Scarlett Watson

Australia is known for its world-class healthcare system, modern hospitals, and skilled medical professionals. For many people across the globe, especially those in countries with limited medical facilities, Australia represents hope. Whether you’re seeking urgent surgery, cancer treatment, rehabilitation, or specialist consultation, medical treatment in Australia for foreigners is possible — and in many cases, accessible.

This article will explain how foreign nationals can access medical care in Australia, the visa you need (Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602), and why health access is not just a service — but a basic human right.

Can Foreigners Get Medical Treatment in Australia?

Yes. Foreigners can legally receive medical treatment in Australia, provided they enter on the right visa and meet certain criteria. The Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602) allows people to:

• Travel to Australia for medical consultations or procedures

• Support someone receiving medical care

• Donate an organ

• Visit as a patient under a health agreement between countries

Apply for Medical Treatment Visa with expert help from Immigration Buddy.

Why Choose Australia for Medical Treatment?

Australia is a leading destination for medical travel, offering:

• Highly qualified doctors and surgeons

• Accredited hospitals with advanced technology

• Cancer treatment, transplants, orthopaedic care, cardiac surgery and more

• Clean, regulated facilities with strong patient safety laws

• Respectful, culturally sensitive care for all backgrounds

Human Rights Perspective – Health is a Universal Right

Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, as stated in Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:

Australia honours this principle by allowing people from around the world to enter the country for life-saving or necessary medical treatment — even if they’re not citizens or permanent residents. This includes patients who:

• Cannot get treatment in their home country

• Need advanced procedures not available locally

• Are referred by international medical institutions

• Are participating in humanitarian or medical exchange programs

What is the Medical Treatment Visa (Subclass 602)?

The Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602 is a temporary visa that allows a person to:

• Travel to Australia for medical treatment

• Stay in the country while receiving care

• Return for follow-up care if needed

• Accompany a patient as a support person

You cannot use this visa to:

• Work in Australia

• Study long-term

• Access public health for free (you’ll need private insurance or pay full cost)

Learn more about Best Medical Treatment Visa Australia

Who Can Apply for the 602 Medical Treatment Visa?

You can apply if:

• You need medical treatment in Australia

• You are donating an organ to someone in Australia

• You are accompanying a patient needing treatment

• You are coming under an approved health care agreement between countries (e.g., Nauru, PNG, Solomon Islands)

• You are in Australia and need to extend your visa for medical care

Eligibility Criteria:

• Proof of medical diagnosis and treatment plan

• Letter from an Australian hospital or specialist

• Sufficient financial capacity or sponsor support

• Must not have a condition that is a public health risk

• Meet standard health and character checks

Documents Required

When applying for the Medical Treatment Visa, you need to submit:

• Valid passport

• Medical reports from your home country

• Referral letter from Australian hospital or doctor

• Confirmation of appointment or admission

• Financial documents to prove you can pay for treatment

• Health insurance (if available)

• Form 48ME (visa application) and Form 956 (if using an agent)

• Travel history, visa refusals (if any)

How Much Does Medical Treatment in Australia Cost?

The cost of medical treatment depends on the type of procedure, hospital, and whether you have insurance.

You’ll also need to budget for:

• Flights

• Accommodation (hotel or hospital lodge)

• Medication and aftercare

• Support person’s expenses

Some international agreements may partially or fully cover costs for eligible countries.

How Long Can You Stay on a Medical Treatment Visa?

Visa duration depends on your medical need. Typically:

• Stay period: 3–12 months

• Extensions: Possible with proof of continued care

• Multiple entries: Allowed if treatment is ongoing

Make sure to apply for renewal before expiry if additional treatment is needed.

Can You Bring Someone With You?

Yes. The Subclass 602 visa allows for a support person to accompany the patient. This is often a:

• Parent or guardian (for children)

• Spouse or relative

• Personal carer

The support person must also meet visa and health criteria, and their role must be justified in the application.

Australia’s Ethical Approach to Medical Visas

Unlike some countries, Australia takes a humanitarian view of medical visas. It:

• Welcomes individuals in need of essential care

• Does not discriminate based on nationality, religion, or race

• Upholds patient confidentiality and consent

• Allows for palliative or life-prolonging care in certain humanitarian cases

• Partners with Pacific nations and NGOs for cross-border medical cooperation

This reflects Australia’s strong belief in health equity and compassionate migration policy.

Final Thoughts – Healthcare is Not a Privilege, It’s a Right

Health is life. And no one should be denied the chance to live or heal because of where they were born.

Australia’s Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602 reflects the country’s commitment to global healthcare access and dignity for all people. Whether you’re battling cancer, seeking complex surgery, or just need a second opinion, Australia offers a compassionate and professional environment to heal.

If you or a loved one needs medical care in Australia, don’t wait. Let Immigration Buddy help you access the treatment you deserve.