Sponsoring a Carer to Australia

There are two main subclasses under the Carer Visa programme:

• Subclass 116 (Offshore): For applicants outside Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted.
• Subclass 836 (Onshore): For applicants already in Australia on a valid visa when applying and when the visa is granted.

Both subclasses have similar eligibility requirements, but the applicant’s location is the key difference.

• A settled Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen who is usually resident in Australia
• Must be the person requiring care, or their spouse or de-facto partner living with them
• Care requirements: you, or a family member who lives with you, must be assessed by Bupa Medical Visa Services as having a medical condition which:

• is long term or permanent
• means you need help with practical aspects of daily life for at least 2 years

• You or a family member who lives with you must be unable to reasonably get the care you need in Australia, whether from another relative or an Australian welfare, hospital, or community nursing service.

Sponsors must undertake to provide accommodation and financial support for the carer for the first two years after the carer’s arrival in Australia. The sponsor must also agree to help the carer settle into the community.

Applicants must satisfy a range of requirements, including:

• Relationship: Must be a relative of the person requiring care or a relative of their spouse/partner.
• Willingness: Must genuinely intend to provide ongoing and substantial care.
• Health and character criteria.

Applicants and sponsors must provide comprehensive documentation to prove identity and the nature of their relationship. Required documents can include:

• Birth certificates, passports, and other identification documents
• Marriage certificates or evidence of de facto partnership, if applicable
• Legal documents showing family relationship (e.g., adoption papers)
• DNA testing may be requested if documentary evidence is insufficient

The Carer Visa is subject to a strict annual quota, with only a limited number of places available each year. As a result, processing times can be lengthy, often extending to several years. Applicants should be prepared for delays and manage expectations accordingly.

The high demand and limited places mean that even eligible applications may face long waiting periods.

Carer Visa applications have a relatively high refusal rate. Common reasons for refusal include:

• Insufficient evidence of the medical condition or care requirements
• Availability of alternative care options in Australia (e.g., community services)
• Failure to provide adequate proof of relationship
• Inadequate documentation or failure to meet health and character requirements

Careful preparation and thorough evidence are essential to maximise the chances of approval.

Given the complexity of the Carer Visa process, the strict annual quota, and the high refusal rate, it is strongly recommended to seek advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer. Professional guidance can help ensure all requirements are met, documents are in order, and the application is as strong as possible.

Sponsoring a carer to Australia involves navigating a complex visa process, strict eligibility criteria, and a limited quota system. Prospective sponsors and applicants should ensure they fully understand the requirements, prepare comprehensive evidence, and consider seeking professional legal advice. Careful planning and attention to detail are vital in maximising the chances of a successful Carer Visa application.

For specialised support, Aus Visa Solutions is an expert in Carer Visa applications and has successfully assisted many families to bring carers to Australia. To receive tailored guidance and improve your application’s success, please book your appointment with our expert team today.