Video chapters
Quick answer
Start with the purpose and duration of your proposed stay, then identify the current visa subclass and read its eligibility and evidence requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website. Visa subclasses and criteria change, so do not rely on the 2016 categories in this recording without checking the current rules.
About this historical recording
This recording is retained because it explains the issue in plain language and forms part of the Go To Court video archive. The current answer, practical steps and official sources on this page take priority wherever legislation, terminology, institutions, deadlines, penalties or service arrangements have changed.
What to do now
- Define the purpose: Record whether the proposed stay is for visiting, work, study, family or permanent residence.
- Choose from current subclasses: Use the Home Affairs visa list and read the page for the exact subclass before applying.
- Build the evidence: Match every criterion to current, accurate and translated supporting documents where required.
- Check before lodging: Review identity details, declarations, dates and deadlines, and get advice if eligibility or prior immigration history is uncertain.
Transcript
The first thing that I would recommend is ensuring that you've picked the right one for you and what that involves is checking to see what the criteria is for that visa and that also means making sure you know what is essential for making a valid application. If your application isn't deemed valid by the department then they will consider that an application hasn't been made and that could mean serious consequences especially if you're applying for a visa a day or two before your current visa expires so that's very important.
The next part is preparing so that requires more research and ensuring that you've got the documents that are required. On the department's website there are lots of tips on what you need to prepare. Each visa subclass has a checklist so it's really important to use those checklists to ensure that you've got everything prepared. Some applications require you to do your health checks before you lodge. Some don't require them until you're requested to do so. The next step is to ensure that you have met the criteria and have given all information that is correct and isn't misleading so you have to check your visa application to make sure that everything that you've put in there including your names, date of birth and your personal information is correct because that can also have serious consequences if that information is deemed to be false or misleading. There are no [historical promotional assurance omitted] for success but the best way to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward in gaining a visa especially when it's permanent residency is to consult with a immigration lawyer.
Current sources
Sources checked 4 September 2026.
Important
This page provides general information only; it is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. The embedded video is a historical recording. Laws, court arrangements, procedures, fees, deadlines and official guidance can change. Check the current sources above and obtain advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.