Disclaimer: The material in this print-out relates to the law as it applies in the state of Victoria. It is intended as a general guide only. Readers should not act on the basis of any material in this print-out without getting legal advice about their own particular situations. Victoria Legal Aid disclaims any liability howsoever caused to any person in respect of any action taken in reliance on the contents of the publication.

We help Victorians with their legal problems and represent those who need it most. Find legal answers, chat with us online, or call us. You can speak to us in English or ask for an interpreter. You can also find more legal information at www.legalaid.vic.gov.au

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Immigration and migration

Information about different types of visas, becoming an Australian citizen and appealing visa decisions.

Migration, also known as immigration, is when someone comes to Australia from another country:

  • to live permanently
  • to visit temporarily
  • for work or study.

You need a document called a visa to come and stay in Australia from another country, and there are strict rules about visas. If you do not follow the rules, you might not be allowed to stay in Australia.

If you want to migrate to Australia, you must usually apply for a visa before you arrive.

Coming to Australia without a visa

If you arrived in Australia without travel documents, or with false documents, you might be put in detention. You may have to stay in detention until you get a visa or you are removed from Australia.

Get legal advice immediately. Contact our organisation or Refugee Legal for information and advice. See get help.

Ways of migrating to Australia

There are three main ways of migrating to Australia. Family migration, economic migration, or if you are a refugee.

Appealing a visa decision

Information about appealing visa decisions

Mandatory visa cancellations

If you are currently serving a prison sentence and are not an Australian citizen, you may be at risk of having your visa cancelled. Find out more about mandatory visa cancellations, revocation request

Debts owed under the Status Resolution and Support Services program

This information is for people who have been told by Centrelink that they owe money due to an overpayment while receiving financial assistance under the Commonwealth Government’s Status Resolution and

Bridging visas – Code of Behaviour

The Australian Government’s Code of Behaviour is important if you have a Bridging visa E or are getting one.

Other support for immigration and migration

Learn where to get legal help and other support for immigration and migration.

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