Why you should use an Immigration Lawyer
Why you should use an Immigration Lawyer
Applying for a visa can be a daunting and anxiety-provoking task. Though applying for some visas can be relatively straight forward, such as a holiday visa, other visa applications can be very complicated and require an in-depth knowledge of the specific country’s laws and visa processes.
Obtaining professional immigration advice before applying for a visa helps to ensure the most appropriate pathway is chosen, and a decision-ready application is made. This may limit assessment and processing times; key factors that are sometimes the cause of unnecessary anxiety.
Save time and money
By working with an immigration lawyer, you can save time and money by minimising mistakes to obtain a faster result.
Sometimes small things can have a huge impact on your visa outcome. If you are submitting an application for a visa by yourself or making your application with reference to what you have read or what a friend has told you, there is a high chance that you will make a mistake. Some mistakes can have terrible consequences, such as a refusal or a considerably lengthy delay and this should be avoided at all costs.
Australia has its own legislation and policy for immigration. This determines the complexity and depth of information required to ascertain if an applicant reaches the minimum set of requirements; and ultimately if a visa application is successful.
Form filling is only one aspect of the visa application process. If you don’t meet the requirements set by the visa type you wish to apply for, you may be just filling in applications with no chance of obtaining a visa. This is where expert immigration advice is so valuable.
Avoid mistakes and traps
An immigration lawyer understands the precise documents required for your visa type, which will help to minimise mistakes and prepare a decision-ready application. Main documents, supporting documents, correctly-filed forms, required evidence and an accurate and easy-to-read supporting submission (where appropriate), all aid the Department of Home Affairs (previously Department of Immigration and Border Protection) to process visa and citizenship applications faster and without unnecessary delay.
You should be aware that even a small error in terminology or incorrect interpretation can have a significant effect on the validity of a visa application. Remember it is not the job of the Department to check and assist a visa applicant with their visa application. One error, however small, could leave you with an invalid application (which will be simply returned to you as it will not be even considered by the Department) or the visa being refused. This can be catastrophic and may even hinder you applying for a further, or alternative, type of visa.
It is important to remember that immigration laws and policies change frequently, which can mean that you may meet the requirements for a successful visa application one day, and not be eligible for the same visa the next.
Receive objective assessment
An applicant cannot always be expected to have the knowledge of particular migration laws, policy or visa processes and requirements.
Individual circumstances such as education, age, health, family, criminal record and more are taken into consideration by the Department, particularly with permanent resident visas.
By consulting an expert immigration lawyer, you will receive objective visa assessment advice, a tested visa strategy that is straightforward, and clear instructions about what documents are needed. The required material can be forwarded to your immigration lawyer who will assess the documents and prepare and lodge your application. They will even manage the progress of the application with the Department on your behalf and remember lawyers are bound by client-solicitor confidentiality.
Skill and Strategies
By using an experienced immigration lawyer, you will benefit from in-depth knowledge and strategies based on the professional’s experience working with visa applications; as well as access to legislation databases and resources.
An immigration lawyer is able to assist you and guide you through the different types of visas that may suit your circumstances and provide you with up to date information on immigration requirements and laws.
If your circumstances mean that you are unable to obtain the visa you want, or if an application has been refused, an immigration lawyer may be able to provide you with other avenues; such as an appeal or tribunal; perhaps even other visa options that may provide an alternative pathway to obtaining the visa you originally wanted.
Fees are usually determined based on the type of visa and the depth of services required for such assistance.
Conclusion
All lawyers offering immigration services must be registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA). In addition to their legal qualifications, they are also required to have sound knowledge and understanding of immigration legislation and policies. Lawyers must abide by a very strict code of conduct when dealing with their clients and the Department of Home Affairs.
If you or someone you know wants more information or needs help or advice, please contact Brett Slater Solicitors on 02 9299 5815 or email [email protected]
