Australia PR Health Requirements Guide

Meeting Australia's health requirements is mandatory for all permanent residency applicants. Understanding what is required and preparing properly helps avoid delays in your PR application.

Check your overall PR eligibility while preparing for health checks with our PR Points Calculator.

Health Requirement Overview

All applicants for Australian permanent residency must meet health requirements. This ensures that:

• You do not pose a threat to public health in Australia
• You are not likely to require significant healthcare resources
• You can contribute to the Australian community

Health requirements apply to the main applicant and all family members included in the application, regardless of whether they intend to migrate.

Required Medical Examinations

Standard Tests for All Applicants

• Medical examination: Physical check by a doctor
• Chest X-ray: For tuberculosis screening
• HIV test: Blood test for HIV status

Age-Specific Additional Tests

• Applicants 15+: HIV test required
• Applicants 75+: Additional functional assessment
• Children: May have different requirements based on age

Country-Specific Requirements

Applicants from certain countries with higher tuberculosis rates may require additional TB screening regardless of age.

Using Panel Physicians

You must have your health examinations conducted by an approved panel physician or clinic. Regular doctors cannot perform these examinations unless specifically approved.

Finding a Panel Physician

The Department of Home Affairs maintains a list of approved panel physicians worldwide. You can search by country and city on their website.

What to Bring

• Passport or other photo ID
• Referral letter from the Department (if provided)
• Glasses or contact lenses (if you wear them)
• List of current medications
• Medical records for any existing conditions

The Examination Process

Step 1: Book Your Appointment

Contact an approved panel physician to schedule your examination. Some clinics require advance booking, especially in busy locations.

Step 2: Attend the Examination

The examination typically includes:

• Height, weight, and blood pressure measurements
• Vision test
• Physical examination by a doctor
• Chest X-ray
• Blood tests
• Medical history review

Step 3: Results Sent Directly

The panel physician sends your results directly to the Department of Home Affairs. You typically do not receive a copy unless specifically requested.

When to Complete Health Checks

Option 1: After Invitation (Most Common)

Most applicants complete health checks after receiving their invitation to apply. You have 60 days to submit your visa application, so schedule health checks promptly.

Option 2: Before Invitation (My Health Declaration)

You can complete health checks earlier using the myHealthDeclaration system. This can speed up your visa processing after invitation. However, remember that results expire after 12 months.

Family Members

All family members included in your application must complete health checks, even if they are not currently in Australia or do not plan to migrate immediately.

Common Health Issues

Tuberculosis (TB)

TB is taken seriously in Australia. If your chest X-ray shows abnormalities, you may need further testing. Previous TB history does not automatically disqualify you, but you may need additional documentation and treatment proof.

Chronic Conditions

Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma are common and usually manageable. The key is demonstrating that you have the condition under control and will not require excessive healthcare resources.

Mental Health

Mental health conditions are assessed case by case. Having a mental health condition does not automatically prevent approval. The assessment focuses on whether the condition poses a risk to the community or requires significant resources.

Significant Costs

The main concern for chronic conditions is "significant cost" to the Australian healthcare system. There are thresholds for what constitutes significant cost. If your condition is likely to cost less than this threshold, it usually will not be a problem.

Health Examination Costs

Costs vary by country and clinic. Typical ranges:

• Medical examination: $100–$300 AUD
• Chest X-ray: $50–$150 AUD
• Blood tests: $50–$100 AUD
• Total per person: $200–$550 AUD

Costs are paid directly to the panel physician, not to the Department of Home Affairs.

Tips for Health Examinations

• Book early — appointments can fill up, especially in busy locations
• Bring complete medical records — for any existing conditions
• Be honest — disclose all health information truthfully
• Continue medications — do not stop prescribed medications before the exam
• Get good rest — before your examination day
• Follow instructions — from the panel physician carefully

After Your Examination

Normal Results

If your results are normal, they are added to your visa file and processing continues. You typically will not hear specifically about your health results unless there is an issue.

Further Testing Required

If the panel physician identifies concerns, you may be asked for additional tests or specialist reports. Respond promptly to avoid delays.

Health Waiver

In some cases where health requirements are not met, a health waiver may be available. This is complex and typically requires legal or migration agent assistance.

Prepare for Your PR Application

Health requirements are just one part of the PR process. Calculate your points and understand all requirements before applying.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information about health requirements for Australian PR. Requirements change and individual circumstances vary. Always verify with the Department of Home Affairs and approved panel physicians.