Temporary Protection visa 785
Three-year protection visa for people who arrived without a visa or were not immigration cleared. General information only.
In force
Who it is for
People in Australia who arrived without a valid visa or were not immigration cleared, and who engage Australia's protection obligations. This page is general information only.
Main requirements
- Be a refugee or meet the complementary protection criteria.
- Not barred from applying (for example unauthorised maritime arrivals need the bar lifted; previous protection refusals or cancellations can bar an application).
- Identity, security, health and character.
Where you apply from
In Australia, with all family members included 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.
- Get specialist help first
Protection matters need a specialist. Free help may be available from community legal services.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent only an agent with specialist protection experience should act; otherwise we refer you to free services. - Review rights
A refusal can usually be reviewed at the Administrative Review Tribunal within strict time limits.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains the deadline in your letter.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| Application lodged in Australia | A$50 |
| In immigration detention and not immigration cleared | Nil |
Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs Global visa processing times. A guide only, not a promise.
| Processing time | Not published. Home Affairs processing times |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Protection claims not accepted.
- Application bar not lifted.
- Identity not established.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- General
Recent and upcoming changes
- 14 February 2023
Holders who arrived on or after this date may apply for a further TPV or SHEV; earlier arrivals may be eligible for Resolution of Status (851).
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.