The criteria for each of these visas vary, though in all instances, in addition to establishing you meet the basic eligibility criteria, you must establish that there are “compelling reasons” for the grant of the visa.
The Department of Immigration and Border Protection consider the following four factors in assessing whether there are compelling reasons for the grant of a Refugee and Humanitarian Visa.
- The degree of discrimination or persecution to which the applicant is subject in the applicant’s home country.
- The extent of the applicant’s connection with Australia (e.g. family and social connections).
- Whether or not there is any suitable country available, other than Australia, that can provide for the applicant’s settlement and protection.
- The capacity of the Australian community to provide for the permanent settlement of persons such as the applicant in Australia.
The degree of persecution or discrimination is the key criteria, but the other three factors are also given due weight.
Some of these visas require the applicant to be sponsored by an Australian permanent resident or Australian Citizen.
In addition to satisfying the basic eligibility criteria, all applicants must also pass health and character checks.