Key Takeaways:
- Australia’s Immicard provides an alternative for visa holders lacking valid passports, enabling travel and access to services like Medicare.
- Eligibility for an Immicard includes various visa types such as Bridging, Humanitarian, and Protection visas, among others.
- Immicard facilitates checking visa status through VEVO, especially beneficial for permanent residents arriving before 1990 without valid travel documents.
Navigating through the intricacies of immigration requirements can be a daunting task, especially for those entering Australia without a valid passport. Whether due to personal circumstances or complex legalities, the need for proper documentation remains a critical hurdle. However, Australia offers a unique solution to assist these individuals: the Immicard. Designed to facilitate a range of services and processes for visa holders, the Immicard is an essential tool in the arsenal of immigration documentation.
Understanding what an Immicard is, who qualifies for it, and how to obtain one can significantly ease the stress associated with immigration formalities. Whether you’re a permanent resident who arrived before 1990 or someone with a specific type of visa, the Immicard serves as a lifeline, providing access to crucial services such as Medicare and Centrelink, as well as enabling travel. This guide delves into the requirements, application process, and frequently asked questions about the Australia Immicard, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate your journey in Australia smoothly.
Understanding Australia’s ImmiCard
What is an ImmiCard?
The ImmiCard is an official Australian document issued to specific visa holders in circumstances where their passports are not recognized or accepted by the Australian government. The card serves several critical functions:
- Travel: It allows holders to travel to and from Australia.
- Visa Applications: It can be utilized when applying for certain Australian visas.
- Visa Status Verification: Holders can check their visa status using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.
Furthermore, the ImmiCard facilitates access to essential services:
- It simplifies the process for visa holders to access their Commencement of Identity (COI) in Australia, which is crucial for obtaining services like Medicare and Centrelink.
This document is particularly beneficial for some permanent residents who:
- Arrived in Australia before 1990.
- Have not traveled outside of Australia since their arrival.
Visa applicants without valid passports, due to a variety of personal circumstances, may be eligible to receive an ImmiCard. This card is a solution for those needing valid travel documents, ensuring they can benefit from other services available in Australia
“As a solution, Australia issues ImmiCards to help visa applicants benefit from other services in Australia,” highlights the need for such a system to support individuals during their stay in the country.
Overall, the Australia ImmiCard plays a crucial role in ensuring that foreigners can manage their status and access important services within the country, even without a recognized passport.
Do I Need an Immicard?
An Immicard provides a means of identification for specific visa holders and residents without standard documentation in Australia. If you meet any of the following criteria, you are eligible for an Immicard:
- Lack of a Valid Passport: You are currently in Australia without a valid passport.
- Specific Visa Categories: You must hold one of the following visas:
- Bridging visa E for illegal maritime arrivals (subclass 050 or 051)
- Bridging visas for trafficked individuals (subclass 060)
- Bridging visa, removal pending (subclass 070)
- Humanitarian stay (Temporary) visa (subclass 449)
- Temporary Protection visa (subclass 785)
- Safe Haven Enterprise visa (subclass 790)
- Permanent Protection visa (subclass 866)
- Replacement of Travel Documents: You need to replace your Document for Travel to Australia (DFTTA) or your PL056 (Visa Evidence Card).
- Unregistered Immigrants: If you are an undocumented immigrant living in Australia without a visa, consult your case manager.
- Permanent Resident without Passport: You are a permanent resident who arrived in Australia before 1990, cannot obtain a passport, and cannot use the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.
For any of the above categories, obtaining an Immicard can provide essential identification and travel documentation within and outside Australia.
Australia ImmiCard Application Requirements
When applying for an ImmiCard in Australia, it’s essential to prepare and submit several required documents. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand what you need:
Identification Photographs
You must provide a recent identification photograph. Acceptable forms include:
- An expired passport
- National ID card
- Australian driver’s licence
- Proof of age card
- If none of the above is available, a recent passport photo will suffice
Additional Documents for Proof of Identity
If you do not have a standard identification photograph, you may provide any of the following:
- Medicare card
- Credit card
- Centrelink concession card
Essential Documents
Proofs of Continuous Residence in Australia
Submit three of the following documents to demonstrate uninterrupted residence in Australia:
- Financial records
- School and work records
- Tax records
- Mortgage records
- Bills
- Rental agreements
- Marriage certificate
- Your children’s birth certificate
- Certificate proving a name change (if applicable)
Note: “It’s important to provide documents that accurately reflect your residence status,” stresses the need to provide affirming documentation.
Special Requirements for Certain Visa Holders
If you hold a Protection or Safe Haven Enterprise visa (subclass 785, 790, or 866), include:
- Visa grant letter
- A recent identity photograph (as mentioned above under Identification Photographs)
- Any other document proving your identity (as listed under Additional Documents for Proof of Identity)
Document Specifications
To ensure your application is processed efficiently:
- Scanning Requirements:
- Always scan the original documents in color.
- The resolution must be high (600 dpi).
- Black and white copies, or photographs of copies, will not be accepted.
- Selfies are not acceptable as pictures of identification.
- Translation Requirements:
- Documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters. Submit both the original and the translated version.
- File Size and Submission:
- The maximum size of any attached document is 10MB.
- Ensure all documents are digital so you can attach them to your online application form.
By adhering to these specific guidelines and preparing your documents carefully, you can streamline the ImmiCard application process in Australia.
How to Apply for an Australia Immicard
Applying for an Australian Immicard involves a few clear steps. To ensure a smooth application process, follow these detailed instructions:
1. Gather the Required Documents
Before starting your application, you need to prepare all essential documents. To be ready for online submission, ensure:
- All documents are scanned
- Files are accessible for uploading
2. Complete the Application Form
The application for an Immicard must be completed online. During this step, certain details are crucial:
- Visa Grant Number: This consists of 13 numbers found in your visa grant letter.
- ID Number: Look for 11 numbers in your visa grant letter.
- Boat ID: This is applicable to illegal maritime arrivals and includes three letters followed by three numbers.
For an Australian address entry, the format should be:
- Start with your unit or house number
- Follow with the street name
- End with the suburb
3. Apply for the Immicard
Once you have filled out the form and attached all necessary documents, you can proceed with the application. Here’s what happens next:
- Issuance: If approved, your Immicard will be mailed to you.
- Non-availability: If you’re not at home to receive the card, a collection slip will be left. This slip can be used to collect your Immicard from a designated post office.
When collecting the card, remember:
“Make sure you bring identification with you such as your visa grant letter, Medicare card, or Australian driver's license.”
Applicants are encouraged to carefully check their details and ensure all information is accurate before submitting their applications. Following these steps not only simplifies the process but also increases the likelihood of a successful Immicard application.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Immicard?
Processing your Immicard application typically takes approximately two weeks. Once the review of your application is complete, you will then receive your Immicard.
Types of Immicards
As of July 2017, there are two primary types of Immicards available to individuals, streamlined from the previous four types to simplify the system:
- Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS): This card is intended for visa holders currently residing in Australia.
- Australian Migration Status Immicard (AMS): This card is specifically for individuals outside Australia who hold a Refugee and Special Humanitarian Programme visa.
It’s important to note, “Those Immicards that were issued before the change in July 2017 remain valid.” This ensures all previously issued Immicards retain their legitimacy and function.
Australia Immicard Fees
When applying for an Australia Immicard, it’s important to understand the different fees that may apply depending on your specific circumstances:
- First Immicard for Eligible Visa Holders in Australia: $100
- Replacement Immicard (due to damage, loss, change of name, etc.): $30
- First Immicard for Visa Holders 785, 786, 790, or 866: Issued within three months of visa grant, this is Free of Charge
- Immicard for Unaccompanied Minors or Vulnerable Non-Citizens: Free of Charge
Payment Process for an Australia Immicard
To pay for your Immicard, follow these steps:
- Create or Use an ImmiAccount: You must process all payments through an ImmiAccount. If you do not already have an account, you will need to create one.
- Complete Payment Before Application: Ensure you complete the payment first, as the receipt number from this transaction is required on the application form.
Remember, setting up and using an ImmiAccount is essential for managing and submitting your Immicard fee.
By familiarizing yourself with the fee structure and payment process, you can navigate the application process for an Australia Immicard more smoothly.
Immicard Expiry and Renewal
When Does My Immicard Expire?
- Your Immicard has a validity of five years from the issue date.
- It does not renew automatically upon expiry.
- “Your visa expiration date is not connected to your Immicard.”
- You can access your visa details in VEVO using an expired Immicard.
Can I Apply for Another Immicard?
Yes, if your Immicard is lost, damaged, or expired, you are eligible to apply for a replacement. Here’s how:
- Application Process:
- Apply online, the process mirrors the initial application.
- Ensure the submission of your current, or expired, Immicard as a part of the required documents.
- Fees:
- You must pay the designated fee before submitting your application.
Updating Immicard Details
Do I Need a New Immicard if I Change My Name?
If you undergo a name change due to marriage or other reasons, follow these steps:
- Fill in the “request for amendment” to update your Immicard with your new name.
- Complete the required amendment application form.
- “Upon approval, submit your old Immicard for cancellation to receive a new one.”
- Your new card features new details but will have the old details printed on the back. This helps other administrations verify your identity.
- Fees:
- The fee for modifying your Immicard details parallels that for a replacement.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure the continued validity and accuracy of your Immicard, supporting seamless identity verification and administrative processes.
Australia Immicard for Minors
Application Process
- Children Over 16 Years:
- Can apply for their own Immicard without parental involvement.
- Children Under 16 Years:
- Must have their application submitted by a parent or legal guardian.
- Necessary supporting documents include:
- A scan of the child’s Medicare card.
- Adoption papers (if applicable).
Biometrics Requirements for an Australia Immicard
When applying for an Immicard, you may be required to provide biometric data. This typically includes:
- An identity photo
- Fingerprints
The Immigration Office will notify you if biometric data is needed. If so, “you have to make an appointment at one of their offices,” ensuring your data submission is handled efficiently.
Understanding DFTTA
Definition
DFTTA stands for ‘Documents for Travel to Australia.’ It is specifically issued to:
- Offshore refugees
- Humanitarian visa holders
Purpose and Validity
- It allows entry into Australia for the first time.
- Valid for one single trip only, indicating that “a DFTTA is not a long-term solution.”
Current Policies
Australia has phased out the issuance of new DFTTAs. Present holders needing detailed updates are directed to apply for an Immicard instead, signifying a shift in document policy for travelers requiring a longer-term stay or more frequent travel authorization.
Official and Helpful External Resources for Australia ImmiCard
1. Australia Government and Immigration Resources
- Department of Home Affairs (Official Website): Comprehensive information about Australian visas, citizenship, entry requirements, and more.
Australia Department of Home Affairs – Home Page - Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO): VEVO lets visa holders, employers, and government agencies check the visa entitlements and status of visa holders.
VEVO – Check Visa Details and Conditions
2. Application Process and Forms
- ImmiCard Application Form: For applying for an ImmiCard, accessible through an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
ImmiAccount – Application for ImmiCard
3. Support and Guidance for Immigrants
- Medicare Enrollment Forms and Guidelines: Details on how to enroll in Medicare for those holding an ImmiCard which is crucial for accessing healthcare services.
Medicare Enrollment Information - Centrelink Services: Information regarding social security payments and services that can be accessed by Immicard holders if eligible.
Centrelink – Services Australia
4. Identity and Official Document Standards
- Proof of Identity Documents: Explanation of acceptable documents and how to present them during official processes such as applying for an ImmiCard.
Proof of Identity Requirements
5. Translation and Accreditation
- National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI): Information on certified translators if you need to translate documents not in English for visa and ImmiCard applications.
NAATI – Official Website
6. Information on Visa Categories
- Specific Visa Information: Detailed explanations of various visa categories that may be eligible for an ImmiCard.
Australian Visa Information
7. FAQs and Contact
- Department of Home Affairs Contact Page: Direct line for queries related to immigration and ImmiCards, offering both phone support and a contact form.
Contact Us – Department of Home Affairs - Immigration Glossary: Definitions of terms commonly used in Australian immigration processes.
Glossary of Terms
These resources provide authoritative and specific information useful for understanding and obtaining an Australia ImmiCard, navigating associated legalities, and accessing related services.
