Why You Need An Immigration Attorney When Applying For Your Partner Visa
Applying for a partner visa could be a nerve-wracking experience. It is for this reason that applicants are advised to seek the services of an immigration lawyer. The article below details how an immigration lawyer can help you when applying for a partner visa.
Qualification Criteria
The immigration lawyer will evaluate whether you qualify for the visa. Most applicants are aware of the age, health and character requirements. However, do you know that your application could be rejected if you have had a previous visa revocation? Additionally, your partner must meet the required standards. For example, they should not have sponsored someone on a similar visa within the last five years. Moreover, they should not have a significant criminal record such as a death sentence or a jail term exceeding two years.
Applicants are required to be honest with their lawyer during the consultation process. It is especially so when the lawyer requests information about your relationship. If you lie about the nature and length of your relationship, the department is bound to find out, and your lawyer will not be in a position to argue out your case since they do not have the facts.
Application Costs and Approval Period
A common challenge experienced by most applicants is understanding the visa application costs and the approval period. Your immigration lawyer will break down these fees to ensure you are well prepared when applying for the visa. Besides, they will manage your expectations regarding the approval time. Typically, the visa takes around 24 months to be processed. If you wish to visit Australia sooner, the attorney will advise you on an alternative visa and ask you to apply for the partner visa while inside the country.
Follow-Ups
Once you make your application, The Department of Home Affairs will make regular follow-ups to seek clarifications or establish the authenticity of the information that you provided. Your immigration attorney will handle this correspondence. It ensures that you do not contradict yourself or offer information that could negatively impact the visa approval. Your immigration lawyer will also prepare and escort you during interviews.
Lodging Appeals
Most applicants do not expect rejection as they apply for the visa. However, this could happen due to a wide range of controllable and uncontrollable circumstances. When this happens, your lawyer will assess the department's reasons. If they do not meet the minimum criteria for visa rejection, the lawyer will appeal their decision hoping that they can get the decision overturned.
As observed, the immigration lawyer is an essential aspect of the partner visa application process. When hiring the lawyer, assess their licensing status, experience and reputation.
