The path to permanent safety and security in a new country is often fraught with challenges, particularly for those fleeing persecution and trauma. In this blog post, we explore the journey of a Pakistani citizen seeking asylum in Australia, highlighting the complexities of the immigration process and the crucial role of expert legal support.
Background and Arrival
Our client, a Pakistani citizen, arrived in Australia in August 2013 as an unauthorized maritime arrival. His journey to seek safety was not straightforward. Before arriving in Australia, he faced multiple visa refusals and these refusals only underscored the hurdles he faced in finding refuge.
Applying for Protection
In 2016, Our client submitted an application for a Temporary Protection (subclass 785) visa, citing a well-founded fear for his life following his release by the Taliban. His claim was supported by a variety of documents, including certified evidence of his circumstances, a psychological report detailing symptoms consistent with severe trauma and medical records confirming his struggles with anxiety and depression.
Despite these efforts, the road ahead was anything but smooth.
Interview and Initial Decision
Our client attended an interview in September 2019, which proved to be a pivotal moment in the case. Due to the effects of medication and his mental health condition, he struggled to articulate his claims effectively. Requests for a second interview were denied.
On 25 February 2020, his visa application was refused on the grounds that he did not meet the protection obligations criteria.
Review and Appeals
Determined to challenge the decision, the case was referred to the Immigration Assessment Authority (IAA) for review. However, the IAA affirmed the refusal in April 2020. Our client pursued further recourse by lodging an application with the Federal Circuit Court.
A Turning Point in the Federal Court
Our client came to us in June 2024, and in only just 6 months working with Katsaros and Associates, he achieved a significant legal victory, and we won his case at The Federal Court on 23 December 2024.
How We Can Help
Navigating the complexities of Australia’s immigration laws can be daunting, especially for those who have faced significant trauma. At Katsaros and Associates, we specialise in providing compassionate and expert legal advice to ensure that every case is given the attention it deserves. Whether you are applying for a visa, seeking a review of a decision, or pursuing an appeal, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to discuss your immigration needs, we can help you!
