Why you should use an Immigration Lawyer

Applying for a visa can be a daunting and complex task. While some applications can be relatively straightforward, such as a holiday visa, others can be very complicated and require an in-depth knowledge of the specific country’s laws and visa processes.

The Migration Act 1958 and Migration Regulations 1994 provide pathways allowing eligible people to migrate to Australia. Identifying the most appropriate pathway and visa type is the first step in preparing a valid visa application. Obtaining professional immigration advice before applying for a visa helps to ensure the most appropriate pathway is chosen and your application is properly made.

Save time and money

By working with an immigration lawyer, you can often save time and money by minimising mistakes to obtain a faster result.

Sometimes small things can have a huge impact on your visa outcome. If you are submitting an application for a visa by yourself or making your application based on what a friend did in their case, you could make a costly mistake. And some mistakes can have terrible consequences, such as a refusal or a considerably lengthy delay.

Form filling is only one aspect of the visa application process. If you don’t meet the requirements set by the visa type you wish to apply for, you may be just filling in applications with no chance of obtaining a visa.

Avoid mistakes and traps

An immigration lawyer understands the precise documents required for your visa type, which will help to minimise mistakes and streamline your application. Providing the Department of Home Affairs with all the forms and supporting documents required is referred to as a decision-ready application. These applications are processed faster without unnecessary delay.

Even a small error in terminology or incorrect interpretation can have a significant effect on the validity of a visa application. It is not the job of the Department to check and assist a visa applicant in their visa application. One error, however small, could leave you with an invalid application which will be returned to you without being considered by the Department, or refused.

It is important to remember that immigration laws and policies change frequently, which can mean that you may meet the requirements for a successful visa application on one day and not be eligible for the same visa the next.

Receive objective assessment

An applicant cannot always be expected to have comprehensive knowledge of particular migration laws, policies or visa processes and requirements. Individual circumstances such as education, age, health, family, character and more are taken into consideration by the Department.

By consulting an expert, you will receive objective visa assessment advice, a tested visa strategy, and clear instructions about what documents are needed. The required material can be forwarded to your immigration lawyer who will prepare your application, lodge it, and follow up with the Department on your behalf.

Skill and strategies

By using an experienced immigration lawyer, you will benefit from in-depth knowledge and strategies based on the professional’s experience working with visa applications, as well as access to legislation databases and resources.

An immigration lawyer can assist you and guide you through the different types of visas that may suit your circumstances and provide you with up-to-date information on immigration requirements and laws.

In addition to providing details of the visa requirements, immigration lawyers can complete the required paperwork on your behalf and lodge the application which can streamline the entire process.

If your circumstances mean that you are unable to obtain the visa you want, an immigration lawyer may be able to provide you with other avenues or bridging visa options that you may wish to consider, which could provide a pathway to obtaining the desired visa at a later time.

Conclusion

Australia’s migration laws and policies are constantly evolving. Getting the right information and advice from the outset can avoid costly mistakes and delays in processing your visa application. Using an experienced immigration lawyer with a sound knowledge and understanding of migration laws and procedures can make a big difference when preparing your visa application.

If you or someone you know wants more information or needs help or advice, please contact us on 07 3281 6644 or email mail@powerlegal.com.au.