The Australian Government has recently introduced an important change to its visa policies, addressing a question often asked by families: Can children born in Australia with health conditions apply for permanent residency (PR)? With the recent updates, the answer is yes — children born in Australia with health conditions can apply for PR.
As of 16th October 2024, children born and residing in Australia who are under 18 years old are exempt from certain health-related requirements under the Public Interest Criteria (PIC) 4005 and 4007. This update provides new hope for families whose children may have previously been ineligible for a visa due to their medical conditions.
What has changed?
Under the previous rules, visa applicants were required to meet strict health criteria to ensure they would not impose significant healthcare or community service costs on the Australian community. These criteria often posed challenges for children with medical conditions or disabilities, potentially leading to visa refusals.
With the recent changes:
- Exemption for children: Children under 18 years old who were born in Australia and ordinarily reside in the country are no longer subject to health criteria that consider potential healthcare or community service costs.
- Inclusivity for families: The exemption ensures that families with children born in Australia are not penalized due to medical conditions or disabilities.
- Retroactive application: The exemption applies to all visa applications submitted before or after 16th October 2024.
Why is this update important?
This policy change reflects a compassionate approach, recognizing that children born in Australia are an integral part of the community. It allows them to:
- Apply for permanent residency without being disadvantaged by health conditions.
- Stay with their families and continue contributing to Australian society.
- Access opportunities for a stable future in the country they call home.
What should families do next?
If you have a child born in Australia who has faced visa application challenges due to health-related concerns, this update may open new doors. To take advantage of the updated rules:
- Review your application: Ensure your child’s birth and residency in Australia are well-documented.
- Talk to a migration agent or lawyer: Consult with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer to understand how this exemption applies to your family’s specific situation.
- Submit or update applications: If your child’s visa application was previously refused, consider reapplying under the updated criteria.
A good change on immigration
This update to the health-related visa criteria underlines the Australian Government’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness. By exempting children born and residing in Australia from certain health-related requirements, families now have greater security and clarity in their immigration journey.
How can we help you?
For families navigating these changes, our migration experts are here to help. Contact us today to understand how this policy update can benefit you and your loved ones.
You can contact us by calling +61 8 8351 9956, emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or booking an appointment through our website.
Sources:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/health
