Official form guide
Form 1005: Return of original documents form
This form, the Return of original documents form (Form 1005), is used when you need to send back important papers related to your Home Affairs application. You use it after an officer has requested originals or needs them for processing.
Need help with Form 1005?
Open it in the AI Editor for field guidance, checks, and PDF export.
Form Overview
Home Affairs Form 1005 - Return of original documents form
This form, the Return of original documents form (Form 1005), is used when you need to send back important papers related to your Home Affairs application. You use it after an officer has requested originals or needs them for processing.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Don't forget to attach the actual physical documents when you submit this form!
- 2Forgetting to list an attached document on Form 1005
- 3Submitting copies instead of the actual originals
- 4Not referencing the correct application ID number
- 5Mailing the form without tracking/proof of postage
Plain English
Think of this as a return slip for official paperwork from the Department of Home Affairs. If they asked you to keep copies but now want the real things, this is how you send them back in. It keeps your application record tidy.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Submit it when you have been formally asked by a case officer to return your initial supporting paperwork. There is no set deadline unless specified in your correspondence.
- Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
- Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.
AI co-pilot
Fill it faster. Catch mistakes before you file.
What this form is for
- Use this form when an officer specifically asks you to send back documents.
- It replaces sending a simple letter with just photocopies attached.
- This is for originals, not copies. If it's only copies, check other options first.
- Use this after your application has been assessed and requires physical document return.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Sending documents via ImmiAccount
Best if you have an active online account
✓ Check if the officer specified a mailing address
Returning documents for a visa renewal
Depends on your application type
✓ Always confirm with your case officer
Form 1005 (or specific subclass form)
Submitting initial originals
You might not need Form 1005 immediately
✓ Check if they asked you to fill it out first
Use the relevant application form
Returning documents for a citizenship application
Confirmed by Home Affairs guidelines
✓ Look at your assessment letter
Form 1005 (or specific subclass form)
Deadline or filing window
If your case officer gives you a specific date, adhere to that timeline strictly. Otherwise, return them as soon as possible after receiving the request.
Before you submit
- 1Fill out every section requested on Form 1005.
- 2Write clearly and legibly, especially your name and file number.
- 3Attach all original documents that are being returned.
- 4Ensure the address listed matches the official Home Affairs processing centre.
- 5If mailing, write 'Return of Original Documents - Form 1005' on the envelope.
- 6Sign the form where indicated (don't skip signature lines).
- 7Double-check your contact details are correct for follow-up.
How to file this form
- 1Complete all required fields on Form 1005 accurately.
- 2Gather every original document that needs to be returned.
- 3Place the form and originals securely into a sturdy envelope.
- 4Address the envelope clearly using the instructions provided by Home Affairs.
- 5Mail the package via a tracked service (recommended).
- 6Keep a copy of the signed Form 1005 for your records.
Known limitations
- 1This form does not replace the need to upload copies online if requested.
- 2It is only for returning *originals*, not duplicates or certified copies unless specified.
- 3The acceptance of documents depends on whether they match the application type (e.g., visa vs citizenship).
- 4Not confirmed in official source: There is no guaranteed processing time once Form 1005 is received.
Field map
Compact field-by-field guide
Applicant
3 items
Your name exactly as shown in your passport.
Your date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY).
Passport number, country of issue, and expiry date.
Contact
1 items
Current residential address, postal address, email, and phone number.
Request
1 items
The visa, citizenship, or sponsorship request this form relates to.
Evidence
1 items
Certified copies of identity and other documents required for the request.
Declaration
1 items
Declare that the information is true and correct, then sign and date.
Almost done reviewing the fields?
Fillable formOpen in Editor->Form 1005 is the standard way to return original papers to the Department of Home Affairs. Check the latest version on the Home Affairs website for any recent updates.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Verify the current version number printed on the top of the page.
- Check if the Department of Home Affairs logo is present and correct.
- Confirm that Form 1005 is listed as the 'Return of original documents form'.
- Look for any specific instruction footnotes regarding mailing requirements (e.g., tracking required).
- Ensure the date field allows entry in DD/MM/YYYY format.
Quick Facts
Downloads & source
Sources
- SRCForm Name: Return of original documents form
- SRCForm Number: 1005
- SRCIssuing Agency: Department of Home Affairs (HOME_AFFAIRS)
- SRCContext: Used when originals are requested for processing.
- SRCNot confirmed in official source: Specific subclass requirements for Form 1005 use.
Common confusion points
Confusing this form with a simple cover letter—they are different functions.
Not knowing whether to send originals *or* copies when the request is vague.
Forgetting to include the application file number on Form 1005 itself.
Thinking you can use this form when your case is still in initial assessment, rather than post-request.
Source transparency
Copyright & Licensing — Australian Government Forms
BrieflyGo links to and explains official public form sources. We are not a government agency, and this page is for general form guidance, not legal advice.
Understand the agreement before you sign it.
Review risky clauses in plain English, fix the document, and keep it moving toward signature.