Visa Refused? Reviews at the ART
What to do after a visa refusal or cancellation: review rights, strict time limits and your other options.
Reviewed by Muskaan Ahuja, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2418455) · Last reviewed
In short: If your visa is refused or cancelled, you may be able to ask the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) to review the decision. The ART replaced the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) on 14 October 2024. Time limits are strict and set out in your decision letter, often 21 days or less, so act immediately.
Who this visa suits
- Applicants whose visa was refused
- Visa holders facing cancellation
- Sponsors whose sponsorship or nomination was refused
| Who reviews | The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) |
|---|---|
| Time limits | Strict; read your decision letter (often 21 days or less) |
| Fee | Set by the ART; a reduced fee may apply in hardship |
| Other options | A new application, ministerial intervention or judicial review |
| While you wait | You may hold a bridging visa, depending on your situation |
Official information: Administrative Review Tribunal. Part of our Services services.
Requirements
The main requirements. We check each one against your situation before you apply.
Within the time limit
Late applications usually cannot be accepted.
Review rights
Your decision letter says if the decision can be reviewed.
Application fee
Paid to the ART, unless a reduction applies.
Your file
Get the decision record and reasons.
New evidence
Address each reason for refusal.
Hearing
Prepare to give evidence and answer questions.
Document checklist
Most applications need the following. Your exact list depends on your circumstances; we give you a personalised checklist.
- The decision letter and reasons
- Your original application and evidence
- New evidence addressing each reason for refusal
- Witness statements, if relevant
- Any medical, financial or relationship updates
Costs
| Visa | Main applicant | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ART migration review application | Check the ART website | A reduced fee may be available in cases of severe financial hardship. |
*Indicative range only. Government visa charges change often (usually each 1 July) and depend on your circumstances and family members. Your total cost may also include our professional service fee and other costs such as health checks, police certificates, skills assessments and translations. Terms and conditions apply. Confirm the current amount for your family in the official Visa Pricing Estimator, or ask us for a fixed written quote before any work starts.
Step by step
- Read the decisionNote the reasons and the time limit.
- Lodge the reviewWithin the time limit, with the fee.
- Get advice and the fileUnderstand exactly what went wrong.
- Prepare submissionsEvidence and legal arguments for each issue.
- HearingAttend and give evidence.
- DecisionThe ART can affirm, change or send it back.
Common mistakes and refusal reasons
- Missing the time limit
- Lodging a new application without checking bars on further applications
- Not addressing every reason in the decision
- Leaving the country when that affects your review rights
Sometimes a fresh application is better than a review. We compare the options for your case. Book a consultation straight away.
Recent changes
14 October 2024: The Administrative Review Tribunal replaced the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
Questions
Can’t see your question? Ask a registered migration agent in a free 15-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow long do I have to apply for review?+
What does the ART cost?+
Can I stay in Australia during the review?+
What if the ART also refuses?+
Talk to us about your refusal.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered migration agent (MARN 2418455).
- Registered migration agentMuskaan Ahuja, MARN 2418455
- Free 15-minute consultationBy phone, online or at our Hawthorn office
- Reply within 1 business dayCall, WhatsApp or the Free Profile Assessment
- Fixed-fee quote in writingBefore any work starts, no hidden charges