What Happens When Your Case Goes to VACCU - A Guide to High-Risk Visa Applications
Have you been notified that your application has been flagged as high-risk and referred to the Visa Applicant Character Consideration Unit (VACCU)? If so, you must be wondering what will happen to your visa application and what you can do next to navigate this process.
What is the Visa Applicant Character Consideration Unit (VACCU)?
VACCU is a specialised unit within the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) responsible for assessing visa applications with character issues. A visa application may be referred to VACCU due to previous criminal convictions, associations with criminal activities, or other character concerns that require thorough assessment under Section 501 of the Migration Act 1958.
What is The VACCU Process?
Once referred, VACCU conducts an in-depth assessment of the applicant’s character, reviewing their history, behaviour, and any potential risks they may pose to the Australian community. The case officer’s primary considerations taken into account are the following:
Protection of the Australian community
Family violence is being committed
Strength, nature and duration of ties to Australia
Best interests of minor children in Australia
Expectations of the Australian community
VACCU may delay the visa processing time up to a couple of years. At the same time, VACCU may request additional information or documentation to clarify any concerns while assessing. Once the assessment is completed, your visa matter will be decided. If the case officer determines that the applicant does not meet the character assessment, then the visa application will be refused.
What can I do for My Visa Application in VACCU?
Consider consulting with an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law when navigating VACCU. They can assist in understanding the complexities of the process and provide guidance on how to present your matter effectively. Work together with the immigration lawyer to prepare evidence and character references to build a strong case. Additionally, demonstrate any steps toward rehabilitation to show efforts of improvement.
Related:
What Can I Do if My Visa Application Has Been Referred to VACCU?
Understanding VACCU Referrals: The Risks of Character Records in Visa Applications
What Happens After a VACCU Referral: Possible Outcomes and Next Steps
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
When you matter is referred to VACCU, it signifies potential visa refusals. Engaging with an Immigration Lawyer today at Agape Henry Crux can help explore how to overcome this matter and/or explore alternative visa pathways to meet your visa goals. Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling. You can schedule an appointment with one of our immigration lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
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