How To Follow Up Immigration Application

Initial Submission

When you first submit your immigration application, it enters the initial stage. This is when the immigration authorities receive your application, along with all the supporting documents. For example, if you’re applying for a work – based immigration visa in Canada, you’ll send in your application form, proof of job offer, educational certificates, and other relevant paperwork. At this stage, the authorities will check if your application is complete and meets the basic requirements.

Document Review

After the initial submission, the immigration officers start to review your documents. They will verify the authenticity of your certificates, check if your job offer is legitimate, and ensure that all the information you provided is accurate. In the case of a family – sponsored immigration application in the United States, they may review the relationship documents between you and your sponsoring family member to confirm the family connection.

Background Checks

Most immigration applications involve background checks. This includes criminal background checks, security checks, and sometimes even medical checks. For instance, if you’re applying for a permanent residency visa in Australia, you’ll need to undergo a medical examination to ensure that you don’t have any serious health conditions that could pose a risk to the public health system. The authorities will also check if you have any criminal records in your home country or other countries where you’ve lived.

Decision – Making Stage

Once all the reviews and checks are complete, the immigration authorities reach the decision – making stage. They will either approve your application, reject it, or in some cases, put it on hold pending further information. For example, in the United Kingdom, if you’ve applied for a student visa, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will make a decision based on all the information they’ve gathered during the application process.

Varying by Visa Type and Country

Factors Affecting Processing Times

Several factors can affect the processing times. The complexity of your application is one factor. If your case involves complex legal issues or requires additional verification, it will likely take longer. For example, if you’re applying for asylum in a European country, the process may be lengthy as the authorities need to carefully assess your claim. Another factor is the volume of applications being processed at the time. During peak seasons, such as the summer months when many people apply for tourist visas, the processing times may be extended.

Methods of Following Up on Immigration Applications

Using the Official Immigration Websites

Many countries have online tracking systems on their official immigration websites. For example, in the United States, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides an online tool called “Case Status Online.” To use this, you need your receipt number, which is issued to you when you file your application. You can enter this number on the USCIS website, and it will show you the current status of your application, such as whether it’s received, under initial review, or if a decision has been made.

Steps to Use the Tracking Systems

The steps to use these online tracking systems are usually straightforward. First, you need to find the official immigration website of the country you’re applying to. Then, look for the section related to tracking applications. In Canada, on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, you can log in to your account (if you applied online) or enter your application number (if you applied by mail). After entering the required information, the system will display the status of your application, including any updates or actions that need to be taken.

By Phone

Contacting the immigration authorities by phone is another way to follow up on your application. Each country has a specific contact number for immigration inquiries. For example, in Australia, you can call the Department of Home Affairs’ contact center. When you call, make sure you have all your application details ready, such as your name, passport number, and application reference number. The customer service representative will then be able to provide you with the latest information on your application status.

By Email

You can also follow up with the immigration authorities by email. Write a clear and concise email stating your purpose, which is to inquire about the status of your immigration application. Include all the relevant details, such as your name, application number, and the type of visa you applied for. For example, if you’re applying for a work visa in New Zealand, send an email to the appropriate immigration office with all the necessary information. However, be aware that the response time to emails may vary, and it could take several business days to receive a reply.

Benefits of Hiring a Representative

Hiring an immigration lawyer or a representative can be very helpful when following up on your application. These professionals have experience dealing with immigration authorities and know the process inside out. They can communicate with the authorities on your behalf, which may be more efficient than you doing it yourself. For example, if there are any issues with your application, an immigration lawyer can quickly understand the problem and provide a solution. They can also represent you in case of an interview or an appeal if your application is rejected.

Finding a Reputable Representative

When looking for an immigration representative or lawyer, it’s important to do your research. Check their credentials, such as whether they are registered with the relevant professional bodies. In the United Kingdom, immigration consultants should be registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC). Read reviews from past clients to get an idea of their reputation. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other immigrants who have used their services.

Keep Track of Your Application Details

Throughout the immigration application process, it’s essential to keep track of all the details. This includes your application number, receipt number, the date you submitted your application, and any correspondence you receive from the immigration authorities. For example, if you receive a letter from the immigration office asking for additional documents, make sure you keep a copy of it. This information will be useful when you’re following up on your application, as the immigration authorities may ask for these details to locate your file.

Know the Requirements of Your Application

Understand the requirements of your specific immigration application. If you’re applying for a student visa, know what documents are required to prove your enrollment in a recognized educational institution. If it’s a work visa, be aware of the job – related requirements, such as the need for a valid job offer and relevant work experience. This knowledge will help you when you’re following up, as you can better understand any questions or requests from the immigration authorities.

Additional Document Requests

If the immigration authorities request additional documents during the follow – up process, respond promptly. For example, if you’re applying for a family – based immigration visa in the United States and the USCIS asks for more proof of your relationship with your sponsoring family member, gather the necessary documents, such as additional photos, joint bank statements, or letters from family friends, and submit them as soon as possible. Delaying the response can lead to delays in your application processing.

Interview Requests

If you’re asked to attend an interview as part of the follow – up, prepare well in advance. Find out what the interview will cover, such as questions about your application, your background, or your intentions in the new country. Practice answering common interview questions, and make sure you have all the relevant documents with you. For example, if you’re applying for a work visa in Singapore and you’re called for an interview, bring your original educational certificates, work experience letters, and any other documents that support your application.

The Importance of Patience

The immigration application process can be long and frustrating, especially when you’re waiting for a decision. It’s important to stay calm and patient during the follow – up process. Remember that the immigration authorities are dealing with a large number of applications, and each one needs to be carefully reviewed. For example, if your application has been in the “under review” stage for a few months, don’t panic. This may be a normal part of the process, especially for complex applications.

Managing Anxiety

To manage the anxiety associated with waiting for the outcome of your immigration application, find healthy ways to cope. You can focus on other aspects of your life, such as work, hobbies, or spending time with family and friends. You can also join support groups for immigrants, where you can share your experiences and get support from others who are going through the same process. For example, there are online forums where immigrants can discuss their application progress, share tips, and offer emotional support.

Administrative Backlogs

One of the common reasons for delays in immigration applications is administrative backlogs. The immigration authorities may have a large number of applications to process, and this can cause delays. For example, in Canada, if there is a sudden increase in the number of applications for a particular visa category, such as the family – sponsored visa, the processing time may be extended.

Incomplete or Inaccurate Information

If your application contains incomplete or inaccurate information, it can also lead to delays. The immigration authorities may need to contact you to request additional information or clarification. For example, if you forget to include an important document in your work visa application in Australia, the Department of Home Affairs may put your application on hold until you provide the missing document.

Security or Background Check Issues

Security or background check issues can also cause delays. If the immigration authorities need to conduct further investigations as part of the background check, it can take time. For example, if there are discrepancies in your criminal record check or if there are concerns about your identity, the processing of your application may be delayed.

Understanding the Reasons for Rejection

If your immigration application is rejected, the first step is to understand the reasons for the rejection. The immigration authorities will usually provide a letter explaining the reasons. For example, if you applied for a tourist visa to the United Kingdom and it was rejected, the letter may state that you did not provide sufficient evidence of your ties to your home country, such as a stable job or property ownership.

Options for Appeal or Re – Application

Once you understand the reasons for rejection, you can explore your options. In some cases, you may be able to appeal the decision. For example, in the United States, if your green card application is rejected, you may be able to file an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). In other cases, you may need to re – apply, making sure to address the issues that led to the rejection. For example, if your work visa application in New Zealand was rejected because of a lack of relevant work experience, you may need to gain more experience and then re – apply.

Following up on an immigration application is an important part of the immigration process. By understanding the different stages of the application, using the available methods of follow – up, being prepared with information, responding promptly to requests, and knowing how to deal with delays and rejections, you can increase the chances of a successful immigration outcome. Remember, the process may be long and challenging, but with patience, perseverance, and the right approach, you can navigate through it. Whether you’re immigrating for work, study, or family reasons, staying informed and proactive throughout the follow – up process will help you achieve your goal of starting a new life in a new country.