How to Apply for a Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) in 2025: A Complete Guide

If you or someone you know requires medical treatment that is not available in your home country, Australia offers an excellent option: the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602). This visa allows individuals to travel to Australia for medical treatment, consultations, organ donations, or to accompany someone needing medical care. Applying for a Subclass 602 visa in 2025 involves several steps, eligibility checks, and detailed documentation. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your application smooth and successful.

What is the Subclass 602 Visa?
The Subclass 602 Medical Treatment Visa is a temporary visa designed for individuals who need to travel to Australia for medical treatment or consultations. It also covers cases where a person needs to donate an organ or support a patient during their medical treatment.

Who Should Apply for the 602 Visa?

• Individuals needing medical treatment or consultations in Australia
• Those donating organs to a person in Australia
• Persons accompanying a patient, such as a minor or dependent
• Individuals coming to Australia under a formal arrangement for medical care

Health Condition and Medical Necessity
You must have a genuine need for medical treatment or consultations that cannot be reasonably provided in your home country.

Proof of Arrangements
Applicants must show formal arrangements with a hospital or medical institution in Australia. A letter from the treating doctor or medical institution is required.

Financial Ability
You must demonstrate that you can support yourself (and any accompanying family members) during your stay, including covering treatment costs unless it is covered by another entity.

No Risk to Public Health
You must not pose a public health risk to the Australian community. A medical assessment or chest X-ray might be required.

Temporary Stay Intention
You must intend to stay temporarily and comply with the visa conditions, showing strong ties to your home country as evidence of your intent to return.

No Outstanding Debts
You must not owe money to the Australian Government or must have made arrangements to pay any outstanding debts.

Identity Documents

• Valid passport copies
• Birth certificate or national ID (if applicable)

Medical Treatment Details

• Detailed letter from the Australian hospital or medical practitioner outlining the diagnosis, treatment plan, and estimated duration
• Proof of any payment arrangements or insurance coverage for medical costs

Financial Evidence

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Evidence of financial support if treatment is sponsored by an organization or family member

Character and Health Requirements

• Police certificates (if requested)
• Health examinations and X-rays (if required)

Organ Donor Specific Documents (if applicable)

• Letter from a specialist regarding organ donation compatibility
• Consent forms

Supporting Documents for Accompanying Person (if applicable)

• Relationship proof to the patient
• Statement explaining the necessity of accompaniment

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents
Prepare all documents listed above. Make sure they are translated into English if they are in another language.

Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
To apply online, you must create an ImmiAccount on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.

Step 3: Complete the Visa Application Form
Log into your ImmiAccount and complete the visa application form (Form 48ME).

Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload all the required documents electronically through your ImmiAccount. Ensure documents are clear and readable.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
As of 2025, the application fee for the Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602 is AUD 325. Some applicants (such as those coming under government agreements) might be eligible for fee waivers.

Step 6: Attend Health Examinations (If Required)
If requested by the Department, attend a health examination with an approved panel physician.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision
Visa processing times vary but typically range from 20 to 45 days depending on the complexity of the case.

Visa Conditions

• You cannot work while holding this visa.
• You may study for up to three months.
• You must comply with the purpose of your visa stay.
• Overstaying the visa can lead to serious legal consequences.

Accompanying Family Members
Family members accompanying a patient must apply for their visa individually. Their application must clearly state their role in supporting the patient during treatment.

Extensions and Further Stay
You may apply for another visa if you need to extend your stay for continued medical treatment. Applications should be submitted before your current visa expires.

Incomplete Documentation
Failure to provide all required documents or inadequate financial proof often leads to rejection.

Public Health Concerns
If the applicant poses a risk to the Australian community’s health, the visa is likely to be refused.

Non-Genuine Temporary Entrant
Applicants who cannot prove strong ties to their home country or who are suspected of intending to overstay their visa are likely to be refused.

Consult with a Medical Migration Specialist
If your case is complex, consulting an immigration specialist experienced in medical visas can improve your chances.

Clear Communication with Medical Providers
Ensure that your hospital or clinic provides clear, detailed letters that match your application details.

Provide Thorough Financial Evidence
Show clear proof that you have sufficient funds to cover both treatment and living costs in Australia.

Respond Quickly to Department Requests
If the Department asks for additional information, respond promptly to avoid delays.

Travel to Australia
You can now travel to Australia on the date allowed on your visa grant notice. Make sure to have a copy of your visa grant letter while traveling.

Start Medical Treatment
Attend your scheduled medical appointments. Make sure to comply with the conditions of your visa during your stay.

Prepare for Return
Once your treatment is complete, you should leave Australia before your visa expires unless you have lodged a valid application for another visa.

Conclusion

The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) is a compassionate and valuable option for individuals needing specialized healthcare not available in their home countries. Though the process involves careful preparation and a detailed application, it offers a way to access world-class medical services in Australia. By understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing accurate documentation, and maintaining clear communication with both your healthcare providers and the Australian immigration authorities, you can maximize your chances of a successful application. Planning thoroughly and acting early will ensure you or your loved ones receive the necessary medical care without unnecessary delays.