As a law firm, we receive quite a lot of enquiries from visa applicants who have either failed to declare important information about themselves in previous applications, or who have provided conflicting information. We cannot stress enough the importance of consistency when dealing with the Department of Home Affairs.
The integrity of the information you provide can be brought into question at any stage of your migration journey, and so it is important to provide complete and accurate information in each application you submit.
If there are inconsistencies in the information provided you must immediately write to the Department and provide a convincing explanation for why this is the case.
Consequences of giving incorrect information
The Department routinely conducts checks to verify that the information provided in a visa application is consistent with information provided in previous visa applications.
This can lead to an application being refused, cancelled, or in some cases, the applicant can be banned from making subsequent applications for a specified time.
Examples of conflicting information
- Failing to declare the existence of a character or health issue in a previous application, which is later disclosed in a police clearance or health examination.
- Failing to declare previous visa refusals.
- Inconsistent information relating to employment, such as new information contained in employment reference letters which was not previously disclosed.
- Failing to declare a relationship.
How to avoid giving conflicting information
Applicants should keep copies of all lodged applications, including supporting documents, and refer to these when making future applications.
What to do if an issue arises
If you have concerns about the information that you previously provided in a visa application, seek professional advice from a Migration Lawyer. Crystal Migration can help to determine whether it is possible to explain the conflicting information. In most instances, it is possible to provide an explanation through a detailed submission.
We offer consultations to individuals needing prompt advice on this type of issue – please book an appointment with us.