Refugee Visa (Subclass 200)

The Refugee Visa (Subclass 200) is a permanent humanitarian visa for people outside Australia who face persecution in their home country and have been referred by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for resettlement. It is part of Australia's offshore Humanitarian Program and grants permanent residency to successful applicants and their eligible family members.

This visa is distinct from onshore protection visas (Subclass 866) granted to people already in Australia. The Subclass 200 is for offshore resettlement only — you must be outside Australia when you apply and when your visa is granted.

Digital Lodgement Mandate (November 2025)

From 29 November 2025, you must apply using ImmiAccount (the Department's online portal). Paper applications are no longer accepted except in limited circumstances. This represents a shift to digital-first processing. If you do not have an ImmiAccount, you must create one before applying.

Assisted Passage Service Provider Change

The Assisted Passage service has transitioned from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to Toll Remote Logistics Pty Ltd (Toll). Toll now manages health appointments and travel assistance globally for approved applicants.

Humanitarian Program Allocation (2025–26)

Australia allocates 20,000 humanitarian places annually, with approximately 13,750 allocated to the refugee category (including Subclass 200). In 2023–24, over 12,000 refugees resettled, a 15% increase from prior years, driven by crises in Afghanistan and other regions. Despite this increase, demand far exceeds available places.

• Permanent residency — This is a permanent visa allowing you to stay in Australia indefinitely. You become a permanent resident when you enter Australia, and your permanent residence date counts toward citizenship eligibility.

• Work and study rights — You can work and study in Australia without restrictions. You are protected by Australian workplace law.

• Healthcare access — You can enrol in Medicare (Australia's public healthcare scheme) and access subsidized medical services.

• Social security payments — You can access certain social security payments. Subclass 200 holders are regarded as refugees under the Social Security Act and qualify for a Qualifying Residence Exemption (QRE), allowing immediate access to most payments without waiting periods.

• Free English language classes — You can attend free English language education through the Adult Migrant English Program.

• Travel rights — You can travel to and from Australia for 5 years from the date your visa is granted. After 5 years, you must obtain a Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 or 157) to re-enter Australia. If you travel after the 5-year mark without an RRV, you may be unable to return.

• Family sponsorship — You can propose eligible family members for permanent residence or humanitarian visas (Subclass 202). As a permanent resident, you may sponsor family members to migrate to Australia.

• Settlement support — The Humanitarian Settlement Program provides free support including English language training, education, and employment assistance. The Australian Cultural Orientation (AUSCO) Program offers a free 5-day program (for those over 5) delivered overseas before you arrive, covering life in Australia.

• Citizenship pathway — After 4 years of permanent residence, you are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.