s.501 Character Risk Checker
Section 501 of the Migration Act allows the Minister to refuse or cancel a visa on character grounds. Answer these questions to assess your risk.
Important: If you answer "Yes" to any question below, you should seek legal advice before making any visa application or travelling internationally. Nilesh Nandan has extensive experience in s.501 character matters and has represented clients before the ART and Federal Court.
Have you ever been sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 12 months or more (including suspended sentences)?
This includes sentences in Australia or overseas. A suspended sentence counts even if you did not serve time in prison.
Have you ever been sentenced to 2 or more terms of imprisonment, where the total is 12 months or more?
The sentences do not need to be served concurrently — the total cumulative sentence is what matters.
Have you ever been convicted of a sexually-based offence involving a child?
Have you ever been a member of, or associated with, a group or organisation involved in criminal conduct?
This includes outlaw motorcycle clubs, organised crime groups, or any group the Minister has declared to be a criminal organisation.
Have you ever been deported or removed from Australia or any other country?
Do you have any criminal convictions (in Australia or overseas), even minor ones?
This includes traffic offences, minor drug offences, or any matter where you were found guilty.
Do you currently have any pending criminal charges or are you under investigation?
Have you ever been subject to a domestic violence order (AVO, DVO, IVO, etc.)?
Have you ever been convicted of a drug-related offence?
Have you ever been convicted of a violent offence (assault, robbery, etc.)?