Subclass 116 / 836 Carer visa
People coming to provide long-term care for a relative (or their family member) with a serious medical condition.
The Carer visa (subclass 116 / 836) is an Australian family & partner visa. This guide covers who the 116 / 836 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (≈ $5,125) and processing time (Several years (queue)), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 116 / 836 visa is for
People coming to provide long-term care for a relative (or their family member) with a serious medical condition.
Permanent residence for the carer.
Subclass 116 / 836 eligibility criteria
- An Australian relative (or their family unit member) with a certified, ongoing medical condition
- The care needed cannot reasonably be provided by other relatives or services
- An eligible sponsor
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 116 / 836 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Carer visa (subclass 116 / 836) is ≈ $5,125, with an indicative processing time of Several years (queue). Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Location | Offshore (116) / Onshore (836) |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ≈ $5,125 |
| Processing time | Several years (queue) |
| Pathway to PR | Permanent residence for the carer. |
Pathway & next steps
Permanent residence for the carer.
Many applicants also compare the 115 / 835 (Remaining Relative visa), the 143 (Contributory Parent visa), the 804 (Aged Parent 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 116 / 836 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 116 / 836 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 116 / 836 visa cost?
The Carer visa (subclass 116 / 836) base application charge is ≈ $5,125. 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 116 / 836 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is Several years (queue). Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 116 / 836 visa lead to permanent residence?
Permanent residence for the carer.
Can I work on the subclass 116 / 836 visa?
Work rights on the Carer visa (subclass 116 / 836): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 116 / 836 visa?
People coming to provide long-term care for a relative (or their family member) with a serious medical condition.