If you’ve submitted a paper-based child or family visa application, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced an important update. A new online feature is now available to simplify the application process.

Applicants and Registered Migration Agents (RMAs) can now import paper visa applications into ImmiAccount. This enhancement makes it easier to manage visa applications by allowing users to upload documents, monitor application progress, and access correspondence online.

This long-awaited functionality enables you to link your paper application to your ImmiAccount, giving you a more efficient way to track progress, submit documents, and manage your visa application.

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What’s New?

Relevant Visa Types

The new online import feature is available for several Child, Other Family, and Long-Term Resident visa subclasses. Both new and existing paper applications can be imported into ImmiAccount.

Child and Dependent Visas

  • Child visa (subclass 101, 802)
  • Adoption visa (subclass 102)
  • Dependent Child visa (subclass 445)
  • Orphan Relative visa (subclass 117, 837)

Other Family Visas

  • Aged Dependent visa (subclass 114, 838)
  • Remaining Relative visa (subclass 115, 835)
  • Carer visa (subclass 116, 836)

Long-Term Resident & Other

  • New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461)
  • Former Resident visa (subclass 151)

While these visas must still be submitted in paper form, once acknowledged by the Department, you can link them to ImmiAccount to manage your application online.

Must Read: ImmiAccount Update Now: Simplify Your Parent Visa Journey

Benefits of Linking Your Paper Visa Application

Once imported, you gain access to a variety of online services, including:

  • Uploading additional supporting documents
  • Viewing messages and correspondence from the Department
  • Updating personal information such as contact details or passport information
  • Checking the status of your application
  • Lodging Bridging Visa applications (if eligible)
  • Withdrawing the application online, if necessary

By importing paper applications, you can manage your visa more efficiently and streamline the process.

Exceptions: Paper Applications That Cannot Be Imported

This feature is not available for older applications lodged outside Australia before specific dates:

  • Child (101), Adoption (102), Orphan Relative (117) visas lodged before 1 April 2020
  • Aged Dependent (114), Remaining Relative (115), Carer (116) visas lodged before 25 June 2020
  • Parent visa applications (including subclass 103) lodged before November 2018

Only applications that the Department has acknowledged or for which you have a receipt can be imported. This includes parent visa applications.

Step-by-Step: How to Import Your Paper Application

Once you receive your acknowledgment and reference number, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your ImmiAccount or create a new account.

  2. Go to the “Import Application” section.

  3. Enter the details requested:

    • Application ID

    • Date of birth

    • Identity document number (passport, ImmiCard, or Titre de Voyage)

After you complete these steps, your paper application will connect to your ImmiAccount. This gives you easy access to updates, documents, and correspondence.

Why Importing Your Application Makes the Process Easier

Importing your application has several advantages. For example, you get faster updates, clearer visibility of your application progress, and the convenience of uploading documents anytime. This is especially helpful for longer-processing visas like Child, Carer, and Remaining Relative visas.

With this feature, both applicants and RMAs can handle applications more confidently and efficiently.

Need Help Importing Your Paper Application?

Via Migration supports clients throughout the visa process. Whether you lodged a Child, Family, or Long-Term Resident visa, our team can help you connect your paper application to ImmiAccount with step-by-step guidance.

Book a consultation and we’ll guide you through each step of the process.