What to Do if Your 866 Protection Visa Is Refused: Pathways to Legally Apply for Other Visas in Australia

Introduction

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(H1) If your Protection Visa Subclass 866 application is refused, there are still several legitimate avenues you can explore to legally stay in Australia. This guide will walk you through the next steps, including appealing the decision and considering alternative visa options.

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Appealing the Decision (H2)

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(H3) If your Protection Visa Subclass 866 application was denied, the first step is to consider appealing the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). It is crucial to consult with an experienced migration lawyer or registered migration agent to understand the appeal process and prepare your case effectively.

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When preparing your appeal, make sure to:

r r r Gather all relevant documentationr Review the reasons for the refusalr Present any new evidence or argumentsr r r

The AAT considers the merits of the case and can provide a fair and just review. If successful, your case may be reconsidered, and the refusal may be overturned.

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Exploring Other Visa Options (H2)

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(H3) If your appeal is unsuccessful, you may want to consider other visa options that match your qualifications and circumstances. There are several types of visas available in Australia, and the eligibility criteria can vary widely. Here are some potential options:

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Skilled Student Visa (subclass 500) (H3)

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(H4) If you have completed your degree and are under 31 years old, or if you are already a student in Australia, you might be eligible for a Skilled Student Visa. This visa allows you to stay in Australia and work while studying or after completing a course.

r r r Criteria: Be a current student or have completed your studies within the last 12 monthsr Requirements: Meet English language requirementsr Renewal: You can renew the visa for a maximum of 18 monthsr r r

Temporary Skilled Work Visa (subclass 482) (H3)

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(H4) If you meet the criteria for a skilled occupation and have formal qualifications, you can apply for a Temporary Skilled Work Visa (subclass 482). This visa permits you to work in Australia for up to four years, with the possibility of renewals, and requires compliance with the Employer Nomination System (ENS). It is essential to obtain a positive skills assessment and meet the English language requirement if your first language is not English.

r r r Criteria: Meet the Australian register of migration (Australian migration service) qualificationsr Requirements: Have a skills assessment, meet English language requirements, and find a willing employerr Duration: Up to four years, renewable based on employer nominationr r r

Family Long-Stay (subclass 444) or Partner Subclass 820/801 (H3)

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(H4) If you are part of a family relationship, you may be eligible for a Family Long-Stay or Partner Subclass 820/801 visa. These visas allow you to stay in Australia for an extended period, provided you have the support of a sponsoring family member.

r r r Criteria: Be a partner or family member of an Australian citizen or permanent residentr Requirements: Meet the relationship criteria and have a sponsorr r r

Temporary Bridging Visa (H2)

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(H3) If you need to remain in Australia while you are exploring these other visa options, you can apply for a Temporary Bridging Visa. This visa allows you to stay in Australia lawfully while you seek another visa or appeal an existing refusal.

r r r Type of Bridging Visa: The type you can apply for may vary, such as BRB1, BRB3, or BRB4.r Purpose: Stay in Australia legally during the visa application processr r r

To apply for a Bridging Visa, you must meet the basic criteria and provide the necessary supporting documents. Once approved, you can use the visa to continue to study, work, or live in Australia legally.

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Seeking Legal Advice (H2)

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(H3) Navigating the complexities of visa refusal and exploration of alternative options can be overwhelming. It is essential to consult with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. A professional can help you understand the legal framework, provide guidance on the application process, and represent you in any official proceedings if necessary.

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Reassessing your situation and exploring legitimate pathways to continue living and working in Australia can provide you with a sense of security and hope. Remember, each step in the process is important, and the assistance of an expert can make a significant difference in achieving your goals.

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