Subclass 785 Temporary Protection visa (TPV)
People owed protection who arrived unlawfully — a temporary protection status.
The Temporary Protection visa (TPV) (subclass 785) is an Australian residence & other visa. This guide covers who the 785 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (≈ $45) and processing time (Varies), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 785 visa is for
People owed protection who arrived unlawfully — a temporary protection status.
Temporary — policy on permanent resolution of this cohort has changed over time; seek current advice.
Subclass 785 eligibility criteria
- Engage Australia's protection obligations
- Arrived unlawfully (e.g. unauthorised maritime arrival)
- Meet identity, security, health and character requirements
Subclass 785 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Temporary Protection visa (TPV) (subclass 785) is ≈ $45, with an indicative processing time of Varies. Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary (3 yrs) |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore |
| Length of stay | 3 years |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ≈ $45 |
| Processing time | Varies |
| Pathway to PR | Temporary — policy on permanent resolution of this cohort has changed over time; seek current advice. |
Pathway & next steps
Temporary — policy on permanent resolution of this cohort has changed over time; seek current advice.
Many applicants also compare the 790 (Safe Haven Enterprise visa (SHEV)), the 866 (Protection visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 785 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 785 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 785 visa cost?
The Temporary Protection visa (TPV) (subclass 785) base application charge is ≈ $45. Government charges are indicative for 2025–26 and usually change on 1 July — always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 785 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is Varies. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 785 visa lead to permanent residence?
Temporary — policy on permanent resolution of this cohort has changed over time; seek current advice.
Can I work on the subclass 785 visa?
Work rights on the Temporary Protection visa (TPV) (subclass 785): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 785 visa?
People owed protection who arrived unlawfully — a temporary protection status.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change — confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) — official Australian immigration authority