Decision Ready Checklist (DRC) For Partner Visa Applications
Fiona McCulloch, Director of Programme Delivery, Partner Migration (Temporary and Provisional) has confirmed the following in relation to Partner Migration:
As a general principle, DIAC processes applications in order of receipt,however if registered migration consultants are able to submit decision ready applications then those applications are prioritised.
It is conceivable that if a case is decision ready, front-loaded with all documentation on file, that the application could be decided within days of lodgement.
A decision ready application means that all information required to reach a positive decision is available to the delegate to the Immigration Minister.
This means that all necessary penal checks have been provided and are “clear” health tests completed and “clear”, and that there is sufficient information to determine that all other relevant criteria are met.
Cases are screened for decision readiness on lodgement. Where submit incomplete applications, these are queued for finalisation in date order (currently 9 – 12 months). DIAC also seeks to identify where cases become decision ready while queued, and where these can be identified, then they too are prioritised for finalisation. Applications which have not been accompanied by relevant penal and health clearances are not decision ready.
DIAC has a large pipeline of around 20,000 cases, and the nature of the caseload is such that the level of relationship evidence that is required for each case will vary, depending on the circumstances of the case. Should therefore not expect that DIAC will debate with them whether a case is decision ready or not. If the case is not considered by DIAC to be decision ready, then a tailored request for specific additional information will be made once the application reaches the front of the queue.
DIAC will only interview a tiny fraction of cases. Most will be decided without face to face interview. Where additional information or clarification is required and the delegate to the Immigration Minister believes that this can be obtained by telephone or email, then they will do so.