Offshore Humanitarian visas are available to people outside of Australia who are also outside of their home country and cannot return to their home country because they are refugees.
What is an offshore humanitarian visa?
Australia offers a range of offshore humanitarian visas to refugees and people at risk who are not in Australia and who are outside of their home country and cannot return to their home country because they fear persecution.
An offshore humanitarian visa is a permanent visa to Australia which allows you to live, work and study in Australia.
There are a number of offshore humanitarian visas available. Speak to a lawyer to find out if you are eligible for one of the offshore humanitarian visa options.
What are the requirements of an offshore humanitarian visa?
You may be eligible for an offshore humanitarian visa if:
- You are outside of Australia
- You are subject to persecution or substantial discrimination in your home country
- You meet the ‘compelling reasons’ criterion
- You meet health, character and national security requirements
There are a number of offshore humanitarian visas available and some of them have different eligibility requirements. Speak to a lawyer to find out if you are eligible for one of the offshore humanitarian visa options.
Can I appeal a refusal of an offshore humanitarian visa?
If you have received an offshore humanitarian visa refusal your options to appeal may be limited. Instead it may be an option apply again for the visa.
You should read your visa refusal notice carefully to understand:
- if you have the right to appeal your decision
- the timeframe available to lodge the appeal
- the relevant appeal body your appeal should be directed to.
If your letter does not outline this information we suggest that you obtain legal advice.
