top of page
.jpg)
Helping you call Australia home
Your guide to Australian visas and citizenship.
Mandeville Migration Blog
This blog provides legal information and commentary on Australian migration law, including partner visas, protection visas, visa refusals, appeals, Schedule 3, health waivers, new zealand partner visas, employer sponsored visas, resident return visas, and citizenship.


Section 56: Understanding requests for further information in visa applications
This article is also available in Spanish. Navigating the intricate process of visa applications can be daunting, especially when additional documentation or clarification is requested by immigration authorities. One such mechanism employed by the Department of Home Affairs in Australia is a Section 56 request for further information. In this blog post, we'll delve into what Section 56 entails, why it's issued, and how applicants can effectively respond to it. Understanding S

mandevillemigratio
Mar 31, 20242 min read


Police checks for Australian visa applications
This article is also available in Spanish. In the realm of Australian visa applications, one crucial aspect that applicants often encounter is the requirement for police checks. These documents, also known as police clearances or police certificates, play a pivotal role in determining an individual's eligibility for various visas. Let's delve into what these checks entail and how to navigate them effectively. Understanding Police Checks The Department of Home Affairs usually

mandevillemigratio
Mar 27, 20242 min read


Navigating visa refusals in Australia: Understanding section 48
This article is available in Spanish. If you're currently residing in Australia and have faced the unfortunate situation of having your visa application refused, it's essential to understand the implications of Section 48 and how it impacts your options moving forward. Section 48 of the Migration Act 1958 sets limitations on the types of visas individuals can apply for after a refusal while in Australia. Let's delve into what this means and explore the avenues available to na

mandevillemigratio
Mar 24, 20242 min read


Navigating Visa Refusals: Your Guide to Challenging a Decision
This article is also available in Spanish. Receiving a visa refusal can be a devastating setback for anyone with dreams of living, working, or studying in a new country. However, it's crucial to remember that a refusal isn't the end of the road. There's still hope, and that hope lies in challenging the decision. Here's what you need to know about challenging a visa refusal: 1. Act Fast: Time is of the Essence The clock starts ticking the moment you receive your visa refusal l

mandevillemigratio
Mar 22, 20242 min read


What to do when your visa gets refused: Exploring your options
This article is also available in Spanish. So, you've received the dreaded news – your visa application to stay in Australia has been refused. It's a situation that can be incredibly stressful and disheartening, but it's essential to know that all hope is not lost. In fact, you still have several options to explore. Let's break them down: Option a: Return Home This may be a tough pill to swallow, especially if you've built a life in Australia, but it's essential to understand

mandevillemigratio
Mar 21, 20242 min read


Do you have to be Married to Apply for a Partner Visa?
This article is also available in Spanish. One of the common misconceptions surrounding partner visas in Australia is the requirement for marriage. Contrary to popular belief, marriage is not a prerequisite for obtaining a partner visa. Whether you're in a committed de facto relationship or preparing for marriage, there are visa options available to suit your circumstances. De Facto Relationship: If you're in a de facto relationship, you can still apply for a partner visa. Au

mandevillemigratio
Mar 20, 20242 min read


Understanding De Facto Relationships in Australian Migration Law
This article is also available in Spanish. In Australian migration law, the definition of a de facto relationship is important, particularly concerning partner visa applications. It extends beyond mere dating or being in a casual relationship. Defining a De Facto Relationship According to Australian migration law, two individuals are considered to be in a de facto relationship if they meet the following criteria: Mutual Commitment: Both parties must demonstrate a mutual commi

mandevillemigratio
Mar 20, 20242 min read


What is a "Partner"
This article is also available in Spanish. I remember the first time I heard someone talk about their partner. I wasn’t entirely sure what they meant. In Australia the word “partner” usually means either a business partner or a romantic partner. Australian migration law refers to visas for romantic partners as “Partner visas”. They are the same visas regardless of whether or not you are married, although there are some slight differences if you are married. To apply for a vis

mandevillemigratio
Mar 20, 20241 min read


Who is Eligible to Sponsor a Partner Visa in Australia?
This article is also available in Spanish. Sponsorship for a partner visa in Australia is a significant commitment and responsibility. While Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens can typically sponsor their partners, there are certain circumstances where individuals may not be eligible to act as sponsors. Previous Sponsorship: If you have previously sponsored someone for a partner visa within the last five years, you may not be

mandevillemigratio
Mar 20, 20241 min read


Noteworthy fee increases for 2026
This article is also available in Spanish. Every 1 July Australian visa fees increase. Often the changes are not announced until the last minute, and sometimes there are surprises. Here are some of the changes for 1 July 2026. Despite the subclass 485 temporary graduate visa increasing significantly in March 2026, it has still increased again on 1 July 2026. It is now $5,750. The bridging visa B has been increased to $195, however this is only for certain Pacific Island count

mandevillemigratio


Tax time tips for migrants in Australia
This article is also available in Spanish. Tax time is about more than simply lodging your tax return. For many migrants, the information you provide to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) can also become important evidence in future visa applications. Whether you're planning to apply for employer sponsorship, a partner visa, permanent residency or Australian citizenship, getting your tax affairs right now can save you significant problems later. Here are some important tax

mandevillemigratio


How volunteering can help your migration journey in Australia
This article is also available in Spanish. Many migrants focus on finding work, studying, or meeting visa requirements while they are in Australia. However, one activity that is often overlooked is volunteering. Volunteering can provide a range of personal and professional benefits, and in some situations it can even strengthen an immigration case. While volunteering alone will not guarantee a visa outcome, it can help demonstrate your ties to Australia and your contributions

mandevillemigratio
These blog posts are written by a registered migration agent. The content on this page is information only and is not legal or immigration advice. Contact us to find out more about your situation.
bottom of page