The Australian Protection Visa: Eligibility And Application
The Australian protection visa provides permanent asylum to people who fear persecution in their home countries due to their gender, religion, sexual orientation or political views. Read this article to learn more about the visa.
Eligibility
People that wish to apply for the visa must have legally entered the country. Also, they must meet the country's identity requirements. Typically, the immigration department will conduct some background research to determine the authenticity of your identification documents. Your application will be rejected if you present fake documents. Applicants must also meet the health and character requirements set by the immigration department.
People that have had a previous visa cancellation and those that hold a temporary protection or safe haven visa cannot apply for the subclass 866 visa. Additionally, you cannot apply for this visa if you have received asylum from a third country.
Application Criteria
Applicants are required to write a statement for protection visa application. This is a document describing the reasons why you fear persecution in your home country. Other than your personal and family details, you are required to explain the following:
- How did you leave your country? For instance, did you have to give bribes? How did you acquire an Australian visa?
- What specific threats do you face? Give in-depth details of any incidents that led you to believe that your life is under threat. Provide names, places and any other information that will prove your case.
- Can you visit other countries? If yes, can they guarantee your protection?
- How can you avoid the threats? For example, is it possible to modify your behaviour?
The department will review your application to know whether you qualify for the visa. If you do, they will invite you for an interview. The department will provide an interpreter if you are not fluent in English. At the interview, you may be asked questions that are similar to those in the statement for protection visa application. Your answers must be consistent. Otherwise, you could be accused of lying.
An immigration attorney can significantly increase the chances of a successful application. He or she will organise your documents and guide you as you fill in the application. Additionally, the lawyer will escort you to the interview. He or she will seek clarification from the interviewer to ensure you provide correct answers.
Once your application is approved, you can enjoy the privileges of an Australian permanent resident. You can also apply for Australian citizenship.