ART Decision Timeframes 2026

How Long Does ART Take to Make a Decision?

There is no single Administrative Review Tribunal decision timeframe that applies to every case. The time required depends on factors such as the number of applications received, the availability of Tribunal members, the type of decision under review, the Tribunal's case-management strategies and the complexity of the individual review.

The published ART processing times are based on cases that have already been finalised during the previous six months. They should therefore be treated as a guide rather than a promise that your review will be completed within the same period. Some cases are finalised more quickly, while others can take longer than the published 95% timeframe.

The review process may involve case-management events, dispute resolution, a hearing or, in some circumstances, a decision based on written materials. For example, recent changes to the law mean that most reviews of student visa refusals will generally be decided without an oral hearing, subject to limited exceptions. The Tribunal will contact applicants about the next steps for their particular review.

Why Can ART Reviews Take So Long?

The ART manages a large and changing caseload, and different categories have different levels of complexity. A straightforward review may be completed considerably faster than a case involving extensive evidence, multiple issues or a category with a substantial backlog. The Tribunal also has to provide parties with appropriate opportunities to participate before making a decision.

If you have already lodged an ART review, you should continue to monitor communications from the Tribunal and provide requested information within the specified timeframe. You can also use your ART online account to manage your case and submit documents.

Can You Speed Up an ART Review?

There is no general guarantee that an applicant can accelerate an ART review simply by requesting faster processing. The Tribunal manages its caseload according to its processes and priorities. If you have exceptional circumstances or an urgent issue affecting your case, you should provide relevant information to the Tribunal and follow its instructions rather than assuming that your review will automatically be prioritised.

For the latest information, check the official Administrative Review Tribunal processing times page because published figures can change as new cases are finalised.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does ART take to make a decision?

There is no fixed timeframe for every ART review. Current data shows that half of all migration reviews finalised between 1 February and 31 July 2026 were completed within 1 year and 6 months, while 95% were completed within 2 years and 10 months.

2. What are the ART processing times for migration reviews in 2026?

For migration reviews finalised between 1 February and 31 July 2026, 50% were finalised within 1 year and 6 months and 95% within 2 years and 10 months. The timeframe varies significantly by case category.

3. How long do ART student visa reviews take?

Current published figures show that 50% of student refusal reviews were finalised within 1 year and 6 months, while 95% were finalised within 2 years and 1 month. Student cancellation reviews had shorter published timeframes of 1 year and 1 month for 50% of cases and 1 year and 7 months for 95% of cases.

4. Can my ART review take longer than the published processing time?

Yes. The ART states that its processing times are a guide only. Some cases can take longer than the published timeframe because processing depends on factors such as case complexity, caseload, available Tribunal members and the type of decision being reviewed.

5. Does a longer ART processing time mean my case will be refused?

No. The length of time taken to finalise a review does not by itself indicate whether the Tribunal will affirm, vary, set aside or remit the decision. Processing time and the merits of an individual case are separate matters.