Protection Visas
Overview
Protection visas are for people in Australia who are refugees or who meet Australia’s complementary protection criteria because they face a real risk of significant harm if returned. Which visa you can apply for depends on how you arrived in Australia.
Types of Protection Visas
- Protection visa (subclass 866): a permanent visa for people who arrived in Australia holding a valid visa and were immigration cleared.
- Temporary Protection visa (subclass 785): for people who arrived without a valid visa, were not immigration cleared, or who hold or have held certain temporary protection or humanitarian visas.
- Safe Haven Enterprise visa (subclass 790): a temporary protection visa for the same group of people as the subclass 785.
Key Requirements
- You are a refugee, or you meet the complementary protection criteria under the Migration Act 1958.
- You meet identity, security, health and character requirements.
- Applicants aged 18 or over sign the Australian Values Statement.
- Application bars can apply, for example if a protection visa was refused or cancelled since you last arrived. The Minister can lift some bars.
Reviews
Many protection visa refusals can be reviewed by the Administrative Review Tribunal. The review fee (AUD2,293) isn’t payable when you apply; it’s only charged if the Tribunal affirms the decision. Time limits are strict and can’t be extended, so check your decision letter straight away.
Getting Help
Protection claims are complex and very personal. Get advice early from a registered migration agent or lawyer experienced in protection matters.
Speak With Our Team
Every situation is different. Contact Sydney Migration Agents for advice from a registered migration agent about your options.
- Phone: (02) 5550 1234
- Email: hello@sydneymigration.example
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Visa and Migration
Check Official Sources
Visa rules, fees and income thresholds change regularly, usually on 1 July. Always confirm current requirements with the Department of Home Affairs before you apply.
Book a Consultation
Talk to a Registered Migration Agent
We’ll review your situation, explain your visa options and give you a fixed-fee quote before you commit.
