Reliable Migration Services You Can Count On

Yes, in some cases you can apply for more than one visa at the same time, but it depends on the type of visas, your current visa status, and the conditions attached to your existing visa. The Department of Home Affairs allows you to hold only one substantive visa at a time; that is, a main visa that gives you the right to stay in Australia (for example, a student visa, work visa, or visitor visa). If you apply for a new visa while you already hold another one, the new visa will generally replace your existing visa, once it is granted.

However, many applicants apply for a second visa while waiting for a decision on their current application. For example:

• A person may apply for a visitor visa while a partner visa is being processed.
• A worker may apply for a 482 visa while still holding a student visa or a training visa.

A bridging visa may also be automatically granted to allow you to remain lawfully in Australia while your new visa application is being assessed. This usually occurs when you apply for certain visa types onshore, while holding a substantive visa or a bridging visa that permits you to lodge another onshore application.

It is important to note that holding or applying for multiple visas can affect your bridging visa conditions, travel rights, and work entitlements, so professional advice is highly recommended before proceeding.

At Gateway Law & Migration Australia (GLMA), we assess your visa options carefully to ensure that each application is strategic, compliant, and does not jeopardise your current or future migration goals.

If your visa application is refused, it means the Department of Home Affairs has determined that you do not meet one or more of the visa criteria set out in the Migration Regulations. The refusal notice you receive will explain the reasons for the decision and outline whether you have a right to review the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

If you applied onshore, you are usually granted a Bridging Visa that allows you to remain lawfully in Australia while you decide whether to appeal the decision. If you applied offshore, you will not normally have a bridging visa and must remain outside Australia unless a new application is made.

You may be able to:

• Apply for a review at the AAT, if you are eligible and within the prescribed timeframe.
• Submit a new visa application, if another visa type is more appropriate for your circumstances (ensuring that, if you are onshore, you are not section 48 barred).
• Request ministerial intervention, in limited cases where your appeal has been refused, you meet the relevant Ministerial Directions for referral, and all other avenues have been exhausted.

It is essential to act quickly, as strict time limits apply for review and appeal rights. At Gateway Law & Migration Australia (GLMA), our migration lawyers can review your refusal decision, identify any legal or factual errors, and advise on the best pathway forward, whether through an appeal, reapplication, or ministerial request.

Applying for an Australian visa can be complex and time-sensitive, involving detailed legislation, strict documentation requirements, and frequent policy updates. Many applicants find that professional guidance helps them avoid costly mistakes, delays, or refusals.

A migration lawyer offers several key advantages:

• Expert knowledge of migration law – Migration lawyers are trained in Australian immigration legislation, regulations, and case law. They understand how to interpret complex policy requirements and apply them correctly to your situation.
• Strategic assessment – A migration lawyer will assess your circumstances to determine the most suitable visa pathway, ensuring your application is structured to meet eligibility and evidentiary requirements.
• Accuracy and compliance – Lawyers prepare and review all documents to ensure they are accurate, complete, and compliant with Department of Home Affairs standards.
• Representation and advocacy – If issues arise, a lawyer can correspond directly with the Department, represent you before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), and prepare submissions or legal arguments on your behalf.
• Peace of mind – With professional guidance, you can be confident your case is being handled correctly from start to finish, reducing stress and uncertainty.

At Gateway Law & Migration Australia (GLMA), our team combines legal expertise with practical experience across all visa types. We focus on achieving the best possible outcome by providing clear advice, strong representation, and ongoing support at every stage of your migration journey.

The processing time for an Australian visa varies depending on the type of visa, the completeness of your application, and the Department of Home Affairs’ Processing times.

Each visa subclass has its own estimated timeframe, which can range from a few weeks to several months. Generally, applications are processed more quickly when all supporting documents, health examinations, police checks, and English test results are submitted upfront. Delays can occur if the Department requests additional information or if background checks take longer than usual.

For example:

• Temporary visas, such as a visitor visa, may take a few weeks.
• Employer-sponsored visas can take several months.
• Skilled, Partner and family visas often take longer due to higher demand and complex eligibility assessments.

At Gateway Law & Migration Australia (GLMA), we prepare and lodge complete, well-documented applications to help minimise processing delays. We also monitor your case and keep you informed of updates or requests from the Department throughout the process.