If you have applied for a Partner Visa, you may have encountered various forms that need to be filled out for the visa application process. Two such forms are the 956 and 956A.
While not required in all cases, these forms support communication and representation during the visa process. In the article below, you will learn the purpose of these forms and how they support clear communication with the Department of Home Affairs.
What Are Forms 956 and 956A?
Form 956 is used to appoint a registered migration agent, legal practitioner or exempt person to provide immigration assistance. Submission of this form is essential when an authorised exempt person is helping the visa applicant with the proceedings and other immigration matters. The following section outlines its purpose:
The purpose: It authorises a migration agent, a legal practitioner, or any other exempt person to act on the applicant's behalf while dealing with the Department of Home Affairs. This authorisation allows the agent, or the exempt person, to communicate on behalf of the visa applicant and deal with communications and submissions.
Who Benefits: This form is essential if you are a visa applicant who has appointed a registered migration agent or an exempt person to act on your behalf. It is also relevant for applicants who prefer a registered professional to handle communication with the Department.
Now, Form 956A, also known as the Appointment or Withdrawal of an Authorised Recipient, is a form that is used to appoint or remove an authorised recipient who can receive documents on behalf of the visa applicant.
Purpose: It enables the visa applicant to appoint or withdraw an authorised recipient to receive communication from the Department of Home Affairs on their behalf.
Who benefits: Visa applicants particularly benefit from this form when they are unable to receive correspondence directly regarding the visa Application. It ensures that the applicant does not miss important updates from the DHA.
Understanding Form 956 – Appointing a Migration Agent
Form 956 involves appointing an exempt person to act on behalf of the applicant. It enables the authorised body/person to provide immigration assistance and represent the applicant in all aspects of the visa application process and communications with the DHA.
Understanding Form 956A – Authorising Another Person
The Form 956A is about appointing or withdrawing an authorised recipient from receiving correspondence from the Department of Home Affairs on behalf of the applicant.
The form involves managing correspondence on behalf of the applicant and ensuring that they receive all the information and are updated on progress in a timely manner.
Who Needs to Use These Forms?
If you are a visa applicant and want to get help from a migration agent or an exempt person, you must fill out the 956 Form. This form allows the authorised person/body to take action and communicate on your behalf with the Department of Home Affairs.
Regarding Form 956A, if you want someone to receive correspondence from the DHA on your behalf, you will need to fill it out. It authorises someone (an individual such as a relative or nominated person, or any other exempt person) to receive documents and communication from the Department of Home Affairs.
Key Differences Between Form 956 and 956A
The key differences between Form 956 and 956A are that in the former, you appoint a registered migration agent, legal practitioner, or exempt person to provide you with immigration assistance.
In the latter, you authorise someone (not necessarily a professional) to only receive communication from the Department of Home Affairs.
How to Fill Out Form 956
Filling out Form 956 is divided into three sections. A detailed step-by-step explanation is given below:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Section A: This section consists of the Australian visa applicant's details. It includes the applicant's full name, date of birth, and contact information.
Section B: This section consists of the details of the migration agent or the exempt person. It includes the migration agent's registration number, and in the case of an exempt person, you may require other specific details.
Section C: Read the declaration properly to check whether the details are correct. Once the details are confirmed, you need to sign and date the form. This step confirms your agreement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It is important to check whether the details on the form are correct. If there are any discrepancies in the information added to the form, your visa processing may be delayed.
How to Fill Out Form 956A
There are four sections for filling out Form 956A. The sections are outlined below:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Section A: Firstly, you need to fill out the visa applicant's details, similar to the form 956. This section requires the applicant's full name, contact details, and date of birth.
Section B: Here, you must provide the authorised recipient's details, including their full name and contact information.
Section C: If you are withdrawing the authorised recipient, you need to complete this section. State the date from which you plan to cancel the appointment and indicate the reason for withdrawal.
Section D: Review the declaration, then sign and date the form.
Tips for a Smooth Submission
The information you are submitting should be accurate to minimise the risk of delays in processing the visa application. Moreover, you need to include the reason for withdrawal, if applicable, to maintain transparency.
How to Submit the Forms
You can submit Forms 956 and 956A both online and offline. Submission options are outlined below.
Online and Paper-Based Submission Methods
For online submission of Form 956 and 956A, there are two primary methods:
- ImmiAccount: Both forms can be uploaded through the ImmiAccount, which is the primary online platform for managing your visa applications.
- Email: You can also email the form to the Department of Home Affairs. However, the acceptable file size is currently 10MB or less. Hence, it is essential to keep this in mind when sending an email.
If you prefer offline submission, you can send the completed form to the address listed by the Department of Home Affairs on its official website. Remember to send the form to the correct office. For up-to-date information, you can check the Department of Home Affairs' website.
Regardless of how you plan on submitting your form, each section should be completed accurately to avoid processing issues.
What Happens After Submission
After submitting the forms, regardless of the method, the Department of Home Affairs will update its records as requested. They will ensure the records reflect the appointed authorised recipient and communicate with them about it.
DHA sends a written communication to the authorised recipient. After sending the communication, the Department may continue corresponding with the authorised recipient regarding the application’s progress.
FAQs About Forms 956 and 956A
Can I Appoint More Than One Person?
No, you cannot appoint more than one person using Form 956 or 956A. If you wish to appoint a different person, you are required to submit a new Form 956 to update the appointment and remove the previous representative.
What If I Change My Representative?
If you plan on changing your representative, you must submit a new Form 956 to notify the Department of Home Affairs. This new form will override the previous appointment and officially update your records.
How Do I Cancel an Authorisation?
To cancel an authorisation, you need to submit Form 956A. This will notify the Department of Home Affairs that you plan on withdrawing an exempt person from receiving communication on your behalf.
Why Choosing the Right Representative Matters
Appointing a suitable representative can help maintain accurate communication with the Department. They can assist with documentation and communication requirements to ensure that your application is handled with confidence and precision.
Our migration agents assist with submitting visa applications and communication tasks. Hence, by taking their help, you receive ongoing assistance with communication and documentation.
How a Registered Migration Agent Can Help
If you are confused about the migration process, you may choose to engage a registered migration agent to help streamline the journey. Here is how they help:
- Registered migration agents have years of experience dealing with different clients. This experience will assist with completing and submitting your application correctly.
- Reliable agents also offer transparent communication. They help lodge all forms correctly and ensure compliance with the rules established by the Department of Home Affairs.
- They help you assess your eligibility and handle complex tasks on your behalf. They also advise you on the best visa options based on your circumstances.
Conclusion
Understanding Forms 956 and 956A is essential for a smooth visa processing. These forms are not mandatory in every case, but may be necessary depending on your circumstances. They are helpful when the visa applicant does not want to or can not manage the application process.
Navigating the visa process can be challenging, but with appropriate support, you may be able to manage it more confidently.
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