The process for applying for an Australian visa with a Refugee Travel Document (RTD) is different from the standard online application. Based on my personal experience, the steps are as follows:
1. Initial Contact: You cannot apply directly through the main online system if your nationality is not listed because you hold an RTD. You must first send a request via the Australian online visa portal. In your request, explain that your nationality does not appear in the system as you are using a Canadian-issued Refugee Travel Document.
2. Receiving the Form: In their reply, the Department of Home Affairs will send you an editable PDF visa form to fill out, along with the full process instructions.
3. Liaison with Embassy: They will then connect you with the visa office at the Australian Embassy in Ottawa if you are a resident within their jurisdiction.
4. Application Submission & Linking:
· Submit your completed visa application form via email as instructed.
· They will then approve your application for online processing and send you another email with a link to connect your application to their official visa portal (ImmiAccount).
· Your application will be assigned to a specific visa officer.
5. Uploading Documents: Once your application is linked to the online portal, you can submit all the supporting documents requested in the visa officer's email.
Important Advice:
· If you hold only a Refugee Travel Document (RTD) without a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) Card, I advise against applying, as there is a very high chance of rejection.
· You may only consider applying if you hold both a valid PR Card and an RTD.
· The entire process typically takes around 25 days.
Please note: I am not a visa consultant or an advisor. I am simply sharing my personal experience of the Australian visa application process.