When applying for an Australian visa, you may be asked to complete additional checks such as Australian police checks, Australian Federal Police (AFP) clearances, medical examinations, and biometrics. These requirements help the Department of Home Affairs assess your character and health, ensuring you meet Australia’s entry and stay conditions. While these checks are common, many applicants are unsure which checks apply to them, when they’re required, how to prepare, or how delays can impact their visa timeline. Here’s a clear, practical guide to help you understand the process from start to finish.
When Do You Need Police Checks?
Police checks are usually required for visa applicants aged 16 and over, and are required from each country that you have lived in for more than 12 months in total (doesn’t need to be continuous) during the last ten years. Police checks help confirm that you don’t have a significant criminal history that may impact your eligibility for a visa.
You may need to provide:
- AFP National Police Check for time spent in Australia
- Overseas police certificates for each country where you have lived long-term
Visas that commonly require police checks include Partner visas, Skilled visas, Student visas, Working Holiday visas, and many temporary work visas.
Tip: Apply early. Police checks can take many weeks depending on processing volumes, especially around Christmas and public holiday periods.
When Are Medicals Required?
Health examinations are required for many temporary and permanent visas. You may be asked to complete:
- A general medical exam
- A chest X-ray
- Blood tests
- Specialist assessments if needed
Your health requirement depends on your visa type, length of stay, and any potential health risks identified by Home Affairs. For example:
- Student visas often require medicals
- Partner and family visas require a full health check
- Temporary work visas may require medicals depending on the country you’ve lived in
- Applicants from certain countries or with certain occupations (healthcare, childcare, aged care) may require more detailed examinations
All medicals must be completed with a panel physician approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
Tip: Do not book medicals until Home Affairs instructs you to, unless your migration agent confirms otherwise. Completing them too early may cause them to expire before your visa is finalised.
When Are Biometrics Required?
Biometrics, fingerprints and a digital photo, are required for many Australian visa applicants overseas and for some applicants inside Australia. You will receive a biometrics instruction letter after lodging your visa.
You must attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) in person. Biometrics help confirm your identity and enhance visa security.
Tip: Book your biometrics appointment as soon as possible. Appointment availability can be limited depending on location.
How to Prepare for These Checks
- Keep your passport valid – You’ll need it for all appointments.
- Respond quickly to Home Affairs requests – Delays can slow or pause your visa processing.
- Gather identity documents early – For police checks, ensure your documents are certified and correct.
- Double-check appointment requirements – Some clinics require fasting or specific paperwork.
- Monitor your ImmiAccount – Instructions and deadlines are issued there.
Police checks, medicals, and biometrics are essential parts of the Australian visa process. Preparing early, understanding what to expect, and acting quickly when Home Affairs requests information can help you avoid unnecessary delays. If you’re unsure which checks apply to your visa, Australian Visa Advice can guide you step-by-step and ensure everything is completed correctly the first time.
