Visa cancellation and character
Notices of intention to cancel, character decisions and revocation requests. Respond within the time given.
In force
Who it is for
Visa holders who receive a notice of intention to consider cancellation, or face a character decision.
Main requirements
- Section 109: incorrect information or false documents.
- Section 116: for example, circumstances of grant no longer exist, or visa conditions were not complied with.
- Section 501 character test: for example a substantial criminal record. Mandatory cancellation can follow a substantial criminal record while serving a full-time prison sentence; revocation must be requested within 28 days.
- Cancellation can affect family members and future visas.
Where you apply from
In or outside Australia.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- Respond in time
Respond to the notice within the time given.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent responds within time. - Service agreement
Before any personal advice or preparation, you receive a written service agreement and the OMARA Consumer Guide.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent sets out the work, the fee and the refund policy in writing. No money is taken for visa work before the agreement is signed. - Evidence
Rehabilitation, family and community evidence.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent gathers evidence. - Review
Tribunal review time limits are short.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent lodges review on time; character and criminal matters often also need an Australian legal professional.
Government fees
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| Tribunal review | As set by the Tribunal |
These are fees, not visa application charges. The amounts are shown in the table. Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs Global visa processing times. A guide only, not a promise.
| Processing time | Not published. Home Affairs processing times |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Not responding in time.
- Not addressing the grounds raised.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Response
Recent and upcoming changes
No recent changes are listed for this visa. Check the Home Affairs page for the latest information.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.