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PIC 4004 Government Debt
If you or any family member owes money to the Australian Government and haven’t paid it back — or haven’t made formal arrangements to do so — your visa application may be refused under Public Interest Criterion (PIC) 4004.
This includes debts such as:
Fortunately, PIC 4004 is not a permanent ban. You can still be granted a visa if the debt is repaid or if you enter a formal repayment agreement. In this guide, we explain when PIC 4004 applies, what types of debt are included, and how you can fix the issue before it becomes a barrier to your Australian visa.
Public Interest Criterion 4004 (PIC 4004) allows the Department of Home Affairs to refuse a visa if the applicant, or any member of their family unit (whether applying or not), owes money to the Australian Government — and has not arranged to repay it.
In other words, if you owe any public money and haven’t addressed it, your visa can be refused under PIC 4004 — even if everything else in your application is perfect.
PIC 4004 applies regardless of visa type — including visitor, student, skilled, partner, protection, and employer-sponsored visas.
It may apply if:
Even if the debt is not directly linked to the current visa, it can trigger a refusal.
PIC 4004 is not automatic. You may still qualify for a visa if the debt is paid or a formal repayment plan is accepted by the relevant authority.
Steps you can take:
We strongly recommend resolving this before lodging your visa to avoid unnecessary delays or refusals.
At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we assist clients who:
We’ll guide you through every step with confidentiality and care.
Speak with Jade Immigration Lawyers today – we’re here to help you.
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Find answers to common questions about our Public Interest Criteria (PIC) services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us.
Any money owed to a Commonwealth, state, or territory government — including removal costs, hospital fees, or Centrelink overpayments.
Yes, if you repay the debt or enter a formal repayment arrangement before your visa is decided.
Yes, even if the family member is not applying for the visa.
Usually yes, as long as the arrangement is formal and confirmed in writing.
Your visa may be refused or cancelled, and you may face difficulties applying again.