Although I had been an Australian resident for aproximately 10 years after my arrival in Sydney back in 1982, I had my visa cancelled after not returning to Australia in the alloted 5 year period that I was given when I moved back to Spain. That was a long time ago...

My mum, sister, brother and nephews all live here (Sydney, I mean) and got their Australian Citizenship long ago. I can speak the language, support myself, and had been offered a job. When I lodged my resident application 2 years ago I was quite confident that I would get it...

But I was wrong! (and no, I have no criminal record, if you're wondering! )

I must confess that it did hurt a little.

I don't know, perhaps I'm a bit simple minded... but I see a lot of people who get their resident visas and their baggage is basically language + job qualifications. Nothing wrong with that, but I was under the impression that I met those requirements also

Also, I had defended "the flag" at 3 World Junior Championships and 1 Asian Junior. Although my performances had not been outstanding (3rd place in the Asian Junior was my best result), I had paid most of the expenses associated with those trips. I didn't expect any medals for that of course, but at least I hoped that it would give me better chances.

Anyway, just a couple of days before my appeal dateline was about to expire, some good friends convinced me to pay the 1400$ fee and send my appeal. To be frank, I didn't think I had much of a chance after the initial rejection (and the fact that only around 10% of appeals are successful), so you can imagine my joy when a couple of months ago I got a letter from the Deparment of Immigration which contained the following line:

"...I am pleased to advise you that your application has been approved and permanent visa granted to the following person: Javier Gil."

I'ts taken two years. It's been a little hard.

Hard but worth it, I guess... and I know because I still smile when I think about it. (oh, and yes, if you win the appeal you do get your money back )