appeal a visa refusal or cancellation
Administrative Review Tribunal
Get a second chance by applying for a review of your visa decision through the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).
Administrative Review Tribunal
The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) is an independent body that reviews decisions made by the Department of Home Affairs, including visa refusals and cancellations.
This process is for individuals who have received an unfavourable decision and may have the right to request a review. The ART ensures that migration decisions are fair and legally correct by reassessing cases based on evidence and applicable laws.
REVIEW PATHWAYS
Understanding Your Appeal Options
Former AAT (Administrative Appeals Tribunal)
- The ART has replaced the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)
- Many applicants still refer to appeals as “AAT appeals”
- All review applications are now handled by the ART
Merits Review
ART Review
What it is:
A reassessment of your visa application based on facts and law
Key Benefit:
Opportunity to present new evidence and correct issues
Best for:
Applicants with review rights after refusal or cancellation
IS THIS VISA RIGHT FOR YOU?
Who Can Apply
Basic Eligibility Profile
- Received a visa refusal or cancellation decision
- Granted review rights in your decision letter
- Apply within the specified deadline
- Meet application requirements
Common Applicant Types:
- Visa applicants refused by the Department
- Visa holders facing cancellation
- Sponsors affected by visa decisions
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?
Basic Requirements
Core Requirements
- Valid review rights stated in decision letter
- Application lodged within strict time limits
- Payment of applicable tribunal fees
- Submission of supporting documents
Supporting Documents (Examples)
- Refusal or cancellation decision letter
- Visa application documents
- New or updated evidence
- Personal statements
Special Conditions to Note
- Strict deadlines (often 7–28 days depending on case)
- Some decisions are not reviewable
- New evidence can be critical to success
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS
How it Works
Step 1
review decision letter
Confirm if you have review rights and deadline
Step 2
prepare your case
Identify issues and gather supporting evidence
Step 3
Lodge ART application
Submit review application within the deadline
Step 4
case assessment
Tribunal reviews your application
Step 5
Hearing (if required)
Present your case and respond to questions
Step 6
decision outcome
Receive a decision—affirmed, varied, or remitted
Time & Costs
Processing Timeframes
Processing times vary depending on case complexity and tribunal workload.
Government Fees
A tribunal application fee applies, with possible partial refunds if successful.
Additional Costs to Consider
Legal or professional representation
Document preparation
Expert reports (if needed)
GET IN TOUCH
Ready to start your migration journey?
Complete the form and our team will get in touch with you as soon as possible to assist with your enquiry. We’re here to provide clear guidance, answer your questions, and help you understand your options every step of the way. All initial consultations are completely obligation-free, giving you the confidence to explore your next steps with no pressure.