Visa Refusals & Appeals
the end.
A decision that must be tested
A visa refusal or cancellation is not the end of the road. It is a decision that must be tested. At Katsaros & Associates, we act swiftly and strategically to challenge adverse decisions before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, the Federal Circuit Court, or the Federal Court of Australia.
We act for individuals, families, and sponsors facing adverse outcomes under the Migration Act 1958 and Migration Regulations 1994. Our role is to move quickly, analyse precisely, and map the most effective pathway forward.
Our submissions are meticulous, our advocacy measured, and our record proven. Every case receives individualised preparation: witness statements, expert reports, and precise statutory argumentation.
Your options after refusal
AAT Merits Review
The Administrative Appeals Tribunal reviews the decision afresh on the merits. We present new evidence, make legal submissions, and advocate for a different outcome.
Judicial Review
When a delegate or tribunal errs in law, we challenge the decision in the Federal Circuit Court or Federal Court on jurisdictional error or denial of natural justice.
Ministerial Intervention
In exceptional cases where all review avenues are exhausted, we prepare requests under sections 351, 417, and 195A highlighting compassionate circumstances.
Refusals and cancellations we challenge
We represent clients across all visa categories facing adverse decisions from the Department of Home Affairs.
Visa types
- Partner, Parent, Skilled, Student, Visitor and Protection visas
- Employer sponsorship and nomination refusals (482, 186, 494)
- Cancellations under ss 109, 116, 128, 134, 137J and related provisions
- No further stay condition issues (e.g. 8503) and waiver strategies
- Refusals based on alleged non-genuine relationships or insufficient evidence
- Adverse credibility findings, document concerns, and PIC-related issues
Time is critical
Strict time limits apply to AAT appeals. Most applications must be lodged within 21 days if you are in Australia, or 70 days if you are overseas. These deadlines cannot be extended.
We conduct urgent assessments of refusal notices, identifying time limits and review rights within 24-48 hours of engagement.
If you have received a refusal or cancellation notice, contact us immediately to preserve your options.
Litigators, advocates, defenders
AAT representation
We represent clients across all divisions of the AAT. Our team reviews the Department's decision record, identifies errors, and prepares persuasive evidence and legal submissions for hearing.
Federal Court
We act for clients seeking judicial review under s476 of the Migration Act, challenging decisions on jurisdictional error, denial of natural justice, or improper exercise of power.
Ministerial intervention
Where all avenues of review have been exhausted, we prepare carefully constructed representations under sections 351, 417, and 195A highlighting compassionate, compelling, or exceptional circumstances.
How we work.
From urgent assessment to tribunal hearing, we guide you through every stage.
Urgent
assessment
We assess your refusal notice, time limits, and review rights within 24-48 hours.
Urgent
assessment
Time is critical after a refusal. We review your refusal notice, identify the grounds for decision, and assess your review rights and deadlines. Strict time limits apply to AAT appeals. We act promptly to preserve your options.
Forensic
review
We analyse the decision record, evidence, and procedural fairness issues.
Forensic
review
Every decision has weaknesses. We forensically review the delegate's reasoning, your original evidence, and any procedural fairness concerns. This analysis forms the foundation of your appeal strategy.
Strategic
advice
We advise on whether to pursue AAT review, judicial review, or a fresh application.
Strategic
advice
Not every refusal should be appealed. We provide clear, unvarnished advice on your prospects. If appeal is the right path, we prepare meticulously. If a fresh application is stronger, we advise accordingly. Our goal is the best outcome, not just any outcome.
Representation
& advocacy
We prepare submissions, represent you at hearings, and advocate for your case.
Representation
& advocacy
Disciplined legal work wins appeals. We prepare detailed submissions addressing law, policy, and factual error. At hearings, we present evidence, examine witnesses, and make legal arguments. Nothing generic, nothing templated. Every case receives individualised preparation.
