Medical Treatment Visa 602: Your Complete Guide to Healthcare Access in Australia

Need medical care in Australia? Learn how to apply for the Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602 – eligibility, documents, process, and tips for approval.

Jun 19, 2025 - 15:18
 2
Medical Treatment Visa 602: Your Complete Guide to Healthcare Access in Australia

Seeking world-class medical treatment in Australia? The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) offers international patients the opportunity to travel to Australia for medical care, consultations, organ donation, or to support someone receiving treatment. If you or a loved one need urgent or planned healthcare services in Australia, this visa might be your best route.

In this guest post, you’ll find everything you need to know about this visa – from eligibility and documentation to anchor-rich tips to help improve your visa approval chances.

What Is the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602)?

The Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602 explained is a temporary visa that allows you to travel to or stay in Australia:

  • For medical treatment or consultations

  • To support someone needing medical care

  • As an organ donor or accompanying donor

Unlike visitor visas, this category is specifically designed for health-related travel, offering greater flexibility for patients and their carers.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible to apply for the 602 visa if:

  • You need medical treatment in Australia

  • You are accompanying a patient (like a minor or disabled adult)

  • You are donating an organ to an Australian citizen or permanent resident

  • You are already in Australia and can’t leave due to medical reasons

Note: This visa does not permit work or long-term residence and typically does not offer Medicare access unless there's a reciprocal health care agreement.

Documents Required for Medical Treatment Visa 602

Here’s a handy checklist of essential documentation:

Document Type Examples
Passport Valid passport with photo and details page
Medical Reports Diagnosis, treatment plan, or hospital referral
Treatment Estimate Letter from Australian hospital/clinic with cost and duration
Financial Proof Bank statements or sponsor letter showing ability to pay
Identity Docs Birth certificate, national ID
Support Docs (if applicable) Organ donor proof, patient-carer relationship, consent forms
Health Insurance Valid travel or international medical coverage

Visa Fees and Processing Time

  • Application Fee: $315 AUD (subject to change)

  • Processing Time: Typically 20–50 days, depending on urgency and documentation quality

There’s no additional charge if you apply from outside Australia, but additional charges for health checks and police clearance may apply.

For more up-to-date pricing, visit the official Department of Home Affairs website.

How to Apply for a Medical Visa 602

  1. Create an ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

  2. Complete the online form

  3. Upload required documents

  4. Pay the fee

  5. Await outcome via email or portal

If you are already in Australia, ensure you apply before your current visa expires.Can You Be Sponsored?

Yes, you can be financially sponsored by an Australian citizen, PR holder, or organization, especially if you cannot pay for treatment yourself.

Anchor Text Opportunity:
How sponsorship works for the 602 visa

Key Features of the Subclass 602 Visa

  • Stay length is based on your treatment plan

  • Multiple entries may be allowed (if applying outside Australia)

  • No work rights (unless special permission is granted under rare circumstances)

  • No access to public healthcare unless covered by reciprocal healthcare agreements (e.g., UK, NZ, Ireland)

Common Reasons for Refusal

  • Incomplete or false documents

  • Insufficient funds

  • Vague or unverified treatment plans

  • Intention to remain in Australia for non-medical reasons

Tips for a Successful Medical Visa Application

  1. Submit detailed treatment letters from Australian hospitals

  2. Demonstrate ability to pay for both treatment and living costs

  3. Ensure all documents are translated and certified

  4. Apply early to allow for delays, especially if your treatment is time-sensitive

  5. Consult a registered migration agent if unsure

 Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one needs medical treatment in Australia, the Medical Treatment Visa 602 provides a compassionate and flexible path to access healthcare services. Whether you're an international patient, organ donor, or family member offering support, understanding the visa's requirements and process is essential for a smooth journey.