Introduction
Australia is known for its world-class healthcare system, attracting patients from around the globe for specialized medical treatments. If you’re planning to travel to Australia for medical purposes, you will likely need a Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602).
This visa allows you to enter Australia for medical care, organ donation, or to support someone undergoing treatment. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Subclass 602 visa, including eligibility, application steps, processing time, and costs.
What is the Australian Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602)?
The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) is a temporary visa that allows you to stay in Australia to:
Receive medical treatment or consultations
Support someone who needs medical care (if they are under 18 or need assistance)
Donate an organ to someone in Australia
This visa does not allow you to work in Australia, but you can study for up to three months.
Who Can Apply for a Medical Treatment Visa?
You may be eligible for the Subclass 602 visa if you:
✔ Need to travel to Australia for medical treatment or consultation
✔ Are donating an organ to someone in Australia
✔ Are accompanying a patient who is a minor or needs support
✔ Have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government
Note: This visa is not for medical tourism. You must show genuine medical reasons for your visit.
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 602
Before applying, ensure you meet these requirements:
Health condition: Provide medical reports and a treatment plan from an Australian doctor or hospital.
Financial capacity: Show that you can cover treatment costs and living expenses.
Health and character: Meet health and character requirements as set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Genuine intention: Prove that you will return to your home country after treatment.
Also read- student visa australia
Documents Required for Medical Treatment Visa
When applying for the visa, you’ll need:
Passport (valid for the duration of stay)
Medical treatment plan and hospital letter
Proof of funds (bank statements, sponsor letter)
Health insurance details
Evidence of relationship (if accompanying someone)
Completed Form 48ME (Medical Treatment Visa application)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for an Australian Medical Treatment Visa
Applying for the Subclass 602 visa is simple if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather All Required Documents
Collect your passport, medical reports, and financial evidence. Make sure your medical treatment plan is from an Australian hospital or specialist.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Go to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website and create an ImmiAccount. This is where you’ll submit your application online.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the Medical Treatment Visa application form (Form 48ME) online. Provide accurate details about your medical condition, treatment plan, and travel intentions.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload all your supporting documents, including medical letters and financial statements. Make sure they are clear and certified if required.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee
The application fee for the Subclass 602 visa is usually AUD 315. However, some applicants (like organ donors) may be exempt from fees.
Step 6: Submit and Wait for Processing
After submission, you may need to undergo health examinations or provide additional information if requested.
Processing Time for Medical Treatment Visa
Processing times vary based on your case and the completeness of your application. On average:
75% of applications: Processed in 2–3 months
90% of applications: Processed within 4 months
Submitting all documents upfront can speed up the process.
Visa Conditions and Stay Duration
With a Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602), you can:
✔ Stay in Australia for the duration of your treatment (generally 3–12 months)
✔ Study for up to 3 months
✖ Not work in Australia
You must also maintain adequate health insurance during your stay.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
Incomplete documents
Insufficient funds to cover medical costs
Failing to meet health or character requirements
Applying for purposes other than genuine medical treatment
To avoid rejection, always provide accurate and complete information.
Cost of Medical Treatment in Australia
In addition to the visa fee, you need to consider treatment costs. Australian healthcare is top-quality but can be expensive. Make sure you have enough funds or health insurance to cover:
Hospital stays
Specialist consultations
Medication and aftercare
Final Thoughts
Applying for an Australian Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) can seem complicated, but with the right preparation, it’s straightforward. Ensure you have a genuine medical need, proper documentation, and financial capacity before applying.
If you want professional assistance to avoid delays and rejections, consider hiring a registered migration agent who can guide you through the process.
