Carer Visa

The Carer Visa, encompassing subclass 116 (offshore) and subclass 836 (onshore), remains a vital pathway for family reunification in carers visa in Australia scenarios. This permanent visa enables individuals to relocate or stay in Australia to provide substantial, ongoing care for a relative suffering from a long-term or permanent medical condition. According to the Australian Department of Home Affairs, the relative must have no reasonable access to care from other family members, welfare services, hospitals, nursing homes, or community organisations.

As of December 2025, the program continues with capping and queuing due to high demand exceeding annual places. Paper applications can now be imported into ImmiAccount for easier management (update from July 2025). If you're exploring the carer visa for compassionate reasons, this guide covers eligibility, requirements, and current timelines to help you navigate effectively.

Key Differences: Subclass 116 vs Subclass 836

The primary distinction lies in location:

• Subclass 116 (Offshore Carer Visa): Applicants must be outside Australia when applying and when the visa is granted.
• Subclass 836 (Onshore Carer Visa): Applicants must be in Australia (holding a substantive visa, not a transit visa) when applying and granted.

Both offer permanent residency, unlimited work/study rights, Medicare access, and a pathway to citizenship.

Eligibility and Requirements for Carer Visa

To qualify for either the 116 visa or 836 visa, core criteria must be met:

• Sponsorship: Sponsored by the Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen relative (or their partner) needing care.
• Medical Assessment: The person needing care requires a certificate from Bupa Medical Visa Services confirming a condition causing impairment lasting at least 2 years, needing substantial assistance with daily activities.
• No Alternative Care: Evidence that care cannot reasonably be provided by other relatives in Australia or local services.
• Willingness to Care: Applicant must be willing and genuinely able to provide ongoing care.
• Health and Character: All applicants meet health standards and provide police clearances.
• Assurance of Support: Sponsor provides accommodation and financial support for the first 2 years.

For 116 visa requirements, applicants remain offshore. For 836 visa requirements, a valid substantive visa is essential.

Key facts: No English language requirement, but strong evidence of relationship and care need is crucial.