| Review body | The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), which replaced the AAT in October 2024. |
|---|---|
| Time limit | Stated in your decision letter. It depends on the decision type and whether you are in detention. |
| Extensions | The Tribunal cannot extend most migration review time limits. |
| Fee | An application fee applies to most migration reviews. A fee reduction may be available. |
| Who can represent you | A registered migration agent or an Australian lawyer. |
Day 1: read the decision letter carefully
Find three things: the reasons for the refusal, whether you have review rights and the time limit. Note the date you received the letter. Time limits usually run from when you are taken to have received the decision, which may be earlier than you think if it was emailed.
Days 1 to 2: check your visa status
If you applied in Australia, you may hold a bridging visa. Check its conditions in VEVO. A bridging visa may continue while a review is underway, but only if you apply for review on time. If you are not sure whether you are lawful, get advice immediately.
Days 2 to 4: understand your options
- Apply for review at the ART, if you have review rights.
- Lodge a new visa application, if you are eligible. In Australia, section 48 of the Migration Act may limit which visas you can apply for after a refusal.
- In some cases, leave Australia and apply from overseas. Consider the effect on future applications first.
Days 3 to 7: prepare and lodge
- Gather the decision letter, your application and all documents you gave Home Affairs.
- Identify what was missing or not accepted, and start collecting evidence to address it.
- Lodge the review application with the ART before the deadline, with the fee or a fee reduction request.
- Keep copies of everything and note any hearing dates.
What happens at the review
The ART looks at the decision again on its merits. You can provide new information and evidence, and you are usually invited to a hearing. The Tribunal can affirm the decision, set it aside and make a new decision, or send it back to Home Affairs to decide again.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to appeal a visa refusal?
It depends on the decision and whether you are in detention. Your decision letter states the time limit. For many decisions it is a matter of days or weeks, and the Tribunal cannot extend it, so act immediately.
Can I stay in Australia while my review is decided?
If you hold a bridging visa connected to your application and apply for review on time, it usually continues until the review is finished. We can confirm this for your situation.
Is a new application better than a review?
It depends on why you were refused and whether you are eligible for another visa. Sometimes a new, stronger application is faster. Sometimes review is the only option.
Can I get the review fee reduced?
From 1 July 2026, the ART fee to review a migration decision is $3,727. A 50% reduction may be granted on financial hardship grounds. If the review is successful, part of the fee may be refunded.
Official sources
Updated October 2026. Visa rules, fees and processing times change often, so always check the official sources before you act.