Training (Subclass 407) Visa Higher Refusal Rates: Processing Rules and Timelines
The Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) has recently clarified how it processes the Training Visa (Subclass 407), following a massive spike in nominations and visa refusals.
Recent data reveals that the Training (SC407) visa is being heavily assessed, resulting in a high refusal rate. Out of approximately 8,000 nominations finalised since July 2026, 6,500 have been refused because they failed to meet eligibility requirements. With thousands of associated visa applications now sitting in the balance, the Department has outlined exactly how it will handle visas attached to refused nominations.
What Happens When a Subclass 407 Nomination is Refused?
A Subclass 407 visa cannot be granted without an approved and current nomination. If the employer's nomination is refused, the associated visa application is at risk. DoHA handles these visa applications in two ways, depending on whether there are concerns about the applicant's Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria:
Section 57 (S57) Natural Justice Letter (28 days)
If the nomination is refused, but the Department has no specific concerns regarding the applicant's GTE status, the Department will issue a S57 Natural Justice letter. This letter officially notifies the applicant that their visa is being considered for refusal because they no longer have a valid nomination or they do not meet an eligibility requirement such as character or health.
Applicant with GTE Concerns (14 days)
If the nomination is refused and the case officer also determines that the applicant does not satisfy the GTE requirement, the process can differ. The Department can refuse the visa on GTE grounds without issuing an S57 letter. However, the Department allow a 14-day window following the nomination refusal before officially refusing the visa application. This 14-day grace period gives applicants a brief window to consider their legal options. Speak with AHC Lawyers for tailored professional guidance specific to your circumstances.
Related: When to Engage an Immigration Lawyer: Benefits, Timing, and What to Expect
Department’s Current Backlogs and What to Expect
The Department expects high volumes of refusals to continue in the coming weeks and months. Currently, approximately 2,500 visa applications are awaiting a decision where an S57 letter has already been issued, and another 4,000 applications are in the queue where the nomination has been refused, but the visa application has not yet progressed.
What Are Your Next Steps if Your SC407 is Affected?
If you are an applicant or sponsor in the Subclass 407 visa program, you must closely monitor the status of the nomination. If a nomination is refused, time is of the essence. You typically have only 14 to 28 days to take action before the visa application is also refused. Depending on your circumstances, your options within this timeframe may include:
Promptly lodging a new nomination application to attach to the pending visa.
Withdrawing the visa application entirely to avoid a visa refusal on your immigration record, which can trigger complications like the Section 48 (S48) Bar for onshore applicants.
Exploring alternative visa pathways.
Given the refusal rate of over 80% for recent nominations, employers and applicants should ensure their initial applications are flawlessly prepared to meet all training plan and GTE requirements.
Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.
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How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
With the current high refusal rate for the Training (SC407) Visa, handling it on your own without professional help can be risky. Engage with one of our immigration lawyers with in-depth technical knowledge to assist with a tailored legal submission supported by the law and case studies specifically to your matter. At Agape Henry Crux, we specialise in complex health cases and have assisted many clients to secure their future in Australia. Consider speaking with one of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, Jason Ling or Angela De Silva, as they are experts in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule an appointment with us to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English and Mandarin. We can also help you arrange an interpreter if this isn't your language.
Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, is recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™ and the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards and in the 2027 edition of The Best Law Firms™ - Australia.
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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