s 56 (Request for Further Information)
s 57 (Natural Justice)
If you have received a section 56 request for further information (RFI) or a section 57 Natural Justice letter from the Department of Home Affairs, it is important to take it seriously.
These letters are often sent when the Department needs more information, has concerns about your application or is considering information that could lead to a visa refusal.
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A section 56 request is commonly called a Request for Further Information (RFI). It may ask for missing documents, updated evidence, police checks, health information, relationship evidence, employment documents or clarification about your circumstances.
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A section 57 Natural Justice letter can be more serious. It may mean the Department has adverse information about your application and must give you an opportunity to respond before making a decision. This can involve concerns about genuine documents, inconsistent information, character matters, relationship claims, employment history or other issues that may affect the outcome.
Got a Section 56 or 57 Letter?
Here's What You Need to Do Next
The way you respond can be critical. A rushed, incomplete or poorly explained response can increase the risk of refusal. Ignoring the letter, missing the deadline or providing the wrong documents can also have serious consequences. In some cases, a refusal may affect future visa applications and may limit your options in Australia.
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GPS Migration Australia can help you understand what the Department is asking, what the real issue is and how to respond properly. We can review the letter, identify the risks, prepare a response strategy and help you provide the strongest possible evidence.
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Our s56 and s57 response support may include:
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reviewing the Department’s letter
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explaining the issues in plain English
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identifying what evidence is needed
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preparing a response plan
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drafting written submissions
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reviewing documents before submission
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helping you meet the deadline
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advising on the risks of refusal and next steps
These letters are time-sensitive. Do not leave your response until the last few days and do not assume the Department is only asking a simple question. The wording of the letter matters and the evidence you provide can make a major difference.