From 29 November 2025, most offshore Class XB Refugee and Humanitarian visa applications must be submitted online via ImmiAccount, extending the digital lodgement arrangement introduced earlier in July 2025.
The change is designed to improve accessibility and allow applicants to lodge, upload documents, and manage their applications online, reducing reliance on postal systems. Applications under the Community Support Program remain unchanged.
Key Updates:
- Class XB Refugee and Humanitarian visa applications (excluding Community Support Program) must be lodged online via ImmiAccount.
- Online lodgement, introduced on 1 July 2025 for applicants with a proposer, has now been extended to include applicants without a proposer.
Unchanged Arrangements:
- Community Support Program applications continue under existing lodgement arrangements.
- Lodgement method does not affect processing times, although online applicants receive immediate confirmation of submission.
- There is no Visa Application Charge for these visas.
Additional Information:
- Application forms are available in English only, and any non-English documents must be translated before submission.
- Updated application information will be published on the Department’s website, and Community Liaison Officers will also inform communities about the revised lodgement process.
For more information refer to the attached Fact sheet