| Who is assessed | Usually every person in the application, and sometimes non-migrating family members. |
|---|---|
| What Home Affairs checks | Significant cost, and prejudice to access to health care or community services. |
| Waiver | Only available for some visa subclasses, and only after a health finding. |
| Evidence | Medical reports, treatment plans, private insurance and support arrangements can matter. |
| Timing | Health examinations often take weeks. Do not leave them until the end. |
When a health finding arises
- A condition that may need ongoing or expensive treatment in Australia.
- A condition that may limit access to scarce health or community services for Australians.
- A panel doctor or Medical Officer of the Commonwealth opinion that the requirement is not met.
- A letter from Home Affairs inviting comment before a decision.
What a health waiver is
A health waiver lets Home Affairs grant a visa even though the usual health requirement is not met. It is not available for every visa. Where it is available, the decision maker weighs the circumstances of your case, including family ties in Australia, the nature of the condition, the likely cost, and any arrangements that reduce the impact on Australian health services. Compelling or compassionate circumstances can matter, but there is no automatic grant.
What to do if you receive a health letter
- Read the letter and note the deadline.
- Do not ignore it or lodge a new application without advice.
- Collect up-to-date medical evidence and, where relevant, evidence of private treatment or support in Australia.
- Ask a registered migration agent whether your visa allows a waiver and what to put in your response.
Frequently asked questions
Does every visa have a health waiver?
No. Some visas have no waiver. Others allow one only in limited cases. We check your visa subclass before you respond.
Do my children need health checks too?
Usually yes if they are included in the application. Sometimes non-migrating family members are also considered.
Can private health insurance fix a health finding?
Insurance can be useful evidence, but it does not automatically overcome a significant cost or prejudice finding.
Official sources
Updated October 2026. Visa rules, fees and processing times change often, so always check the official sources before you act.