In 2026, a visa audit doesn’t always start with a knock on the door. Thanks to integrated digital systems, the Department of Home Affairs now conducts “Silent Audits” by cross-referencing your employer’s payroll data with your visa conditions in real-time.

Here is exactly what the process looks like if you are flagged for a compliance check.

1. The Digital Trigger (The “Silent Audit”)

Most audits are now triggered by Single Touch Payroll (STP). When your employer pays you, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) receives that data. If your earnings suggest you are working more than 48 hours a week at your current pay rate, an automated flag is sent to the Department of Home Affairs.

2. The Request for Information (RFI)

If a discrepancy is found, you (or your employer) will receive an RFI. The Department will ask for:

• Official payslips and bank statements.
• Current rosters and time-sheets.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to check your holiday periods (when work limits don’t apply).

3. The On-Site Inspection (ABF)

While rarer than digital checks, the Australian Border Force (ABF) can perform unannounced site visits. They may:

• Interview employees to verify their roles.
• Check that you are performing the specific duties allowed by your visa.
• Review “Right to Work” (VEVO) logs kept by the employer.

4. The NOICC (Notice of Intention to Consider Cancellation)

If the Department believes a breach has occurred, they won’t just cancel your visa immediately. They must send you a NOICC.

Important: A NOICC is a formal letter stating they are thinking about cancelling your visa. You usually have 28 days to provide a legal argument or evidence as to why they shouldn’t.

5. The Final Decision

After reviewing your response, the Department will either:

• Issue a Warning: For minor, first-time, or accidental breaches.
• Maintain Your Visa: If your evidence proves you stayed within your limits.
• Cancel Your Visa: If a serious or intentional breach is confirmed.

How to Stay “Audit-Ready”

• Check VEVO Monthly: Ensure your status hasn’t changed and your contact details are current in ImmiAccount.
• Keep a Work Diary: If you work multiple jobs, keep a single spreadsheet (like our 48-hour tracker) to prove you never exceeded the fortnightly limit across all employers combined.
• Verify “Holiday” Dates: Only work unlimited hours during the official university break dates listed on your institution’s website—not just when you personally have no classes.