Frequently Asked Questions About Australian Immigration

Common Immigration Questions Answered

At Sellanes Clark Immigration Law Specialists, we understand that navigating Australian immigration law can be confusing. Below are answers to the most common questions we receive from clients. For advice specific to your situation, contact our experienced team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services do your migration agents provide?

Our immigration law specialists provide comprehensive assistance across all Australian visa categories, including:

We handle everything from initial eligibility assessments through to visa grants, appeals, and citizenship applications.

We provide end-to-end immigration assistance: assessing your eligibility, recommending the most appropriate visa pathway, preparing and lodging your application, liaising with the Department of Home Affairs, managing your case through to decision, and representing you in appeals if necessary. Our goal is to give your application the strongest possible chance of success.

With Carlos Sellanes’ unique background of 20+ years working inside Australia’s Department of Immigration, we understand exactly how visa officers assess applications and what evidence carries the most weight—giving you a significant advantage.

A visa refusal or cancellation isn’t necessarily the end of your immigration journey. Depending on your circumstances, options may include:

Time is often critical after a refusal or cancellation. Contact us immediately on 1300 99 88 88 if your visa has been refused or cancelled so we can advise on your options and any time limits that apply.
Can I apply for permanent residency?

Generally, you can apply for Australian citizenship by conferral if you:

Additional requirements apply for citizenship by descent or in special circumstances. Our immigration law specialists can assess your specific eligibility and guide you through the citizenship application process. We’ve successfully processed citizenship applications in as little as 4 months.

We provide end-to-end immigration assistance: assessing your eligibility, recommending the most appropriate visa pathway, preparing and lodging your application, liaising with the Department of Home Affairs, managing your case through to decision, and representing you in appeals if necessary. Our goal is to give your application the strongest possible chance of success.

With Carlos Sellanes’ unique background of 20+ years working inside Australia’s Department of Immigration, we understand exactly how visa officers assess applications and what evidence carries the most weight—giving you a significant advantage.

When can I apply for Australian citizenship?

There are multiple pathways to Australian permanent residency, depending on your circumstances:

Eligibility depends on factors including your age, qualifications, work experience, English language ability, family relationships, and financial capacity. Book a consultation with our immigration lawyers to discuss your specific situation and available options: 1300 99 88 88.

Age requirements vary by visa type:

If you’re over the age limit for one visa pathway, alternative options may be available. Our immigration law specialists can identify suitable pathways regardless of your age.

What happens to my work visa if my employment is terminated?

The impact of employment termination depends on your visa type:

  • Find a new sponsor
  • Apply for a different visa
  • Leave Australia

If you face employment termination while on an employer-sponsored visa, contact us immediately on 1300 99 88 88. We can advise on your options and help you navigate the transition quickly to protect your visa status.

What is the Global Talent Independent Visa?

The Global Talent Independent (GTI) program is a priority visa pathway offering fast-tracked permanent residency for highly skilled professionals in target sectors:

  • AgTech
  • Space and Advanced Manufacturing
  • FinTech
  • Energy and Mining Technology
  • MedTech
  • Cyber Security
  • Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science and ICT
  • Resources
  • Permanent residency outcome
    Priority processing
  • No age limit (though you must meet income threshold)
  • Family members can be included
  • No points test required
  • Requires nomination from eligible Australian organization or individua
  • Internationally recognized record of exceptional achievement
  • Currently prominent in your field
  • Able to attract a salary meeting the fair work high income threshold (currently $167,500)
  • Will be an asset to Australia in your field


Our immigration lawyers have successfully assisted numerous GTI applicants. The application process is highly competitive and requires strategic presentation of your achievements and potential contribution to Australia. Contact us for an eligibility assessment: 1300 99 88 88.

Partner visas allow Australian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse or de facto partner to live in Australia. There are two main categories:

  • Applied for while in Australia
  • Subclass 820 is the temporary visa
  • Subclass 801 is the permanent visa (usually granted after 2 years)
  • Applied for while outside Australia
  • Subclass 309 is the temporary visa
  • Subclass 100 is the permanent visa (usually granted after 2 years)
  • Your partner must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
  • You must be married or in a genuine de facto relationship (minimum 12 months, with some exceptions)
  • You must provide extensive evidence of your genuine and continuing relationship
  • Both partners must meet character and health requirements


We’ve achieved remarkable success with partner visa applications, including approvals in as little as 3 months. Our team helps you compile compelling evidence and present your relationship in the most favorable light.

Skilled migration visas (subclass 189, 190, 491) are points-tested visas requiring:

  • Nominated occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
  • Positive skills assessment for your occupation
  • Competent English language ability (IELTS 6.0 equivalent or higher)
  • Under 45 years of age when invited to apply
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • Age (maximum 30 points for ages 25-32)
  • English language ability (up to 20 points)
  • Skilled employment experience (up to 20 points)
  • Educational qualifications (up to 20 points)
  • Australian study (5 points)
  • Specialist education qualification (10 points)
  • Accredited community language (5 points)
  • Study in regional Australia (5 points)
  • Partner skills (10 points)
  • State or territory nomination (subclass 190: 5 points; subclass 491: 15 points)

Our immigration law specialists help you maximize your points score, navigate the skills assessment process, and prepare compelling applications. Contact us for a points assessment: 1300 99 88 88.

How much do your immigration law services cost?

We provide transparent, fixed-fee pricing tailored to your specific visa type and circumstances. Costs vary depending on:

  • The complexity of your case
  • The visa subclass
  • The level of assistance required

Whether appeals or complex submissions are needed

During your initial consultation, we’ll provide a clear written quote with no hidden fees. We also offer flexible payment plans to make professional immigration assistance accessible.

For a quote specific to your situation,
contact us on 1300 99 88 88 or email enquiries@sellanesclark.com.

Processing times vary significantly by visa type and individual circumstances:

  • Partner visas: As little as 3 months
  • Permanent residency: 2-4 months (in some cases)
  • Citizenship: 4 months
  • Parent exemptions and tourist visas: 7 working days
  • Skilled migration visas: 6-12 months
  • Employer-sponsored visas: 3-12 months
  • Partner visas: 12-24 months (standard processing)
  • Parent visas: Several years (depending on queue and visa type)
  • Citizenship: 12-18 months

Processing times change based on Department of Home Affairs workloads, additional checks required (health, character, security), and the completeness of your application.

Our immigration lawyers provide realistic timeframes based on current processing trends and actively manage your case to avoid unnecessary delays.

While you can apply for visas yourself, engaging experienced immigration lawyers in Sydney significantly improves your chances of success. Professional assistance ensures:

  • Your application is complete and well-documented
  • Evidence is strategically presented
  • All legal requirements are met
  • Risks are identified and mitigated
  • Responses to Department requests are handled promptly and professionally
  • Exclusion periods preventing future applications
  • Immigration history showing the refusal
  • Loss of non-refundable application fees
  • Potential removal from Australia if current visa expires

Our 99% success rate across 30,000+ matters demonstrates the value of expert guidance. Carlos Sellanes’ 20+ years working inside the Department of Immigration means we understand exactly how applications are assessed—knowledge that makes a real difference to outcomes.

For high-stakes applications like permanent residency, partner visas, or complex matters involving refusals or cancellations, professional assistance is strongly recommended.

These FAQs cover common immigration questions, but every case is unique. For advice specific to your circumstances, contact our experienced immigration law team:

Call: 1300 99 88 88 Email: enquiries@sellanesclark.com Office: Suite 03, Level 2, 90 Phillip Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Hours: 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Can’t visit our office? We offer phone and video consultations for clients anywhere in Australia or overseas.

Media Specialist

Roger Bates

Roger creates visual and multimedia content that helps explain complex immigration concepts and showcases our team’s expertise.

Web Development Specialist

Glenn Alderton

Glenn maintains our online platforms, including our secure client portal, ensuring clients can access case information and communicate with our team efficiently.
Business Consultant

Chris Pennisi

Chris provides strategic guidance for corporate clients navigating workforce immigration needs, sponsorship obligations, and compliance requirements.
Marketing Communications Manager

Chris Middleton

Chris manages our communications, educational content, and community outreach, ensuring clients and the broader community have access to accurate, up-to-date immigration information.

Administrative Assistant

Alana Sellanes

Alana provides vital administrative support that keeps our office running smoothly and ensures clients receive timely assistance with their inquiries.

Visa Client Support

Jennica Magsino

Jennica assists clients with documentation preparation, form completion, and general inquiries, ensuring every application meets the high standards Sellanes Clark is known for.
Immigration Strategist (New Zealand)

Cherie Baird

Cherie complements our trans-Tasman capabilities with deep knowledge of New Zealand visa options and Australia-NZ immigration coordination.
Immigration Strategist (New Zealand)

Aurora Christensen

Aurora provides specialized guidance on New Zealand immigration pathways and trans-Tasman migration matters, supporting clients with connections to both Australia and New Zealand.

Immigration Strategist

Siham Rowe

Siham brings expertise in family migration, partner visas, and citizenship applications. Known for her empathetic approach, Siham helps families navigate emotionally challenging immigration matters with sensitivity and professionalism.
Immigration Strategist

Sofia Farasat

Sofia specializes in skilled migration pathways, employer-sponsored visas, and permanent residency applications. Her detailed approach to evidence compilation and case preparation helps clients present the strongest possible applications.
Visa Client Support

Cindy Alberto

Cindy provides essential support throughout the application process, helping clients compile documents, understand requirements, and stay informed about their case status.
Immigration Coordinator

Wendelle Susas

Wendelle coordinates case management, ensuring applications progress efficiently through all stages. Clients frequently praise Wendelle’s responsiveness and clear communication throughout the visa process.

Chief Operating Officer

Toni Dignon

Toni oversees the operational excellence that allows Sellanes Clark to deliver consistently outstanding service. With extensive experience in immigration law practice management, Toni ensures our team has the systems, support, and resources needed to handle every case efficiently while maintaining the personalized attention our clients deserve.

Toni is frequently mentioned in client testimonials for her caring approach and dedication to client success, particularly in complex family reunion and permanent residency matters.