The Australian visa medical exam
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Who needs a medical exam?
Home Affairs says most visa applicants must meet the health requirement, and some need exams to prove it. Permanent and provisional visas (skilled, employer, partner and family) usually need one. Temporary visas such as student, working holiday and visitor usually need one only in set cases, for example you are from a higher-risk tuberculosis country and will stay six months or more, you will work in healthcare or childcare, or you are 75 or over applying for a visitor visa (Tern Visa). Your visa letter lists the tests you must do.
How do I book?
- Lodge your application. You normally receive a HAP ID in ImmiAccount that lists your required tests. You can also generate one earlier through My Health Declarations.
- In Australia, book with Bupa Medical Visa Services and pay when you book. Overseas, use a Department-approved panel physician or clinic. You generally cannot use your own GP.
- Bring your passport or acceptable photo ID and your HAP ID.
- The clinic uploads results electronically to the Department. A Medical Officer of the Commonwealth then assesses them against the requirement.
What tests are included?
A general exam for everyone, then tests that depend on age, visa and country. Common ones are a chest X-ray (from age 11), an HIV test and kidney function test (from age 15 for permanent and provisional visas), and sometimes hepatitis B. Children aged 2 to 10 from high-TB countries may have a skin or blood test instead of an X-ray.
How much does it cost?
Bupa fees in Australia, GST included, for bookings from 1 July 2026 (LifeinAus, 3 October 2026):
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Medical exam and chest X-ray (501 and 502) | A$392.00 |
| Medical exam only (501) | A$283.00 |
| Chest X-ray only (502) | A$146.20 |
| HIV test (707) | A$60.90 |
| Hepatitis B (708) | A$70.40 |
| Hepatitis C (716) | A$70.40 |
| Syphilis (712) | A$50.00 |
Extra tests may be requested on the day. Overseas clinics set their own fees.
How long do results last?
Generally about 12 months from the exam, and some visas require a repeat if your application is not decided in that time. Do not test too early.
What if I fail?
The assessment looks only at your medical situation, not private insurance or ability to pay. Active tuberculosis must be treated before a visa can be granted. The Medical Officer may recommend a health undertaking, which is an agreement to attend follow-up checks.
FAQ
Do I need an exam for every visa?
No. It depends on the visa, your age and where you have lived. Your HAP ID and visa letter list what is required.
Who does the exam?
Bupa in Australia, or a panel clinic overseas.
Can I use my own doctor?
Generally no, because the exam must be done by an approved clinic.
Does it delay my application?
It can if results arrive late. See processing times.
Do I also need a police certificate?
Often, for character. See police certificates.