The Role of Migration Integrity Checks: What Applicants Should Understand in 2025

If you are waiting on a visa decision and wondering why it feels slow, there is a good chance your application is going through migration integrity checks. These checks can happen at any stage of the process and are a normal part of Australia’s efforts to protect the visa system. 

While they can add time, they are not always a sign of a problem. Understanding why these checks exist and what happens during them can help reduce stress and give applicants more confidence in the process. 

What are migration integrity checks in Australia? 

Migration integrity checks help verify identity, documents, character, funds and genuine intention. They protect Australia’s visa system and ensure applicants meet all requirements. These checks can extend processing times but are a routine part of visa assessment. 

Why Migration Integrity Checks Exist 

Protecting the Visa System 

Australia receives millions of visa applications each year. Integrity checks help ensure that the information submitted is accurate, genuine and lawful. This protects both the country and genuine applicants. 

Ensuring Applicants Meet Visa Conditions 

Integrity checks confirm that applicants meet the visa requirements they have applied for. This may include checking financial evidence, relationship claims, skills assessments or student enrolments. 

Preventing Fraud and Misuse 

These checks help identify: 

• falsified documents 

• incorrect identity information 

• hidden immigration histories 

• misleading claims 

Most applicants have nothing to worry about. The checks simply ensure fairness and accuracy in the system. 

What Integrity Checks Can Involve 

Identity Verification 

Officers may confirm your passport details, personal information or travel history to ensure everything matches official records. 

Document Verification 

This may include checking: 

• employment letters 

• bank statements 

• academic certificates 

• relationship documents 

• police clearances 

If something needs clarification, the officer may request more information. 

Character Checks 

These checks ensure applicants do not pose a risk to the community. They may involve police certificates, background records or international security clearances. 

Genuine Intention Assessment 

For visas such as student, visitor or partner visas, officers must be confident that the applicant’s purpose is genuine. This sometimes requires deeper review of supporting evidence. 

Third Party Verification 

In some cases, immigration may contact employers, education providers or relevant agencies to confirm the information provided. 

Why Integrity Checks Cause Delays 

They Can Happen at Any Time 

Even a straightforward application may undergo deeper review if something needs to be confirmed. 

Different Agencies May Be Involved 

Immigration can require information from other departments or international partners, which takes time. 

High Application Volumes 

When demand is high, checks may take longer simply because more applications are being reviewed. 

Incomplete or Inconsistent Information Slows the Process 

Missing documents, mismatched details or unclear evidence often lead to more verification steps. 

What Applicants Can Do to Reduce Delays 

Prepare Complete and Accurate Documents 

The cleaner your application, the fewer questions immigration needs to ask. Consistency across all forms and documents is key. 

Respond Quickly to Requests for Information 

If immigration asks for more evidence, try to submit it as soon as possible. Delayed responses extend processing times. 

Stay Patient and Informed 

Integrity checks are a normal part of the process. They do not always indicate a problem. Many applicants are approved right after these checks are completed. 

Seek Guidance if You Are Unsure 

A registered migration adviser can help identify issues early, organise evidence and prepare your application in a way that reduces the chance of unnecessary delays. 

How LMSD Supports You Through Integrity Checks 

At Legacy Migration & Study Direction, we help applicants understand: 

• why their application may be taking longer 

• which parts of their case require stronger evidence 

• how to respond to additional requests 

• how to prepare a clean, consistent and accurate application 

We provide reassurance, clear explanations and expert support so the process feels more manageable. 

Migration integrity checks are a normal part of Australia’s visa system. They protect genuine applicants and ensure fair processing. While they can cause delays, understanding why they happen helps reduce uncertainty and stress. 

The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link: https://www.legacymigration.com.au/take-your-first-step-to-living-working-or-studying-in-australia

Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357

QEAC Number: S041