Processing time vs allocation dates. Difference?

[FOL]

For example a 489 (priority group 3) visa;

 

On this page it says the allocation date for a 489 visa currently is within four weeks:

http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/estimated-allocation-times.htm

 

 

On the other hand this page says the processing times are 6 months:

http://www.immi.gov.au/about/charters/client-services-charter/visas/8.0.htm

 

 

 

1) What is the difference between processing times and allocation dates?

2) Based on the current information, how long would it generally take before getting a case officer?

3) Based on the current information, how long would it generally take from CO to visa grant?

[lebourvellec]

1) Processing times - how long takes to process visa - allocation date - when get a CO

2) As stated - within 4 weeks after lodgment

3) Depends...... are you from HR or LR country - due to internal/external checks, verifying all your information, requesting extra documentation, if you do medicals when requested at start of 28 days or end, How long it takes for your PCC to get back, if your medicals are referred, how quick your CO is to grant.

 

Due to all points claimed on each EOI have to be verified - it is going to take longer for CO to turn documents to "met" and will request lots of additional work experience documentation - Banks statements, pay slips, P60 etc

[FOL]

Thanks for your answer!

 

Was the processing time last year for a for state sponsored (regional) visa 6 months as well?

 

We are from a LR country and have no unusual documents. In the past people from my countey had a status 'met' within 4 weeks after getting a CO. Can we expect this too or did something change since July and we now have to count on 6 months?