Protection visas
Protection visas are for people in need of Australia’s protection, who are assessed as being a refugee, or who face a real risk of suffering significant harm if returned to their home country (and family members of persons who meet this criteria).
If you come from a violent and dangerous country, or have previously faced harm in your home country, this alone does not mean you are eligible for a Protection visa.
You are not eligible for a Protection visa if you can legally enter and reside in another country (apart from your home country), where you would be safe.
Australia must protect you if you are a refugee, or face a real risk of significant harm. Read more about what this means at Australia’s protection obligations.
There could be other visas more suited to you and your situation. Learn about other visas at
Explore visa options.
What happens if your Protection visa application is refused?
If you apply for a Protection visa and it is refused, it is unlikely you will be granted another visa while you are in Australia.
Once you leave Australia, you (and your family) could find it hard to return. Failed protection visa applications are taken into account when deciding visa applications and may negatively affect the outcome.
Your responsibilities when claiming protection
You must clearly explain why you need protection in Australia and provide the Department of Home Affairs with complete and accurate information as soon as possible.
It is up to applicants to provide the details of their claim for protection and supporting evidence before the Department makes a decision.
You are responsible for making sure you apply for the correct visa type and for following your visa conditions, even if you use an Australian registered migration agent.
Registered migration agents are listed on the Department of Home Affairs website. Follow the
Steps to choose a migration agent.
Penalties for false claims
When applying for a Protection visa applicants must sign a declaration.
Giving false or misleading information is a serious offence in Australia and you can face criminal penalties.
A person who provides false or misleading information in a visa application can face significant financial penalties, 10 years in jail or both.
Your visa can be refused or cancelled if you provided false or misleading information.
