The Carer Visa (Subclass 836) is a permanent visa that allows individuals to stay in Australia to provide care for someone with a long-term medical condition who has no reasonable access to care options in the country. This article serves as a comprehensive guide for both applicants and sponsors, outlining the eligibility criteria, application process, and obligations associated with the Carer Visa.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be eligible for the Carer Visa (Subclass 836), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be in Australia when applying and when the application is decided.
2. Be a carer for an Australian relative or a member of their family who lives with them and requires care.
3. Have an eligible sponsor.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors

Sponsors for the Carer Visa (Subclass 836) must meet the following criteria:

1. Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
2. Be a near relative or relative of the applicant.
3. Agree to support the applicant and their family for the first two years in Australia.

Application Process for Applicants

The application process for the Carer Visa (Subclass 836) involves the following steps:

1. Organize a Bupa Medical Certificate: The applicant's Australian relative who needs care or their family member who lives with them must be assessed by Bupa Medical Visa Services and obtain a medical certificate stating their medical condition and the level of care required.
2. Gather Documents: Applicants must provide accurate and complete documents to support their application. These documents may include identity documents, financial documents, medical assessment documents, and proof of relationship with the Australian relative.
3. Submit Application: Complete and submit Form 47OF (Application for migration to Australia by other family members) along with all required documents. The application must be submitted on paper and sent to the Child and Other Family Visa Processing Centre in Perth.
4. Pay Application Fee: Pay the first instalment of the visa application fee using the online portal payment function in ImmiAccount. Additional costs may apply for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.
5. Provide Additional Information: If requested, provide any additional information or documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
6. Await Visa Outcome: Once the application is submitted, the applicant must await a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. Processing times for the Carer Visa (Subclass 836) can be lengthy due to high demand.

Obligations for Applicants

Applicants who are granted the Carer Visa (Subclass 836) must fulfill the following obligations:

1. Obey all Australian laws.
2. Notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes to personal information, such as phone number, address, or passport details.
3. Comply with visa conditions and ensure all family members included in the application do the same.

Obligations for Sponsors

Sponsors of the Carer Visa (Subclass 836) have the following obligations:

1. Provide support, accommodation, and financial assistance to the visa holder and their family members for the first two years in Australia.
2. Comply with sponsorship obligations for the duration of the sponsored period.
3. Notify the Department of Home Affairs if unable to continue meeting sponsorship obligations or if there are any changes in circumstances.

The Carer Visa (Subclass 836) offers a pathway for individuals to immigrate to Australia to provide care for someone with a long-term medical condition. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and obligations associated with this visa, applicants and sponsors can navigate the immigration process more effectively. It is important to ensure that all requirements are met and accurate information is provided to increase the chances of a successful visa outcome.