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s56 Request
If you’ve received a Section 56 (s56) request from the Department of Home Affairs, don’t panic—but don’t delay either. This letter is your opportunity to provide more information before a decision is made on your visa application. Understanding how to respond correctly can make the difference between a visa grant and a refusal.
A s56 request is a formal letter issued under Section 56 of the Migration Act 1958, asking you to supply additional documents or information to support your visa application.
It usually means your application is under serious consideration, but the Department needs clarification or more evidence to proceed.
Common reasons include:
Identity or document verification
At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we regularly assist clients in preparing strong, compliant responses to s56 letters—ensuring their submissions meet legal standards and significantly improve their chances of success.
Many applicants are granted their visa soon after submitting a strong response to the s56 letter—especially if the issue was minor or easily resolved. However, complex matters may require further assessment or trigger a Section 57 (natural justice) letter before a final decision.
A s56 request is not a refusal—but it’s a warning sign. By acting early and providing a well-prepared submission, you improve your chances of success.
We offer:
Don’t risk your visa due to a rushed or incomplete response.
📞 Call us on 0485 907 989 or book online. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.
An s56 request is a formal letter from the Department of Home Affairs asking for additional documents or information before deciding on your visa application.
Not necessarily. It means your application is under review but needs clarification or supporting evidence. A clear and timely response can lead to a visa grant.
You usually have 28 days to respond. Failing to reply on time can result in your application being refused.
Once submitted, the Department may take several weeks or months to decide. The speed depends on your case complexity and the quality of your response.
Yes. We review your application, assist with gathering strong evidence, and prepare a professional legal response to maximise your chance of approval.
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