Carer Visa Australia Subclass 116 and 836
The Carer Visa allows eligible applicants to migrate to Australia to provide long term care and support to a close family member with a serious medical condition.
The visa pathway depends on whether the applicant applies from outside Australia Subclass 116 or inside Australia Subclass 836.
Visa Aid assists families by assessing eligibility, medical requirements, and sponsorship obligations to ensure applications meet Home Affairs criteria.
Carer Visa Subclasses
Subclass 116
For applicants outside Australia at the time of application and decision.
Subclass 836
For applicants inside Australia at the time of application and decision.
Both visas grant permanent residence if approved.
Duration and Cost
Duration
Permanent residence
Government Application Charge
From AUD 2,065
Additional costs may apply for dependants and assessments
Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed before lodgement.
Who Can Apply for a Carer Visa
You may be eligible if:
You are a close relative of the person requiring care
The sponsor has a long term or permanent medical condition
The required care cannot be reasonably obtained in Australia
You are willing and able to provide ongoing care and support
Eligible relationships include parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, or step equivalent.
Sponsorship Requirements
The sponsor must:
Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
Be at least 18 years of age
Provide evidence of the medical condition
Demonstrate the need for substantial ongoing care
Medical assessments must be conducted by approved authorities.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must meet Australian health and character standards.
This includes medical examinations and police certificates for all applicants aged 16 and over.
Failure to meet these requirements may result in refusal.
This also holds true for any member of your family unit who is listed on your application, regardless of whether they are moving abroad.
How Visa Aid Can Assist
Initial eligibility assessment
Guidance on medical evidence and reports
Sponsorship requirement review
Accurate visa application preparation
Ongoing support throughout processing
Visa Aid does not guarantee approval. All decisions are made by the Department of Home Affairs.
Need Support With a Carer Visa Application
Carer visas are complex and assessed strictly.
Book a consultation with Visa Aid to determine whether this pathway is suitable for your family before applying.