KEY POINTS
- Preserve the decision record and notification details immediately.
- Identify which decision was refused and the actual reasons.
- Check review options and current visa status without delay.
Preserve the decision and timeline
Keep the complete decision record, notification email, attachments and evidence of when it was received. Identify whether the decision concerns sponsorship, nomination or the visa, and who the applicant was. Review availability and time limits depend on the decision and circumstances. Obtain advice promptly rather than relying on a deadline quoted for somebody else’s case.
Understand the finding
Separate a missing-document problem from a finding about the genuine position, occupation, salary, experience or credibility. Review what was actually lodged and any Department requests. New evidence may help explain the facts, but its usefulness depends on the issue and the available process. A new application, review and response to an outstanding request are different tasks with different consequences.
Protect the immediate position
Check current visa status, work rights, family circumstances and any application restrictions before deciding what to do next. Continuing to work should not be based solely on an intention to challenge a refusal. Where the employer and worker have linked decisions, coordinate advice so that one step does not overlook the effect of another. No outcome can be promised from the refusal label alone.
Hypothetical example
A nomination is refused because the proposed position is not accepted as genuine. The employer gathers the decision and original evidence while the worker checks their visa position. The next-step assessment addresses the actual reasoning and review options, rather than simply resubmitting the same position description.
Official sources
Information on this website is general information and does not constitute legal advice. Visa requirements and government charges can change. Obtain advice specific to your circumstances.