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Subclass 602

Medical Treatment Visa

The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) is a temporary visa allowing individuals to enter or stay in Australia for medical treatment, consultations, organ donation, or to support a patient.

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The Medical Treatment Visa, commonly known as the subclass 602 or 602 visa, is a vital option for international patients seeking high-quality healthcare in Australia. As of December 2025, this temporary visa remains a flexible pathway for those requiring medical treatment, medical consultations, organ donation, or support for someone undergoing treatment. Whether you're planning medical tourism or urgent care, the medical visa Australia offers access to world-class facilities without the need for permanent migration.

Australia's healthcare system ranks among the best globally, attracting thousands for specialized procedures. The 602 visa ensures you can focus on recovery while complying with immigration rules.

What is the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602)?

The Medical Treatment Visa (subclass 602) is a temporary visa designed for:

  • Individuals seeking medical treatment or consultations unavailable or urgent in their home country.
  • Organ donors traveling to Australia.
  • Family members or supporters accompanying or joining a visa holder for treatment or donation.

This visa replaced older subclasses like 675 and 685, consolidating options into one streamlined category. It allows single or multiple entries, depending on your circumstances, and permits short-term study (up to 3 months).

Unlike visitor visas, the subclass 602 accommodates applicants who might not meet standard health requirements for other visas, provided they arrange private treatment and cover all costs.

Eligibility and 602 Visa Requirements

To qualify for the 602 visa, you must meet key criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs. Here's a breakdown:

Requirement Category Details
Medical Purpose Evidence of arranged treatment, consultation, or organ donation in Australia (e.g., letter from Australian doctor or hospital).
Genuine Intention Must prove the visit is solely for medical reasons and that you will depart Australia after treatment.
Financial Capacity Sufficient funds to cover treatment, living costs, and travel, or evidence of sponsorship.
Health Insurance Adequate private health insurance strongly recommended to cover hospital and medical expenses.
Health & Character Meet character requirements; health exams may be required, but waivers possible for the treated condition.
Support Role Supporters must prove relationship and necessity (e.g., family member or carer).
Age & Nationality Open to all ages and nationalities; no points test required.

 

Key 602 visa requirements include submitting Form 1507 (Evidence of Intended Medical Treatment) signed by a registered practitioner for certain applications. You cannot have unpaid debts to the Australian government or outstanding public health costs.

As of 2025, no major changes have affected eligibility, but always check the official ImmiAccount portal for updates.

Fahad Shamim - Migration & Education Consultant

Fahad Shamim

Education Consultant

As a education consultant, I provide expert guidance on Australian visas and international education, helping clients navigate both with ease.

Phone +61 424 295 050
Email fahad@edvisehub.com

How to Apply for the 602 Visa Application

The 602 visa application process is straightforward and primarily online:

  1. Gather Documents: Passport, medical letters, financial proof, health insurance, and Form 48ME if health exams are needed.
  2. Create ImmiAccount: Apply via the Department of Home Affairs website.
  3. Lodge Application: Online (preferred) or paper form (Form 48R) if outside Australia.
  4. Pay Fees: If applicable.
  5. Biometrics & Health Checks: Provide if requested.
  6. Wait for Decision: Track via ImmiAccount.

Applications can be lodged inside or outside Australia. For urgent cases, priority processing may be available with strong evidence.

Required supporting documents often include:

  • Passport copy
  • Medical correspondence detailing diagnosis, treatment plan, and duration
  • Proof of funds (bank statements or sponsor letter)
  • Overseas health insurance policy

Medical Visa Fee and Costs

The medical visa fee for subclass 602 varies by location:

Applicant Location Base Visa Application Charge (2025) Notes
Outside Australia Free Standard for most offshore applicants.
Inside Australia AUD 380 Applies to onshore extensions or new applications.
Foreign Government Representatives Free Full exemption applies.
Additional Applicants (Family) Included No extra base fee; other charges may apply.

 

Additional costs include health examinations (AUD 300–500), biometrics (AUD 50–100), and private health insurance (varies by coverage). Treatment costs are fully borne by the applicant—no access to Medicare unless reciprocal arrangements apply.

Processing Times for Subclass 602 Visa

Processing times for the medical treatment visa vary based on completeness and urgency. As of late 2025, indicative times (from secondary migration sources and historical data) are:

Percentage of Applications Processing Time
25% 5–7 days
50% 8–20 days
75% 1–2 months
90% 3–4 months

 

Urgent medical cases with compelling evidence (e.g., life-threatening conditions) can be processed faster. Use the official Visa Processing Time Guide Tool for the latest estimates.

In 2024–2025, demand for medical visas remained steady, with Australia granting thousands annually for procedures like surgery, fertility treatment, and specialist consultations.

Benefits and Stay Duration

The 602 visa allows stays tailored to your treatment plan—typically up to 12 months. Multiple-entry visas enable return trips for follow-ups.

Benefits include:

  • Access to Australia's advanced medical facilities
  • Ability to bring support persons
  • Short-term study permission
  • No work rights (except very limited cases)

You must depart before expiry; extensions require a new application.

Conclusion

The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) provides a compassionate and efficient pathway for accessing Australia's excellent healthcare system in 2025. By meeting the 602 visa requirements, preparing a strong 602 visa application, and understanding the medical visa fee structure, you can navigate the process smoothly. Always consult the official Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent for personalized advice. Safe travels and speedy recovery!

FAQS

Q: What is the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602)?

It's a temporary visa for medical treatment, consultations, organ donation, or support in Australia.

Q: How much is the medical visa fee for subclass 602?

Free if applied outside Australia; AUD 380 if inside. Exemptions apply for certain cases.

Q: What are the main 602 visa requirements?

Medical evidence, financial proof, health insurance, and genuine temporary intent.

Q: How long does 602 visa processing take in 2025?

Typically 8 days to 3 months, depending on application completeness and urgency.

Q: Can I extend my subclass 602 visa?

No direct extensions; apply for a new visa if more time is needed.

Q: Can family members apply with me on the 602 visa application?

Yes, as supporters, with evidence of necessity.

Q: Do I need health insurance for the medical visa Australia?

Strongly recommended and often required to cover all treatment costs.

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