Common questions and answers

Many people can make their own application. Legal advice may be useful where the pathway, evidence, immigration history or timing is complex, or where you want help assessing risks and preparing the application.

That depends on your objectives, circumstances, immigration history and the requirements in force at the time. We can assess potential pathways and explain the issues that may affect your options.

No. A lawyer can assess the issues, explain risks and prepare or present a matter carefully, but the decision is made by the relevant authority and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Yes. Jade Immigration Lawyers advises clients in Australia and overseas. Consultations and ongoing work can usually be conducted remotely, subject to the needs of the matter.

We discuss your circumstances, objectives, immigration history and key documents, then identify the issues, available options and practical next steps that can be addressed within the consultation.

Useful starting documents often include identity records, current visa details, relevant applications or decisions, important correspondence and a short chronology. The documents requested will depend on your matter.

If we agree to act, we will confirm the scope, fees, responsibilities and next steps in writing before work begins. We may then request further documents and information for the agreed work.

The written costs agreement sets out the exact scope. Depending on the engagement, the service may include advice, strategy, document review, preparation of submissions and correspondence with relevant authorities.

Your engagement documents will identify the lawyer responsible for your matter and the main contact arrangements. We will explain how material updates, requests and decisions will be communicated.

Sometimes. We first need to review the current status, any deadlines, the available records and the work already completed before confirming whether we can act and on what scope.

Processing times vary by visa type, programme settings, the completeness and complexity of the application, requests for further information and other factors. Published processing times are a guide, not a guarantee for an individual application.

The required evidence depends on the visa pathway and your circumstances. Once the matter is assessed, we can provide a tailored list and identify any gaps, inconsistencies or documents requiring explanation.

That depends on your current visa, any bridging visa, its conditions, the application type and your travel plans. Check your status and obtain advice before leaving Australia if the position is uncertain.

Read the decision letter and any review-rights information immediately. Time limits can be strict and depend on the decision and notification circumstances, so prompt advice is often important.

We may be able to assist, depending on the stage of the matter and the time available. Send us the notice and stated deadline promptly so the issues and response options can be assessed.

Yes. Time limits can be strict and depend on the decision, review pathway and notification circumstances. Check the decision letter and obtain advice immediately rather than assuming that an extension is available.

Seek advice urgently. The available steps depend on your current status, visa conditions, immigration history and timing. Do not assume that a new application will automatically allow you to remain or travel.

The proposed scope, professional fees and likely disbursements are confirmed in writing before work begins. If the scope changes or additional work is required, we will discuss the related costs.

We handle client information in accordance with professional confidentiality and privacy obligations. The engagement terms and privacy information explain how information may be used or disclosed where authorised or required by law.

No. Website resources are general information and do not take account of your complete facts, objectives, evidence or the law at the time advice is required. Obtain advice tailored to your circumstances where needed.