Australia Health Requirements Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Key Takeaways:

• Visa applicants must meet health standards to protect public health, control costs, and preserve access to services.
• Health examinations may be required based on the type of visa, planned stay, activities, and country of origin.
• Use ImmiAccount to check and arrange health exams with a HAP ID, or await contact for paper applications.

Imagine preparing for an exciting new chapter in Australia, a land of vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and top-notch health standards. But before you pack your bags, there’s an important step you must take: ensuring you meet Australia’s health requirements. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or family, understanding and fulfilling these health prerequisites is crucial for your visa application process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about meeting Australia’s health standards, ensuring you and your loved ones are ready for your big adventure Down Under.

Australia’s rigorous health requirements are designed to protect its community’s well-being and sustain its excellent healthcare system. By following these guidelines, you help maintain public health safety and ensure equitable access to healthcare and community services for all residents. From understanding why these requirements exist to the specifics of health examinations, this guide will equip you with all the information you’ll need. So, let’s dive into the essentials of Australia’s health requirements and how to navigate them successfully.

What are Australia’s Health Requirements for Visa Applicants?

Australia is known for its high health standards. To maintain these, most visa applicants must meet certain health criteria. This is known as ‘meeting the health requirement,’ and it often involves a health assessment as part of the visa application process.

Why Do You Need to Meet Australia’s Health Requirement?

Visa applicants must meet these health standards to:

• Protect the Australian community from public health risks, especially diseases like active tuberculosis.
• Control expenditure on services such as social security, benefits, allowances, and pensions.
• Ensure Australian citizens and permanent residents can access health and community services, which may be limited.

Most visa applicants, along with their family members, even if they are not migrating, may need to meet these requirements based on the type of visa applied for.

What Conditions Must You Be Free From?

To meet the health requirement, you must be free from any disease or condition that:

• Incurs significant healthcare and community service costs to the Australian community.
• Limits access to healthcare and community services by placing a demand on those services, termed as ‘prejudicing access.’

What Happens During a Health Examination?

To prove you meet the health requirements, you might need to undergo health examinations. A Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) will assess your examination results. If you have a significant medical condition, the MOC will determine whether the condition is likely to:

• Threaten public health.
• Resulting in significant healthcare and community service costs.
• Place a demand on healthcare or community services that are in short supply.

How Does the MOC Assess Your Condition?

The MOC evaluates what services a hypothetical person with a similar condition would need. Their assessment is based solely on your medical situation.

Important Note:
“When the MOC gives us advice, they can only consider your medical situation, not your other personal circumstances. For instance, the MOC cannot consider whether having private health insurance or sufficient funds for treatment will impact your use of available public services.”

Could You Be Asked to Sign a Health Undertaking?

In some cases, the MOC might recommend that you sign a health undertaking. This is a formal agreement to meet specific health-monitoring requirements after your arrival in Australia.

For more detailed information, you can visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs.

By understanding these requirements and ensuring that you meet them, you can successfully proceed with your visa application to Australia.

Who Needs Health Examinations for Australian Visas?

Do You Need Health Examinations for Your Visa Application?

If you and your family members are applying for a visa to Australia, you may need to undergo health examinations to meet health requirements. Additional health checks might be necessary if you come from a country with public health concerns such as polio or Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). For further details, you can refer to information about public health threats on Australia’s immigration website.

What Do Permanent and Provisional Visa Applicants Need to Know?

Permanent and provisional visa applicants must have health examinations. This applies to:

• You and any family members applying with you.
• In some cases, family members not accompanying you to Australia might also need these examinations.

What About Temporary Visa Applicants?

Temporary visa applicants may also need health examinations. The need and type of examinations depend on several factors:

• The visa you’re applying for.
• The duration of your stay in Australia.
• Activities planned during your stay.
• The country of application.
• Special circumstances are relevant to your case.
• Any significant medical conditions you might have.

How to Check If Health Examinations Are Required?

For Online Visa Applications:

1. Log in to your ImmiAccount.
2. Open your application.
3. Click the ‘View health assessment’ link in the Application Status section.
4. If examinations are needed, you’ll see an ‘Organise health examinations’ link. If not, there’ll be no link.
5. Click this link to complete your medical history and receive a referral letter containing a HAP ID. You’ll need this ID to arrange health examinations.

For Paper Visa Applications:
Your visa processing officer will inform you if health examinations are necessary. You’ll receive a referral letter with a HAP ID, essential for arranging the examinations.

Have You Had Health Examinations in the Last 12 Months?

You might not need to retake all the health examinations if you had any within the last 12 months. The referral letter will specify which tests you need to complete.

By understanding these criteria and processes, you can better navigate the health examination requirements for your Australian visa application. For more detailed guidelines on arranging health examinations, visit the official Australian immigration website.

What Health Examinations Are Required for Visa Applicants?

Permanent and Provisional Visa Applicants

For those applying for a permanent or provisional visa, specific health examinations are necessary:

• Under 2 years:
• Medical examination
• 2 to under 11 years:
• Medical examination
• TB screening test (TST or IGRA) if from a higher-risk country for tuberculosis or applying for a refugee/humanitarian visa
• 11 to under 15 years:
• Medical examination
• Chest x-ray
• 15 years and older:
• Medical examination
• Chest x-ray
• HIV test
• Serum creatinine/eGFR

Additional Tests: You may need further tests if you fit any of the following situations:

• 15 years or older and planning to be a healthcare professional (doctor, dentist, nurse, paramedic):
• Hepatitis B and C tests
• 15 years or older and planning to work in healthcare, aged care, or disability care from a higher-risk country:
• Latent TB Infection Screening test
• 15 years or older and applying for an onshore protection visa:
• Hepatitis B and C tests
• Syphilis test
• 15 years or older and applying for a refugee visa:
• Syphilis test
• Tests targeting specific health risks
• Pregnant and planning to deliver in Australia:
• Hepatitis B test
• Children for adoption:
• Hepatitis B test
• HIV test

Further tests might be needed if a health condition is identified during the initial examination or visa application process.

Temporary Visa Applicants

Health examination requirements for temporary visa applicants depend on various factors:

• Visa type
• Duration of stay
• Tuberculosis risk in your country
• Your health significance related to planned activities in Australia
• Any special circumstances
• Significant medical conditions found during examinations

Generally Required Examinations:

• Low-risk countries:
• Stay less than 6 months: No health examinations unless special circumstances apply.
• Stay 6 months or more: No health examinations unless special circumstances apply.
• High-risk countries:
• Stay less than 6 months: No health examinations unless special circumstances apply.
• Stay 6 months or more:
  • Medical examination
  • Chest x-ray (if 11 years or older)
  • Serum creatinine/eGFR (if 15 years or older)

Additional Tests: Additional tests might be needed under specific conditions:

• From a high-risk TB country and likely to be in a healthcare or hospital environment:
• Medical examination
• Chest x-ray (if 11 or older)
• Serum creatinine/eGFR (if 15 or older)
• Pregnant and planning to have the baby in Australia:
• Hepatitis B test
• 15 years or older and planning to be a healthcare professional (doctor, dentist, nurse, paramedic):
• Medical examination
• Chest x-ray
• Serum creatinine/eGFR
• HIV test
• Hepatitis B and C tests
• 15 years or older and aiming to work in healthcare, aged care, or disability care from a higher-risk country:
• Medical examination
• Chest x-ray
• Latent TB Infection Screening test
• Serum creatinine/eGFR
• Planning to work (or train) at an Australian childcare center:
• Medical examination
• Chest x-ray
• Serum creatinine/eGFR (if 15 years or older)
• Aged 75 years or older and applying for a Visitor visa (subclass 600):
• Medical examination
• Serum creatinine/eGFR

Note: If you have been in Australia for the last 28 days, this time is considered when calculating the length of stay for health requirements.

Countries with Low Risk of Tuberculosis

Countries considered low-risk for tuberculosis, based on World Health Organization data, include:

Here is the alphabetical list of countries with their flag emojis:

• 🇦🇱 Albania
• 🇦🇸 American Samoa
• 🇦🇩 Andorra
• 🇦🇮 Anguilla
• 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda
• 🇦🇷 Argentina
• 🇦🇲 Armenia
• 🇦🇼 Aruba
• 🇦🇺 Australia
• 🇦🇹 Austria
• 🇧🇸 Bahamas
• 🇧🇭 Bahrain
• 🇧🇧 Barbados
• 🇧🇾 Belarus
• 🇧🇪 Belgium
• 🇧🇿 Belize
• 🇧🇲 Bermuda
• 🇧🇶 Bonaire
• 🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina
• 🇧🇻 Bouvet Island
• 🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands
• 🇧🇬 Bulgaria
• 🇨🇻 Cabo Verde
• 🇨🇦 Canada
• 🇰🇾 Cayman Islands
• 🇨🇱 Chile
• 🇨🇽 Christmas Island
• 🇨🇨 Cocos (Keeling) Islands
• 🇰🇲 Comoros
• 🇨🇰 Cook Islands
• 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
• 🇭🇷 Croatia
• 🇨🇺 Cuba
• 🇨🇼 Curaçao
• 🇨🇾 Cyprus
• 🇨🇿 Czech Republic
• 🇩🇰 Denmark
• 🇩🇲 Dominica
• 🇪🇬 Egypt
• 🇪🇪 Estonia
• 🇫🇰 Falkland Islands
• 🇫🇴 Faroe Islands
• 🇫🇮 Finland
• 🇫🇷 France
• 🇵🇫 French Polynesia
• 🇩🇪 Germany
• 🇬🇮 Gibraltar
• 🇬🇷 Greece
• 🇬🇩 Grenada
• 🇬🇵 Guadeloupe
• 🇬🇺 Guam
• 🇬🇹 Guatemala
• 🇭🇲 Heard and McDonald Islands
• 🇭🇳 Honduras
• 🇭🇺 Hungary
• 🇮🇸 Iceland
• 🇮🇷 Iran
• 🇮🇶 Iraq
• 🇮🇪 Ireland
• 🇮🇱 Israel
• 🇮🇹 Italy
• 🇯🇲 Jamaica
• 🇯🇵 Japan
• 🇯🇴 Jordan
• 🇰🇼 Kuwait
• 🇱🇻 Latvia
• 🇱🇧 Lebanon
• 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein
• 🇱🇹 Lithuania
• 🇱🇺 Luxembourg
• 🇲🇻 Maldives
• 🇲🇹 Malta
• 🇲🇺 Mauritius
• 🇲🇽 Mexico
• 🇲🇨 Monaco
• 🇲🇪 Montenegro
• 🇲🇸 Montserrat
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands
• 🇦🇳 Netherlands Antilles
• 🇳🇨 New Caledonia
• 🇳🇿 New Zealand
• 🇳🇫 Norfolk Island
• 🇲🇰 North Macedonia
• 🇳🇴 Norway
• 🇵🇸 Occupied Palestinian Territory
• 🇴🇲 Oman
• 🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands
• 🇵🇱 Poland
• 🇵🇹 Portugal
• 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico
• 🇷🇪 Reunion Island
• 🇸🇽 Saint Eustatius & Saba
• 🇸🇭 Saint Helena (Ascension and Tristan da Cunha)
• 🇰🇳 Saint Kitts and Nevis
• 🇱🇨 Saint Lucia
• 🇸🇽 Saint Martin (Dutch)
• 🇻🇨 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• 🇼🇸 Samoa
• 🇸🇲 San Marino
• 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
• 🇷🇸 Serbia
• 🇸🇨 Seychelles
• 🇸🇰 Slovakia
• 🇸🇮 Slovenia
• 🇬🇸 South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• 🇪🇸 Spain
• 🇸🇷 Suriname
• 🇸🇯 Svalbard & Jan Mayen
• 🇸🇪 Sweden
• 🇨🇭 Switzerland
• 🇸🇾 Syrian Arab Republic
• 🇹🇬 Togo
• 🇹🇰 Tokelau
• 🇹🇴 Tonga
• 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago
• 🇹🇳 Tunisia
• 🇹🇷 Türkiye
• 🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos Islands
• 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
• 🇺🇸 United States
• 🇺🇾 Uruguay
• 🇻🇺 Vanuatu
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City
• 🇻🇬 Virgin Islands (British)
• 🇻🇮 Virgin Islands (US)
• 🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna Islands

For further details about required health examinations based on your specific visa and circumstances, please refer to the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website. This source provides authoritative information that can help streamline your visa process.

When Should You Complete Health Examinations for Your Visa?

Should You Use My Health Declarations (MHD) Before Applying for a Visa?

The My Health Declarations (MHD) service allows you to complete your health examinations before you submit a visa application. However, do not use MHD if:

• The visa you plan to apply for is not listed in the MHD service.
• You have already lodged a visa application.

Health examination results are typically valid for 12 months. If there’s a delay in processing your application, you might need to redo your health examinations. To avoid unnecessary repetition, refer to the Visa processing times page before deciding to use MHD. Note that you must pay for any health examinations.

To learn how to use the MHD service, refer to the Completing the My Health Declarations form.

If you experience technical issues after following the guidelines in the form, contact us via the ImmiAccount Technical Support Form.

If your circumstances change after submitting your MHD form and before completing your health examinations, inform the panel clinic during your appointment.

Find more information on arranging your health exams.

Can You Include Family Members in the My Health Declarations?

Yes, you can include family members on your My Health Declarations form. Do not include family members who are not migrating with you. After your visa application, the processing officer will inform you if any non-migrating family members need health examinations.

What If You Apply for a Visa After Completing Health Examinations?

If the visa subclass you intend to apply for is not an option in the My Health Declarations form, wait until after applying for the visa to complete your health examinations. You will be notified if health examinations are required.

Do You Need Further Health Examinations for Permanent Visas?

Even if you had permanent health examinations for the provisional visa, you might need additional health examinations for the permanent visa. The visa processing officer will inform you if this is necessary during the second stage of your application.

Examples:

• If you had a Contributory Parent (Subclass 173 or 884) visa:
• You are now applying for Contributory Parent (Subclass 143 or 864).
• If you had a Skilled – Regional (Subclass 475, 487, or 489) visa:
• You are now applying for Skilled – Regional (Subclass 887).
• If you had a Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) or Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494) visa:
• You are now applying for Skilled Regional (Subclass 191) (Regional Provisional stream).
• If you had a Business Innovation and Investment (Subclass 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, or 188) visa:
• You are now applying for Business Innovation and Investment (Subclass 888).

For in-depth official information on health examinations and other immigration inquiries, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

How to Arrange Your Health Examinations for Your Visa

What Do You Need for Health Examinations?

When applying for a visa, you may be required to complete health examinations. If this is necessary, you will receive:

• A list of mandatory examinations.
• An identifier is known as a HAP ID.

You will need your HAP ID to schedule an appointment for these health examinations.

What If You Can’t Complete Your Health Examination on Time?

If you’re unable to complete your health examination within the timeframe specified in your Request for Health Examination letter, notify the Department. You can do this by attaching the details through your ImmiAccount.

Can You Undertake Health Examinations Before Submitting a Visa Application?

If you haven’t yet lodged a visa application but want to complete your health examinations upfront, you might use the My Health Declarations service to get a HAP ID. Refer to the relevant section about “When to have health examinations.”

How to Book Health Examinations in Australia?

In Australia, arrange your health examinations through Bupa Medical Visa Services. You can book your examinations online via their service.

Booking and Modifying Appointments

If you need to cancel or change your appointment:

• Use Bupa’s online booking system.
• Select Modify/Cancel Booking.
• Call Bupa’s Contact Centre at 1300 794 919.

To make changes to a booking, you’ll need the HAP ID used to schedule the original appointment.

When to Call Bupa Directly

Call 1300 794 919 to arrange health examinations if:

• You do not have internet access.
• You need a Carer visa assessment.
• You need a fitness to depart or travel assessment.

How to Arrange Health Examinations Outside Australia?

Outside Australia, you must be examined by one of the Department’s approved panel physicians or clinics.

A panel physician is a doctor or radiologist appointed by the department to conduct health examinations at an approved clinic.

For more detailed information, visit the official government page on arranging health examinations.

What to Bring to Your Health Examinations Appointment

When you go to your health examination appointment for your Australian visa, make sure to bring the following:

• A valid original passport (no digital copies or photocopies are accepted).
• Your HAP ID and the ‘Health Examination List’ letter or the Referral Letter provided by the Department.

If you lodged an online visa application, your HAP ID is in the Referral Letter you download from your ImmiAccount when you apply. For those who lodged a paper visa application or cannot generate a Referral Letter through their ImmiAccount, find your HAP ID in your Health Examination List letter or the equivalent document provided.

Without your HAP ID, the clinic will not be able to locate your case in the health processing system.

Also, bring:

• Prescription glasses or contact lenses if you use them.
• Any existing specialist or other medical reports for known medical conditions.
• Previous chest x-rays, if applicable.

How is Your Health Information Processed?

Health information for Australian immigration is processed through the electronic visa health processing system, eMedical. This system stores data about applicants’ health examinations for Australian visa applications.

eMedical allows panel physicians and clinic staff to save:

• Your medical history
• Digital photos and X-rays
• Examination results

This electronic process eliminates the need for paper-based reports and ensures that health information reaches the Department instantly.

Look for the eMedical logo next to the clinic’s name when searching for clinics that use this system.

What if eMedical is Not Available?

If eMedical is not available at your clinic, download and print these forms to bring to your appointment:

• Form 26 Medical examination for an Australian visa
• Form 160 Radiological report on chest x-ray of an applicant for an Australian visa

What are the Costs Involved?

You’re responsible for all costs related to your health examinations, including:

• Fees for examining physicians or radiologists
• Costs for special tests, investigations, or treatment
• Fees for any specialists you need to see
• Courier fees

Costs can vary by country and are comparable to what you’d pay locally for a comprehensive health examination. Contact the clinic beforehand to ask about specific costs.

Learn more about visa health examination costs in Australia from Bupa Medical Visa Services.

Do Some Applicants Get Exemptions from Fees?

If you’re an accepted Refugee or Special Humanitarian Program applicant (subclass 200, 201, 202, 203, or 204), you don’t have to pay for your health examinations. For applications lodged under the Community Proposal Pilot, the Approved Proposing Organisation covers the costs.

What if You Do Not Have a Valid Passport?

If you don’t have a valid passport, consult your visa processing officer for advice. The following documents may be accepted instead of a valid passport:

For examinations in Australia:

• The passport expired within two years of the health examination date
• Current valid emergency or temporary travel document
• ImmiCard
• Australian State/Territory driver’s license or photo identification card

For examinations outside Australia:

• The passport expired within two years of the health examination date
• Current valid emergency or temporary travel document
• United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Identification document
• ImmiCard

Acceptable Document Combinations

You may also use the following combinations as alternatives:

• National Identity Card and a certified photocopy of your passport photo page
• Referral letter listing your examinations and a certified copy of your passport photo page
• Referral letter listing your examinations with an attached photograph stamped/sealed by the Department
• National Identity Card and a referral letter listing your examinations

We accept National Identity Cards from listed countries, including but not limited to Albania, Argentina, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, and others.

If you cannot provide acceptable alternative documents, contact your visa processing officer for advice before making your appointment.

What Should Family Members Provide?

Permanent visa applicants with non-migrating family members must provide at least two forms of identification, including:

• Birth certificate
• School registration documents
• Student card

For detailed and updated information on identity documents and more, visit the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

What Happens After Your Health Examinations?

Steps After Your Health Check-Up

Once your health examinations are complete, the panel physician will:

• Record the results
• Make a recommendation regarding your health status to the immigration department

It’s important to note that the panel physician will not inform you if you meet the health requirements. The results and recommendations are submitted directly for further assessment.

Understanding Your Health Requirement Status

You might:

• Meet the health requirements, or
• Have your case sent to a Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) for further review

If referred to an MOC, you might be asked to:

• Provide additional information
• Undergo further health examinations

How to Check Your Health Exam Results

Using My Health Declarations

If you used My Health Declarations, be aware that you will not be informed of the outcome until you apply for a visa.

Checking Online Applications

For online applications, you can monitor your health assessment status through your ImmiAccount. Simply select ‘View health assessment’ under the ‘View application status’ section.

Inquiries About Your Health Examination Results

We can’t disclose your examination results until the panel clinic submits them to the Department. To confirm submission, you can contact the panel clinic directly.

If you have further questions about your results after submission, reach out to your visa processing officer.

What If My Health Case Requires Further Review?

Possible Health Case Outcomes

Your health case may be cleared without a referral to an MOC if:

• Your results show no significant health conditions

However, if your case is referred to an MOC, they will determine if you:

• Meet the health requirement
• Will meet the health requirement contingent on signing a health undertaking
• Do not meet the health requirement

Should you not meet the health requirement, your visa will not be granted unless a health waiver is available and approved.

How Long Are Your Health Assessment Results Valid?

• Health assessment results are valid for 12 months from the date of your examination.
• If you are required to sign a health undertaking, it remains valid for 6 months.

Will I Need Additional Health Examinations?

Depending on your health assessment results, further examinations may be necessary. Your visa processing officer will inform you if this is the case.

For comprehensive details about health examinations and visa health requirements, visit the official immigration website.

Stay informed and check your ImmiAccount regularly to ensure a smooth process. If needed, don’t hesitate to reach out to the involved medical and immigration professionals for guidance.

What is a Health Undertaking?

A health undertaking is an agreement with the Australian Government to meet health requirements. This helps in managing significant health conditions with an onshore health provider if needed.

Who Needs to Sign a Health Undertaking?

You may need to sign a health undertaking if you have significant health conditions and you:

• Completed your health examinations outside of Australia
• Are applying for a protection visa

Additionally, you might be required to sign a health undertaking if you are at risk of developing active tuberculosis. For instance:

• You have previously been treated for tuberculosis
• Your health examination chest x-ray is abnormal

Other significant health conditions that may require a health undertaking include:

• Inactive tuberculosis
• HIV
• Hepatitis B or C
• Leprosy

“If you do not sign a health undertaking when requested, we will not grant you a visa.”

How to Sign a Health Undertaking

Your visa processing officer will inform you if you need to sign a health undertaking. To do this:

1. Complete and sign the health undertaking form.

This form is available in multiple languages, such as:

Here is the updated table with the country flag emojis next to the language names:

What Should You Do After Signing a Health Undertaking?

Once you sign a health undertaking, you must:

1. Contact Bupa Medical Visa Services (BUPA) within 28 days of arriving in Australia. You can do this by calling 1300 794 919 (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm AEST) or through the BUPA website.
2. By signing the undertaking, you agree to:

• Attend an appointment with a state or territory health clinic in Australia if required. Bupa will provide the necessary information.
• Complete any further investigation or treatment required.

Keep a copy of your signed health undertaking form for reference.

For protection visa applicants, contact BUPA within 28 days of receiving a Request for Information letter. If requested, attend an appointment with a health clinic in Australia.

Special Health Undertakings for Pregnant Protection Visa Applicants

If you are applying for a protection visa and choose not to complete a chest x-ray while pregnant, you must sign a pregnancy health undertaking. This agreement requires you to undergo a chest x-ray after giving birth. Arrange to have your chest x-ray within 28 days of receiving the Request for Information letter by contacting BUPA.

For more detailed information, refer to the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.

What is a Health Waiver for Australian Visas?

A health waiver is available for some visa subclasses in Australia. If a Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) determines that you do not meet the health requirements, there might be an option to consider a health waiver.

To be eligible for a health waiver, you need to meet all other visa criteria first. Additionally, we must be convinced that granting you the visa will not:

• Result in significant healthcare or community service costs to the Australian community
• Prevent Australian citizens or permanent residents from accessing healthcare or community services that are currently in short supply

You can find more details about significant costs and services in short supply on the official government page.

When is a Health Waiver Not Granted?

There are specific health conditions that disqualify you from receiving a health waiver, including:

• Active tuberculosis
• Any health condition that poses a danger to the Australian community or is a public health threat

How Can You Obtain a Health Waiver?

You do not need to apply for a health waiver on your own. If you fail to meet the health requirements and a health waiver is available for your visa subclass, a visa processing officer will get in touch with you. They will guide you through the next steps.

Here’s what you will need to do if contacted:

• Provide more information on why a health waiver should be granted
• Complete a formal submission template detailing the reasons for exercising the health waiver

Factors Considered for Health Waivers

Each health waiver request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The following factors are taken into account:

• Whether you or any of your family members can reduce the potential cost of your health condition and your dependence on healthcare and community services
• Any compassionate and compelling circumstances that support your case for a health waiver

What Happens After a Health Waiver Decision?

If a health waiver is exercised, we will proceed with processing your visa application. However, if we do not grant a health waiver, your visa application will be refused. The visa processing officer will inform you of the decision.

What Factors Determine If You Meet the Health Requirement for a Visa?

A Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) evaluates if your health condition imposes a significant cost on the Australian community’s health care and community services. The assessment varies based on your visa type:

• Temporary visa applicants: Costs are evaluated over your period of stay.
• Permanent visa applicants: Costs are generally assessed over 5 years, or 3 years if you are aged 75 or older.

For those with permanent or ongoing conditions, the MOC estimates the costs over your remaining life expectancy, up to a maximum of 10 years.

Key Points:

• Having a health condition doesn’t always mean you will fail to meet the health requirement. It depends on the type and severity of your condition.
• If your condition is expected to cost AUD 51,000 or more, it is considered significant.

“We will not grant you a visa if you do not meet the health requirement because your condition is likely to be a significant cost unless a health waiver is available and exercised.”

What Happens If Your Condition Affects Access to Health Services?

The MOC also checks if your condition will prevent Australian citizens or permanent residents from accessing scarce health care or community services. This is referred to as “prejudicing access.”

Based on guidance from the Australian Department of Health, services considered in short supply include:

• Organ transplants
• Dialysis

Can a Health Waiver Help You Get a Visa?

In certain cases, a health waiver might be available. The Department can consider this waiver if they believe granting the visa will not:

• Result in significant cost to the Australian community, or
• Prejudice the access of Australian citizens or permanent residents to health care or community services in short supply.

For more detailed information, check the official Australian Government immigration website.

What Are the Health Requirements for Australian Immigration?

To ensure you don’t pose a risk to public health or endanger the Australian community, meeting the health requirements is essential for visa applicants. Here’s an overview of specific health conditions and their related requirements:

Do I Need a Measles Vaccination to Travel to Australia?

The Australian Government does not require evidence of measles vaccination for visa applications. However, it’s strongly recommended.

• Recommendation: “Measles vaccination is strongly encouraged to protect yourself and others during travel.”
• Advice: Speak to your GP, or travel doctor, or visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

What Are the Tuberculosis (TB) Testing Requirements?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared tuberculosis an epidemic and a global emergency.

• Permanent Visa Applicants: Must undergo TB testing as part of the application process.
• Temporary Visa Applicants: May need TB testing if deemed at risk. Check the health examinations required.

Tuberculosis Testing Details:

• Active Tuberculosis: Highly infectious; testing is essential as part of the immigration process.
• For Applicants Aged 11 and Over: A chest x-ray is mandatory.
• For Applicants Aged 2 to 11: Alternative testing arrangements from high TB risk countries.

Job-related TB Testing:

• Applicants Aged 15 and Over planning to work or study in healthcare fields must undergo latent TB infection screening if from high-risk countries.

Procedure if Evidence of TB is Found:

• Further health examinations will be required if initial tests suggest TB.
• If active TB is diagnosed, visa grants are withheld until treatment is completed and a Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) confirms you are free from TB.
• Inactive TB might still meet health requirements, but signing a health undertaking could be necessary.

Should International Students Be Concerned About TB?

International students from certain regions carry a higher risk for TB compared to Australian-born individuals.

Recommendations:

• Students are advised to follow TB screening and treatment guidelines outlined by the Department of Health.
• Proper treatment ensures that visa conditions remain unaffected.

Do I Need to Get Tested for HIV and Hepatitis?

Who Needs an HIV Test?

• Anyone 15 years or older applying for a permanent visa.
• Those aiming to work or study as doctors, nurses, dentists, or paramedics.

Who Needs a Hepatitis Test?

• Pregnant applicants.
• Individuals applying for an adoption visa.
• Applicants for temporary humanitarian, resolution of status, or protection visas.
• Unaccompanied refugee minors.
• Those intending to work or study in healthcare fields.

Note: “HIV and hepatitis are usually not considered public health threats.” However, if applying for certain temporary visas in healthcare fields, your condition might be evaluated for public health impact.

Do I Need a Yellow Fever Certificate?

Applicants are encouraged to obtain an international vaccination certificate for yellow fever if:

• They are aged one or older.
• They stayed in a yellow fever-declared country for six days before arriving in Australia.

For more details, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Is a Polio Vaccination Certificate Required?

Polio is a highly infectious virus affecting the nervous system.

• WHO Declaration: On 5 May 2014, WHO declared polio transmission a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
• Vaccination Status: Due to high coverage in Australia, the risk is low, but measures are in place to prevent spread.
• Requirement: You may need to provide a valid polio vaccination certificate if traveling from high-risk countries. A visa officer will advise if this is necessary.

Countries of Risk Include:

• Afghanistan
• Pakistan
• Central African Republic
• Chad
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Guinea
• Indonesia
• Kenya
• Madagascar
• Mali
• Mauritania
• Mozambique
• Niger
• Nigeria
• Somalia
• South Sudan
• Yemen

Learn more about polio from the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Are There Special Requirements for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD)?

The WHO announced in December 2015 that countries previously affected by EVD are Ebola-free. Consequently, Australia has relaxed border screening.

• Current Status: No special requirements for entering Australia from previously affected countries.
• Ongoing Measures: Collaboration with the Department of Health and Aged Care continues to monitor the situation.

These health requirements ensure the safety of both the Australian community and incoming travelers. For specific details, always refer to the official guidelines provided by Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs.

What Health Insurance Is Needed For Visa Holders in Australia?

Why Should You Have Health Insurance in Australia?

In Australia, if you incur health care debts, you are responsible for paying them. These debts can affect your future visa applications if left unpaid.

Most visitors to Australia are not eligible for Medicare, meaning they must cover all hospital, medical, and para-medical costs, whether these services are in public or private hospitals.

Who Is Eligible for Medicare?

Medicare eligibility is determined by the Health Insurance Act 1973. It generally covers:

• Australian citizens
• Permanent visa holders
• New Zealand citizens
• Certain applicants for permanent residence visas

Do Visitors Need Private Health Insurance in Australia?

Visitors without Medicare eligibility are strongly advised to arrange private health insurance to cover unexpected medical and hospital care. If healthcare is needed and a person isn’t insured, they will have to pay all costs upfront as a private patient, whether in a public or private hospital.

What should you consider with Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)?

OVHC products often provide suitable health insurance coverage. However, it’s important to check what each product covers, as some may not provide comprehensive coverage for all healthcare needs.

What Are the Costs Associated with Treatment?

Even with guidelines suggesting the minimum health coverage needed, your costs may not be completely covered. You might still have to pay part of the healthcare expenses. It’s advised to seek “Informed Financial Consent” before starting treatment to understand all potential costs and ensure they are covered under your policy.

What Are Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCAs)?

If you’re from a country with an RHCA with Australia, you might be eligible for Medicare during your stay. More details about RHCAs are available on the Services Australia website.

What Evidence of Health Insurance Is Required?

Certain visas require proof of adequate health insurance arrangements. You may need to show a current private health insurance policy from an Australian registered insurer for yourself and any co-applicants.

Where Can You Learn More About Private Health Insurance?

For detailed information on private health insurance, including a list of insurers operating in Australia, visit the Australian Government website.

What Benefit Levels Should Your Private Health Insurance Cover?

It’s recommended to purchase insurance that offers at least the following benefits:

• Public Hospital: Coverage equal to state and territory health authority rates for ineligible patients, including all costs for overnight, day-only accommodation, emergency department fees leading to admission, admitted patient care, and postoperative services.
• Surgically Implanted Prostheses: 100% of the minimum benefit listed in the Private Health Insurance (Prostheses) Rules 2007.
• Pharmacy: Benefits equal to the PBS-listed price in excess of the patient contribution for PBS-listed drugs, both during and post-hospital care.
• Medical Services: 100% of the Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee for admitted medical services.
• Ambulance Services: 100% coverage for ambulance transport when medically necessary for hospital admission, emergency treatment onsite, or inter-hospital transfers.

What Are the Waiting Periods and Exclusions?

Australian registered private health insurers may impose waiting periods:

• 12 months for pregnancy and birth-related treatments
• 12 months for pre-existing conditions
• 2 months for psychiatric treatments, rehabilitation, or palliative care for pre-existing conditions
• 2 months for all other circumstances

Insurers are not required to cover assisted reproductive treatments, elective cosmetic treatments, stem cells, bone marrow, organ transplants, treatments outside Australia, pre-arranged treatments before arrival, or treatments covered by compensation or damages.

What Happens if You Have an Excess, Co-Payment, or Contribution?

Insurers may apply an excess, co-payment, or patient contribution. Note these costs, which can be charged annually or per-treatment basis.

What Is the Importance of Portability?

Portability ensures that when transferring between Australian insurers, your membership length affects waiting periods. For existing members of over 12 months, no further waiting periods apply. For under 12 months, any remaining waiting times must be completed with the new insurer. Insurers must recognize the continuity of cover within 30 days of leaving the previous insurer and provide a clearance certificate within 14 days of policy termination.

What Is an Arrear and How Is It Handled?

Insurers allow a 60-day period from the last financial membership date to pay premiums without terminating the membership. Treatments during periods of arrears won’t be covered unless the arrears are settled.

For more information about health insurance requirements for visa holders, visit the Australian Government’s official website.

Sure, here is a structured list of authoritative and relevant external resources that can help visa applicants understand and meet Australia’s health requirements:

Australian Department of Home Affairs

• Overview and General Information on Health Requirements:
  • Website: Australian Department of Home Affairs
  • Description: This is the main portal for information about various visa types and their specific health requirements. It includes detailed guidelines on who needs to undergo health examinations and why these requirements are in place.

ImmiAccount

• Visa Application and Health Examination Management:
  • Website: ImmiAccount
  • Description: ImmiAccount is the online platform where visa applicants can manage their visa applications, including checking and organizing health examinations using a HAP ID.

Bupa Medical Visa Services

• Booking Health Examinations Within Australia:
  • Website: Bupa Medical Visa Services
  • Description: This service allows visa applicants to book health examinations in Australia. The site includes information on how to arrange and modify appointments, the costs involved, and necessary documentation.

World Health Organization (WHO) Country Health Profiles

• Tuberculosis and Health Risks by Country:
  • Website: WHO Tuberculosis Country Profiles
  • Description: This resource provides detailed information about TB risks by country, which is particularly useful for visa applicants to understand health check requirements based on their country of origin.

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

• General Health Information and Public Health Alerts:
  • Website: Department of Health and Aged Care
  • Description: Provides comprehensive information on public health issues, including vaccinations and health screening recommendations for travelers. It covers diseases such as measles, tuberculosis, polio, and more that may affect visa applications.

These resources are authoritative and directly related to understanding and meeting the health requirements for Australian visas.