I just have a quick question regarding peoples recent experiences with obtaining Australian Tourist Visa for Thai nationals.

I have three Thai friends who wish to come and visit Australia for a week in June. I am an Australian living in Sydney.

I have read a lot of posts here and followed the Australian immigration website instructions and helped my friends in their application, including providing evidence i can support them financially for a week, bank statements, we got letter from the employer in Thai showing they have reason to go home etc etc etc.

The three apprilcations (48R) were all lodged by registered mail to the Bangkok embassy address about 3 weeks ago. To date they have heard nothing except they received a call almost immediately (day after) saying the visa charge had to be corrected (which was done instantly and paid then and there).

So many people here seem to have had little pain in tourist visa process if all steps and evidence provided. Im just a little worried as its been three weeks and no response. I know the embassy was shut for a few days due to the unrest in BKK but understand they are still processing applications. My Thai friends have tried calling the embassy for updates but the line seems to be almost always engaged.

Anyone offer any helpful advice?

Thanks in advance.

3 people being supported by the same person just may raise some suspicions with the Embassy....