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So…what if I lied?



Last year we touched upon Public Interest Criterion 4020. Today, we will revisit this topic.


To read the previous article, please click here.


What are the consequences of a PIC 4020 breach?


The visa applicant is obliged to prove their identity and provide true information with their application.


The Department may refuse a visa application if the primary visa applicant or a member of their family:


  • cannot prove their identity.

  • gives them a bogus document or information that is false or misleading in relation to a visa application.

  • has given them a bogus document or information that is false or misleading in relation to any visa the visa applicant held in the 12 months before applying for the current visa application.


If your identity cannot be proven, the Department:


  • may not grant you any other visa for 10 years

  • will not grant any family members you listed on your application a visa for 10 years


If the Department refuses your application because you provided a bogus document or information that is false or misleading, the Department:


  • will not grant you any other visa for 3 years

  • might refuse any current visa applications by members of your family

  • might not grant your family members a visa for 3 year


What are the options?


If you provide a bogus document or information that is false or misleading, the Department may still grant you a visa if you can show them that they should because of:


  • compelling circumstances that affect Australia, or

  • compelling or compassionate reasons that affect an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen


How can we help?


You may still have options to apply for a visa within 3 years of being refused a visa under PIC 4020 or if your visa application is still being considered by the Department of Home Affairs. We can help you! Contact one of our consultants today to discuss further.


Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case specific information or advice, please contact SCA Connect.

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