Carer visa 116 / 836
For a relative who will give long-term care to a family member in Australia. Queue about 16 years.
In force
Who it is for
A relative who will provide substantial, continuing care to an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen relative with a long-term medical condition, where the care cannot reasonably be obtained elsewhere.
Main requirements
- The person needing care gets a medical assessment and certificate from Bupa Medical Visa Services.
- Care cannot reasonably be provided by welfare, hospital, nursing or community services, or by other relatives in Australia.
- Sponsor, health and character.
Where you apply from
116 outside Australia; 836 in Australia.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- First enquiry
You tell us your current visa, where you are, your family and any past refusals or cancellations.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent identifies your current visa, its conditions and expiry, and any early risk. - Service agreement
Before any personal advice or preparation, you receive a written service agreement and the OMARA Consumer Guide.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent sets out the work, the fee and the refund policy in writing. No money is taken for visa work before the agreement is signed. - Medical assessment
The person needing care is assessed.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains the impairment rating process. - Lodge and queue
The queue for new applications is estimated at about 16 years.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent prepares evidence that care is needed and not available otherwise.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| First instalment, main applicant | A$2,720 |
| Family member 18 or over | A$1,365 |
| Family member under 18 | A$680 |
| Second instalment, each person | A$2,065 |
Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs other family visas queue release dates, as at 31 August 2026. Read 22 October 2026. A guide only, not a promise.
| Estimated time for new applications | 50% in about 16 years, 90% in not published |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Impairment rating or need for care not proven.
- Other relatives could provide care.
- Care available from community services.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Application
Recent and upcoming changes
No recent changes are listed for this visa. Check the Home Affairs page for the latest information.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.