Migration Review Tribunal (MRT) & Appeals
Visa refusals, cancellations, reviews, or appeals are part of Australia’s immigration process. Despite best efforts, visas can sometimes be declined due to eligibility issues, missing documents, or limited quota availability. To safeguard applicants’ rights, the Migration Review Tribunal (MRT)—a government-authorized body—reviews immigration decisions made by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).
The MRT provides applicants with a fair chance to appeal visa refusals or cancellations and seek an impartial immigration decision.
Advantages of MRT & Appeal
- A fair and independent review of your visa refusal or cancellation
- An opportunity to present new evidence and strengthen your case
- A second chance at securing your visa or sponsorship approval
- Legal protection against incorrect or unfair immigration decisions
- Professional guidance to improve your chances of success
Who Can Apply for an MRT Review?
- Your visa application was refused in Australia by the Immigration Department
- Your visa was cancelled while you were in Australia (except automatic cancellations such as student visas cancelled on character grounds)
- Your request for cancellation revocation was refused
- You sponsored or nominated another person’s visa, and it was refused on sponsorship/nomination grounds
- You were refused a Subclass 309/310 visa overseas, or Subclass 100/110 visa in Australia, provided you apply while still in Australia
- Your Standard Business Sponsor or Pre-qualified Business Sponsor application was declined or not renewed
- Your approval as a business sponsor was cancelled under Section 137B of the Migration Act 1958
- You are in immigration detention due to a bridging visa refusal or cancellation
- Your employer’s nominated position was rejected
- Your visa was refused due to security compliance conditions
- Your organization’s application for approval as a professional development sponsor was refused or cancelled
Exclusions – When MRT Does Not Apply
- Visa cancellations made while the person was outside Australia
- Refusals or cancellations on character grounds
- Protection visa applications (these are handled by the Refugee Review Tribunal – RRT)
Application Process – MRT & Appeals
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Check Eligibility
- Confirm your case falls under MRT’s jurisdiction.
- Review the time limit for lodging an appeal (strict deadlines apply).
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Lodge Your Appeal
- File your application for review with MRT before the deadline.
- Pay the prescribed application fee.
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Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather:
- Visa refusal or cancellation notice
- Sponsorship/nomination details (if applicable)
- Evidence supporting your eligibility (work history, education, financials, etc.)
- Legal or expert opinions, if available
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Attend Hearing (if required)
- MRT may invite you for an interview or hearing.
- Present your case, clarify details, and provide additional evidence.
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Receive Decision
- MRT reviews your case independently.
- A new immigration decision will be issued—either upholding or overturning DIAC’s decision.
Why Choose Apical Immigration Experts?
At Apical Immigration Experts, we understand how stressful a visa refusal or cancellation can be. Our dedicated team provides:
- Expert Guidance – Specialized advice on appealing refusals and cancellations
- Case Preparation – Strong documentation and evidence building for MRT hearings
- Deadline Compliance – Ensuring appeals are filed within strict timelines
- Tailored Strategies – Custom solutions based on your visa category and case complexity
- Full Representation – End-to-end assistance during review, hearings, and final decision
FAQs – MRT & Appeals
The MRT is an independent body that reviews visa refusals and cancellations made by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.
Appeal deadlines are strict and usually range from 7 to 28 days, depending on the case type.
Yes, in most cases, you may be granted a bridging visa to remain in Australia until the MRT decision is finalized.
Yes. If your appeal is successful, MRT can set aside DIAC’s decision and grant your visa.
It’s not mandatory, but professional assistance significantly increases your chances of success, as appeals require strong documentation and legal arguments.
Sumit Katyal
