VACCU Explained: Why Some Visa Refusals Take So Long
For many going through Australia’s immigration system, the Visa Applicant Character Consideration Unit (VACCU) is associated with lengthy processing times and uncertainty. While VACCU’s primary role is to assess character, its involvement often extends the processing duration for visa applications.
What is the Visa Applicant Character Consideration Unit (VACCU)?
VACCU is a specialised unit within the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA). It is responsible for conducting in-depth character assessments of individuals who are applying for an Australian visa. VACCU's purpose is to ensure that individuals meet Australia’s character requirements under Section 501 of the Migration Act 1958, thereby protecting the Australian community from individuals who may pose a risk.
The Role of VACCU in Visa Refusals
When DoHA identifies potential character concerns involving substantial criminal records during the processing of a visa application, the matter may be referred to VACCU. VACCU evaluates to determine if the applicant passes the character test. Here is why VACCU’s involvement often prolongs the refusal process:
VACCU conducts thorough investigations that go beyond basic police checks. This can involve obtaining information from various law enforcement agencies (both domestic and international), reviewing court documents, criminal intelligence, and assessing associations with criminal groups.
The unit must meticulously evaluate the level of risk an individual poses to the Australian community. This involves considering the nature and severity of past offences, the likelihood of re-offending, any evidence of rehabilitation, and the impact of the individual’s presence on public safety and order.
Before a visa can be refused on character grounds, the Department must extend procedural fairness to the visa holder. This involves issuing a Natural Justice (S57) Letter or a Notice of Intention to Consider Refusal (NOICR).
The visa holder is given a strict timeframe to respond, providing reasons why their visa should not be refused. This response often requires complex, technical legislation and supporting evidence, which VACCU must carefully review and consider. Engaged with an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law for professional assistance to address any claims in the response.
Additional documents may be requested from VACCU, leading to back-and-forth communication.
If the visa holder argues that there are compelling reasons why their visa should not be refused (e.g., strong family ties to Australian citizens, best interests of Australian children, humanitarian concerns), VACCU must thoroughly assess these claims against the severity of the character concerns.
Visa refusals on character grounds are high-stakes decisions with potentially life-altering consequences for the individual and their family. Such decisions are often subject to rigorous internal review and external legal challenges (e.g., appeals to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) or judicial review). VACCU must ensure its recommendations are legally sound and defensible.
Related: What are the Common Reasons Leading to a VACCU Referral?
What the Data Shows (Based on FOI Requests)
Processing times for VACCU cases can be extensive. For refusals finalised between 2023 and 2024, the median processing time was 393 days (over 1 year), with 75% of cases taking over 1032 days (almost 3 years), and the longest cases extending beyond 2783 days (over 7.5 years). This data underscores that a VACCU referral for refusal is a long and complex process.
Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.
Related:
What Happens After a VACCU Referral: Possible Outcomes and Next Steps
Facing a Character Test Failure Under Section 501? Why You Need an Accredited Specialist
Visa Options After Character Cancellation – Is There Still Hope?
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
Consider engaging with one of our experienced Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law at Agape Henry Crux. They can assist with your complex visa matter. You can schedule an appointment with Jason Ling or Angela De Silva, our Accredited Specialists, for professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English and Mandarin. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, has been recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards.
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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