The Protection Visa (Subclass 866) is designed for individuals who are seeking asylum in Australia due to a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Australia permanently, access Medicare, enroll in English language classes, and apply for Australian citizenship after a certain period of residence.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Refugee Status: The applicant must establish that they are a refugee according to the Refugee Convention. This means they have a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
- Health and Character: The applicant and any family members included in the application must meet health and character requirements.
- Onshore Application: Typically, this visa is applied for from within Australia.
Application Process:
- Application Submission: The applicant lodges the application, including all required documents such as identity proofs, evidence of persecution, health assessments, and character documents.
- Protection Visa Application Process: The application undergoes thorough processing, including interviews and background checks.
- Protection Status Determination: The Department of Home Affairs assesses the claim for protection and determines whether the applicant qualifies as a refugee.
- Visa Grant: If the application is successful, the applicant receives a protection visa allowing them to stay and work in Australia indefinitely.
Benefits and Privileges:
- Permanent Residency: The visa grants permanent residency status in Australia.
- Live and Work: Allows the applicant to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Healthcare: Access to Australia’s healthcare scheme, Medicare.
- Education: Eligibility to enroll in English language classes.
- Travel: Multiple entry and exits from Australia.
- Citizenship: Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after a certain period of residence.
FAQs:
Q: How long does it take to process a Protection Visa application?
A: Processing times can vary, but it often takes several months. The Department of Home Affairs provides updated processing time estimates on their website.
Q: Can family members be included in the Protection Visa application?
A: Yes, immediate family members can be included in the application, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Q: What rights does a Protection Visa holder have in terms of employment?
A: Protection Visa holders have full work rights in Australia, allowing them to work in any occupation of their choice.
