Media release
28 September 2009
For immediate release
Apply for Australian visas well in advance
With the Christmas and New Year holiday season fast approaching, the Australian High Commission today reminded people in Papua New Guinea (PNG) planning to visit Australia to apply for visas well in advance of their intended travel date.
“The holiday season is the busiest time of year for people in PNG visiting Australia,” Australian High Commissioner to PNG, HE Chris Moraitis said today. “The Australian High Commission wants to provide a timely service to those planning to visit Australia, but it’s important to apply early.”
Mr Moraitis also said the High Commission will be closed from 24 December 2009 to 4 January 2010 so people wishing to travel between those dates should submit their visa applications well in advance.
To avoid any delays and because of the many applications submitted for the holiday period, intending travellers should allow a minimum of 10 working days to process their visa.
Mr Moraitis also advised that students planning to study in Australia next year should lodge applications at least 16 weeks before classes start. Sporting groups should lodge their applications at least four weeks before travel.
“I would also remind applicants to make sure they complete every section of their applications and provide all necessary supporting documents as outlined on the application checklist”.
“This will allow us to process the applications as quickly and easily as possible,” he said.
The Australian High Commission visa office is open from 9am to 12noon, Monday to Friday. Visa application forms and details of charges are available online at http://www.immi.gov.au/visitors.