01/06/2026
π STUDENT VISA REFUSED? REVIEWS ARE MOVING "ON THE PAPERS"
From 1 June 2026, new rules change how student visa refusals are reviewed.
Instead of a hearing, most reviews will be decided on written documents alone β no face-to-face, no video, no phone call.
But there are important exceptions π
πΉ When will you STILL get a hearing?
If your refusal was based (even partly) on:
Character or security grounds (PIC 4001, 4003B)
Health requirements (PIC 4007)
Bogus documents (PIC 4020)
Past immigration breaches (PIC 4013, 4014, etc.)
Special return criteria
β¦then your review may NOT be on the papers.
πΉ What happens in an "on the papers" review?
The ART must invite you to provide proof that you're currently enrolled in a course (COE), as per clause 500.111.
You'll need to send written submissions and evidence.
πΉ Deadlines you MUST know
π 28 days β for general requests under s 367F
β οΈ Miss this? The ART can dismiss your review.
π 14 days β for enrolment proof under s 367G
β
Late info may still be considered β but ONLY if no decision has been made yet.
πΉ What if your case changes?
If your matter stops being an "on the papers" review, any invitation already sent under s 367G will automatically count as an invitation under s 359A. The ART won't reissue it.
π
When does this apply?
Appeals lodged on or after 1 June 2026, OR
Earlier appeals where the ART President hasn't yet set up the Tribunal
Also applies to cases that switch to "on the papers" review on or after 1 June no matter when they were lodged.
β οΈ Bottom line:
Get your written evidence right. Meet your deadlines. Don't assume you'll get a second chance.
Need help with a refusal? Message us.
For more: https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2026L00559/latest/text
MARN: 2318244
01/06/2026
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