Your MSIC application moves through several stages, from when you first apply online through to collecting your finished card. This article explains each stage in plain English and gives you a general idea of how long the process takes.
How long does it take overall?
Most MSIC applications take approximately 6–8 weeks from when you lodge your form at Australia Post to when your card is ready to collect. This is an estimate only, and some applications take longer — usually when the background check requires additional information. Several different organisations are involved in the process, and 1-Stop is not able to speed up individual applications.
You'll be kept informed as you go. Once your application is lodged, you'll receive an SMS and/or email notification as your application progresses through each stage, so you don't need to keep checking your portal for updates.
The stages of your application
1. Apply online. You register and complete your application on the MSIC portal at msic.1-stop.biz, then print your application form.
2. Lodge at Australia Post. You take your printed form, your identity documents, and an MSIC-quality photo to an EIS-enabled Australia Post outlet. Your application isn't considered lodged until this step is complete. You have a limited time to lodge after printing your form, so it's best to do this promptly. Once lodged, you'll start receiving SMS/email notifications as your application moves through the remaining stages.
3. Background check (AusCheck). Once lodged, your application is sent to AusCheck for a background check. This check is conducted by AusCheck, which is part of the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs — not by 1-Stop. A straightforward background check typically takes 1–10 business days, though some take longer if AusCheck needs to verify additional information. Because this stage is handled by AusCheck and is outside 1-Stop's control, 1-Stop cannot speed it up or guarantee a timeframe. If you have questions specifically about your background check, you can contact AusCheck directly:
- Phone: 1800 287 243
- Email: auscheck@homeaffairs.gov.au
- Website: www.homeaffairs.gov.au
4. Card manufacturing. Once your application is approved, your card details are sent for production. Manufacturing usually takes 1–3 business days.
5. Printing and dispatch. Your card is printed and dispatched to your nominated Australia Post outlet. Delivery to the outlet usually takes 2–10 business days from dispatch.
6. Collection. When your card arrives, you collect it from your nominated Australia Post outlet. Bring photo ID and your collection slip (the last page of your lodgement form, which can also be re-downloaded from your MSIC portal). If you're collecting a renewal or replacement card, also bring your previous card, or a Statutory Declaration explaining why you can't present it.
If something needs attention
Most applications move through the stages above without any issues. Occasionally an application needs extra attention — for example, if AusCheck requests further information (such as evidence of place of birth), if a visa check (VEVO) is still pending for visa-holder applicants, or if there's a document verification issue. In these cases, 1-Stop will contact you directly to let you know what's needed. Responding promptly helps avoid delays.
If your card hasn't arrived at your nominated outlet within 15 business days of dispatch, contact the 1-Stop Help Desk and we'll follow up with Australia Post.