Carer Visas
Subclass 836/116
What is the Carer Visa?
The Carer Visas (Subclass 836 & 116) allow individuals to live in Australia permanently to care for a relative who has a long-term or permanent medical condition. The Subclass 836 is for onshore applicants already in Australia, while the Subclass 116 is for offshore applicants.
At Kris Ahn Lawyers, we specialise in guiding families through the complex carer visa process, offering personalised support from eligibility assessments to final visa approval, ensuring your application is well-prepared and meets all requirements.
Key Features of the Carer Visa
Permanent Residency
Visa holders can live permanently in Australia and care for their relative.
Work and Study
Carer Visa holders can work and study in Australia.
Access to Healthcare
Visa holders have access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Pathway to Citizenship
After meeting the residency requirements, Carer Visa holders may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Carer Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Relationship to the Care Recipient
You must be a relative (or a member of their household) of the person requiring care.
Medical Condition Requirement
The care recipient must have a long-term or permanent medical condition, and there must be no reasonable access to care from another Australian relative or government services.
Genuine Need for Care
The care must be needed to support the person with daily living needs and health management.
Health and Character Requirements
Both the applicant and care recipient must meet health and character requirements, including undergoing medical checks and providing police clearances.
The Application Process
1
Assess Eligibility
Ensure the care recipient’s condition meets the medical criteria and that there is a genuine need for care.
2
Gather Documentation
Collect all required documents, including proof of relationship, medical assessments, police clearances, and financial support evidence.
3
Lodge the Visa Application
Submit the visa application, including all required documents and the application fee.
4
Health and Character Checks
The Carer must complete the required health checks and submit police clearance certificates for any country where they have lived for 12 months or more over the past 10 years. The care recipient must obtain a BUPA medical certificate confirming their need for care.
5
Await Decision
The Department of Home Affairs will assess the application. Processing times may vary depending on the completeness of the application and any additional documents requested.
Key Differences Between Subclass 116 and Subclass 836
Subclass 116
For applicants applying from outside Australia (offshore).
Subclass 836
For applicants already in Australia (onshore) on a valid visa.
Health Checks and Police Clearances:
Additional fees for required medical exams and police checks.
Document Translations:
If applicable, fees for translating documents not in English apply.
Application Fees
When applying for a Carer Visa, the following fees may apply:
Visa Application Fee - Base application charge
AUD 2,115
Additional applicant charge 18 and over
AUD 1,060
Additional applicant charge under 18
AUD 530
Processing Times:
Processing times may vary between the two visa types, with Subclass 116 generally taking longer due to offshore processing requirements.
Conditions:
There may be differences in visa conditions, such as travel rights, depending on whether you are applying from inside or outside Australia.
Health and Character Requirements
Health Requirements
The applicant and care recipient must undergo specific health assessments to confirm their eligibility. The care recipient’s medical condition must require long-term care.
Character Requirements
The applicant must provide police clearance certificates from all countries where they have lived for at least 12 months over the last 10 years.
The Role of the Sponsor
The sponsor plays a vital role in the Carer Visa application process:
Sponsorship Requirements
The sponsor must be an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who agrees to support the visa holder.
Financial and Accommodation Responsibilities
The sponsor must demonstrate that they can provide financial support and accommodation for the applicant for the first two years of their visa.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incomplete Documentation
Ensure all required documents, including medical assessments and sponsorship details, are complete and accurate to avoid processing delays.
Misunderstanding Sponsorship Requirements
Be sure the sponsor meets the financial and accommodation support requirements before lodging the visa application.
How Can We Help?
At Kris Ahn Lawyers, we provide expert assistance throughout the Carer Visa (Subclass 836 & 116) application process. We help families navigate the complex requirements, ensuring that all documentation is in order, increasing your chances of a successful outcome. With a high success rate and experience in handling complex cases, we offer personalised service that meets your unique needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can family members be included in the Carer Visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse or dependent children in the visa application, provided they meet eligibility requirements.
Can I apply for Australian citizenship after holding a Carer Visa?
Yes, after holding a Carer Visa and meeting the residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
How long does it take to process the Carer Visa?
Processing times can vary significantly, often taking several years depending on the number of available visa places and the completeness of the application.
Do I need to be onshore to apply for a Carer Visa?
If you are in Australia, you can apply for the Subclass 836 visa. If you are outside of Australia, you must apply for the Subclass 116 visa.
Can I travel freely when on the Carer visa?
Yes, there are no limitations to your travel when your Carer visa is granted.
