Skilled visa health examinations: follow the HAP ID and clinic instructions

Home Affairs may require health examinations for the main applicant and family members. The Department supplies the required examination list and a HAP ID. The clinic reports the medical results; applicants should focus on accurate history, correct identity and prompt completion.

Key points

  • Use the HAP ID and examination list issued for the individual applicant.
  • In Australia use Bupa Medical Visa Services; overseas use an approved panel physician or clinic.
  • Notify Home Affairs through ImmiAccount if the requested timeframe cannot be met.
  • Disclose medical history truthfully; do not self-diagnose the immigration outcome.

How the process normally works

  1. Complete the health declarations in the relevant application or eligible upfront process.
  2. Receive a HAP ID and the list of examinations required for each person.
  3. Book with Bupa in Australia or an approved panel clinic overseas.
  4. Take the HAP ID, passport and any requested medical information to the appointment.
  5. Complete additional tests or information requests if the panel clinic or Department asks.
  6. Monitor ImmiAccount; the clinic transmits the results through the approved system.

Before the appointment

  • Check that the name, date of birth and passport match the application.
  • Read the clinic's preparation instructions and bring spectacles or medication lists if requested.
  • Collect relevant specialist reports for a known condition, without hiding or altering history.
  • Check pregnancy-related examination guidance with the clinic and a treating doctor.
  • Cancel or reschedule promptly if unable to attend.

Timing and validity

Medical results have limited validity and visa processing time is uncertain. Upfront examinations can expire before a decision. Follow Home Affairs timing guidance for the exact visa rather than assuming “earlier is always faster”. If a request letter sets a deadline that cannot be met, attach an explanation and appointment evidence through ImmiAccount as instructed.

Family members

Health instructions can apply to accompanying applicants and, in some cases, non-migrating family members. Do not omit a family member to avoid examinations. Read the exact visa step-by-step page and each person's generated health referral.

When to obtain advice

A significant or ongoing condition, need for community services, public-health issue, uncertain family-member requirement or prior adverse assessment can require individual legal analysis. A general website cannot determine a health waiver or likely decision.

Official sources to check before acting

These pages control over any summary on this website. Recheck them when you submit an EOI, accept a nomination or lodge a visa application.

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Important Notice: The content on this page is for general information only. Australian visa policies and requirements are subject to change at any time. Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current and accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I book a visa medical before Home Affairs asks?
Follow the exact visa and Home Affairs timing guidance. Some applicants may be able to organise examinations upfront through My Health Declarations, but do not book without a HAP ID and the correct examination list.
Where are visa medicals completed?
In Australia, Home Affairs directs applicants to Bupa Medical Visa Services. Outside Australia, examinations must be completed by an approved panel physician or clinic.
Do non-migrating family members ever need examinations?
They may, depending on the visa and instructions. Declare all family members accurately and follow the individual ImmiAccount or request-letter requirements.
Does a health condition automatically mean refusal?
Not every condition has the same outcome. The assessment is fact-specific and can involve costs, public-health or service-access considerations. Obtain registered legal or migration advice for a significant issue.