Managing a paper-based visa application just became easier for many applicants. The Australian Government has introduced online services for people applying for certain visa subclasses under the Child, Other Family, Former Resident, and New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship categories. However, the initial application must be submitted using a paper form; you can now import your application into ImmiAccount to take advantage of digital tools.
This update is important for applicants who previously had to rely on traditional post or email communications. With these new services, you can enjoy improved access, better document management, and quicker processing support.
What Is the ImmiAccount Update?
Once your paper application is received and acknowledged by the Department of Home Affairs, you can import your application into your ImmiAccount. From there, you will be able to take advantage of several online features that make managing your visa application easier and more convenient.
Key Benefits of Importing a Paper Application
Here are the major advantages:
- Attach additional documents anytime during processing
- Check your application status in real-time
- View all official correspondence in one place
- Update your personal details quickly
- Lodge a Bridging Visa (BV) application if needed
- Submit a visa withdrawal request using the online form
These services not only save time but also reduce the risk of missing important updates.
Who Can Use This Update?
The online services are now available for both new and existing applications for these subclasses:
- Adoption (subclass 102)
- Child (subclass 802)
- Child (subclass 101)
- Dependent Child (subclass 445)
- Orphan Relative (subclass 117 and 837)
Individuals inside Australia can import any paper application, whether it is new or old. For applications submitted outside Australia, only those lodged on or after 1 April 2020 are eligible for the import feature.
Other Family Visas
- Aged Dependent (subclass 114 and 838)
- Remaining Relative (subclass 115 and 835)
- Carer (subclass 116 and 836)
For subclasses 114, 115, and 116, the same rule applies: paper applications from outside Australia must have been lodged on or after 25 June 2020 to use this feature.
Long-Term Resident Visas
- Former Resident (subclass 151)
New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa
- Subclass 461
How to Import Your Application
The Department provides a detailed step-by-step guide on how to import your application via the ImmiAccount. Once imported, you can begin using the new online features immediately.
Need to Withdraw Your Application?
If, for any reason, you are unable to use your ImmiAccount to withdraw your application, you still have the option to do so using the visa withdrawal web form available on the official immigration website.
Book an Appointment with Oracle Immigration Consultants
Whether you are submitting a new application or importing an existing one, Oracle Immigration Consultants is here to help.
Book an appointment with us today and take the stress out of your visa journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I import my paper application immediately after lodging it?
No. You must wait until the Department of Home Affairs acknowledges that your application has been received. After that, you can import it into ImmiAccount.
- What if I applied before the cut-off dates?
Only paper-based applications submitted after 1 April 2020 (for Child visas) and after 25 June 2020 (for Other Family visas) from outside Australia can be imported.
- Is it mandatory to import my paper application?
No, it’s optional. But importing it gives you access to many time-saving features and helps you stay informed.
- Can I use the import feature if I applied outside of Australia?
Yes, but only if your application was lodged after the designated dates mentioned above.
- Is ImmiAccount secure for managing visa applications?
Yes, ImmiAccount is a secure platform provided by the Australian Government for visa management and communication.
