Australia offers a world-class healthcare system and is home to some of the most advanced medical technologies and specialists. If you’re outside Australia and need to travel for medical care, or you want to support someone receiving treatment, the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) is the right visa for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for the 602 visa – from eligibility to the documents you need, fees, and how to apply step-by-step.
What Is the Subclass 602 Medical Treatment Visa?
The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) is a temporary visa that allows people to:
Travel to Australia to receive medical treatment or consultations
Support someone who is undergoing medical treatment in Australia
Donate an organ to someone in Australia
Stay for short periods for medical reasons, including check-ups and surgery
This visa is also suitable for individuals who are already in Australia but need to extend their stay for continued treatment.
Who Can Apply for the Subclass 602 Visa?
To apply for this visa, you must fall under one of the following categories:
You need to enter or stay in Australia for medical treatment or consultations
You’re accompanying a patient or relative receiving treatment
You intend to donate an organ to an Australian citizen or resident
You are over 50 years old and refused a permanent visa due to health grounds, but are being supported by a relative in Australia
Key Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602, you must:
Have a genuine medical reason to travel to Australia
Not pose any public health risk to the Australian community
Prove that you can support yourself financially during your stay
Have a valid passport and health insurance
Not hold a visa with a “No Further Stay” condition (unless waived)
You must also not be travelling to Australia for surrogacy arrangements, which is not allowed under this visa category.
What Documents Do You Need?
Here’s a checklist of documents typically required for the 602 visa application:
Valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
Medical records or referral letter from a recognised doctor or hospital
Confirmation of your treatment appointment in Australia
Letter from the hospital accepting to provide treatment (if applicable)
Proof of funds to support your stay (bank statements, sponsor details)
Health insurance for your stay in Australia
Character documents (police clearance certificates if required)
Invitation letter or support letter from someone in Australia (if applicable)
Tip: Include certified translations for any non-English documents.
How to Apply for the Subclass 602 Medical Visa – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before applying, gather all your medical documents, passport, financial evidence, and travel plans. Get a letter from your treating doctor or hospital in your home country.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Head to the official Australian immigration website and create an ImmiAccount to begin your visa application process online.
Step 3: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Log into your ImmiAccount and select Subclass 602 Medical Treatment Visa. Fill out the online form carefully, making sure all the details match your documents.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload all supporting documents. Make sure they are clear, complete, and readable.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Most applicants don’t need to pay a visa application fee for Subclass 602. However, it’s important to check your individual situation through ImmiAccount.
Step 6: Submit and Wait
Once submitted, you’ll receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN). You can use this to check the status of your application.
Processing Time for Medical Treatment Visa
Visa processing time can vary based on your personal circumstances, but most applications are processed within:
75% of applications: Within 24 days
90% of applications: Within 40 days
To avoid delays, ensure all your documents are complete and accurate at the time of submission.
Can You Extend Your Stay?
Yes, if you’re already in Australia on a 602 visa and need more time for treatment, you can apply for another 602 visa from within the country, provided your current visa doesn’t have a “No Further Stay” condition.
Benefits of the Subclass 602 Visa
Stay in Australia for the duration of your medical treatment
Enter and leave Australia multiple times (if granted multiple entry)
Be accompanied by a support person or carer
Access Australia’s advanced healthcare and medical facilities
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking medical treatment, consultation, or need to accompany a loved one to Australia, the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) offers a straightforward and supportive pathway. Whether you’re coming from India, the Middle East, or any part of Asia, the Australian government ensures a safe and humane system for temporary medical stays.
Always apply well in advance, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, and submit complete documentation. For a smoother process, consider seeking help from a registered migration agent who specialises in medical visas.
