Visa refusals and appeals
Understanding refusal notices, review deadlines, and realistic next steps.
Overview
What this guide covers
A visa refusal is not always the end of your migration journey. Options depend on the refusal reasons and whether review rights apply.
Merits review at the Administrative Review Tribunal (AAT) may be available for certain decisions within strict time limits.
Reapplication may be appropriate when evidence gaps can be addressed — but not all refusals should be immediately relodged.
Audience
Who this guide is for
Applicants who received a visa refusal
People considering AAT review
Applicants with s48 bar or no-review-rights refusals
Key information
At a glance
Read the refusal notice carefully — it states reasons and whether review rights apply
AAT application deadlines are strict — often 21 or 28 days from notification
Judicial review is different from merits review and applies in limited circumstances
Reapplication without addressing refusal reasons often leads to another refusal
Professional advice helps you choose between review, new application, or alternative pathways
Understanding your refusal notice
The notice explains which criteria were not met and cites relevant law and policy.
Identify whether the issue was eligibility, evidence, genuineness, or procedural.
Your immigration history — including this refusal — affects future applications.
Your options
AAT merits review: A tribunal member reconsiders the decision on the facts. New evidence may be submitted within rules.
Reapplication: Viable when circumstances change or evidence can be substantially improved — not a quick fix.
Alternative pathways: Another visa subclass may suit if the refused pathway is no longer realistic.
Ministerial intervention: Exceptional circumstances only — not a standard next step.
Avoid delays
Common mistakes
Issues we see often — and how structured preparation helps avoid them.
Missing review deadlines
Late AAT applications are generally not accepted.
Relodging identical applications
Without change, a second refusal is likely and may harm credibility.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Services
Related visa services
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Related resources
Received a refusal notice?
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