Applicants who have provided false or misleading information on their visa applications in the past 10 years will be barred from being granted an Australian visa under new immigration legislation coming into effect on 18 November. The new rules are a significant change from current legislation, which only bars individuals who have provided false or misleading information on their visa applications in the last 12 months.
The Department advised that under the current legislation, applicants who are ‘notified’ that they have provided false or misleading information could withdraw their visa and apply again after a 12 month period. The new legislation will prevent this from occurring by barring such applicants from re-applying for an Australian visa for a further 10 years.
The new rules are designed to protect the integrity of Australia’s visa framework, however there are concerns that applicants who mistakenly provide incorrect information could be banned from visiting or living in Australia. The Immigration Department says its officers will have full discretion over whether a visa applicant has deliberately submitted incorrect information.
Registered Migration Agent, Sheila Woods says the Australian visa process can be complex and there is a lot of room for error. She explains,
“It’s very easy for people applying for their own visa to misinterpret Departmental requests for further information or provide potentially misleading statements without fully understanding the consequences.”
“Not being able to enter Australia again for 10 years is a significant risk – especially if you have family or work commitments here. It’s important to understand everything that is being required of you by the Department and get professional assistance when it comes to migrating.”
Stay updated on other recent migration news, such as the proposed changes to citizenship legislation, or find out if you are eligible for an Australian visa with our free visa assessment.
Source:
Registered Migration Agent, Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879)
