Australian visa and criminal convictions
I have a subclass 651 eVisitor visa to travel from the UK to Australia. One VISA condition is
The holder must not have one or more criminal convictions, for which the sentence or sentences (whether served or not) for a total period of 12 months or more, at the time of travel to, and entry into Australia
Does "sentences" include disqualification from driving, or just prison time?
I do not have a substantial criminal record as cited on Autralian Government Department of Immigration and border protection: http://www.border.gov.au/Lega/Lega/Form/Immi-FAQs/what-is-a-substantial-criminal-record
My criminal record is for disqualification from driving for 12 months, by a Juvenile court 12 years ago (Aged 16), under aggravated vehicle taking, no insurance and driving otherwise then in accordance with a licence.
Does my subclass 651 eVisitor visa cover me, and do I need to apply for a different visa? I have called the Australian Immigration Office Overseas (Australian High Commission based) Europe Service Centre in London, and they did not have an answer, instead directed me to the webpages above, and said the decision on which visa I need is down to me.
I have also contacted ACRO customer services (UK), who stated the decision is down to the Australian High Commission.
I am planning to visit a friend for 16 days, and only need a visa to cover for tourism (not working or studying)
Best Answer
I'm fairly certain that that clause is talking about actual criminal convictions which you went to trial for and served (or were on probation for) a 12+ month sentence.
However, going to Australia is a long trip, and I've seen people turned back at the airport before. I would suggest that you write a letter / send an e-mail to the Australian Consulate to clear it with them before you purchase a ticket. Calling them is okay for short questions but I think you'd get a better answer if you ask in writing.
Pictures about "Australian visa and criminal convictions"
Can I get an Australian visa with a criminal record?
Can I apply for an Australian visa with a criminal record? Yes, travellers with a criminal record may apply for the Australian ETA or an eVisitor Visa. A person convicted of a minor offence, who has not been sentenced to prison can complete the ETA or eVisitor application form.What criminal convictions can stop you from entering Australia?
What Criminal Records Prevent Travel to Australia?- Have any conviction that resulted in a prison sentence of 12 months or more (regardless of time served)
- Have been convicted for two or more offenses and the combined length of all your sentences amounts to 12 months or more (regardless of time served)
Are convicted felons allowed in Australia?
The process of applying for a visa varies from country to country. Some countries do not allow people who have a felony on their criminal records to obtain a visa, so they are unable to visit....Countries That Dont Allow Felons 2022.CountryDetailsAustraliaDeny up frontTaiwanDeny up frontChileDeny up frontCambodiaDeny if discovered33 more rowsCan you be an Australian resident with criminal charges?
Your past and present criminal or general conduct shows that you are not of good character. There is a risk that you would engage in criminal conduct in Australia if you were allowed to enter or to remain in Australia.How criminal convictions can affect your Australian visa application?
More answers regarding australian visa and criminal convictions
Answer 2
That snippet you provided refers to time behind bars - in jail - in any case write to your local Australian embassy or consulate in the UK for advice.
Answer 3
Even though driving offences can be on your criminal records, your sentence implies it is not what is meant by the visa condition. The link clearly says about detainment/imprisonment periods. You shouldn't worry considering you were not even fined. Sentences can be either imprisonment or cash penalties. I dont think license/driving suspension are considered a sentence at all.
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