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Subclass 866
Protection visa
A permanent visa for people in Australia who are refugees, or who face a real risk of significant harm if returned, and who arrived in Australia holding a valid visa.
From 1 November 2026, people with an undecided protection visa application, or seeking review of a protection refusal, cannot get a bridging visa B. For protection decisions made on or after that date, an upfront fee applies to Tribunal review, unless you are in immigration detention.
Who this visa is for
People in Australia who fear persecution or serious harm in their home country and engage Australia's protection obligations under the refugee or complementary protection criteria.
- Visa type
- Permanent
- Where you apply
- In Australia
- Length of stay
- Permanently
- Work
- Full work and study rights once granted
Key requirements
- You are in Australia when you apply, and generally arrived holding a valid visa
- You are a refugee: a well-founded fear of persecution because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership of a particular social group
- Or you meet complementary protection: a real risk of significant harm, such as torture or the death penalty, if returned
- Protection is not available to you in your own country or a safe third country
- Identity, health, character and security requirements
What this visa lets you do
- Live, work and study in Australia permanently
- Medicare and social security
- Include family members in Australia in your application
- A pathway to Australian citizenship
- Travel to the country you fear persecution in can affect your status
How it works
Applying for the 866 visa
We handle each step and keep you informed, from the first assessment to the decision.
Consultation
We hear your story and explain whether the protection criteria may apply.
Evidence and translations
Documents, messages and records are organised and translated.
Statement of claims
Your account is written in your own words and checked for consistency.
Country information and submissions
Country reports and media are linked to each claim in legal submissions.
Interview
We prepare you for the protection interview.
Decision and review
If refused, we advise on Tribunal review within the time limit.
Documents you'll usually need
- Passport and national identity card, if you have them
- Birth and marriage certificates, and family documents
- Evidence of threats or harm: messages, letters, photos and social media posts
- Police, court, medical or hospital records
- Membership cards or letters from political, religious or community organisations
- Your current visa details and any letters from the Department
Documents not in English need accredited translations. The Department may ask for others depending on your circumstances.
Questions
866 visa questions
Can I work while my application is processed?
Most applicants who applied while holding a valid visa receive a bridging visa. Whether it allows work depends on your circumstances and conditions.
Can I travel overseas while I wait?
Since 1 November 2026, protection visa applicants can't get a bridging visa B. Leaving Australia means you can't return on a bridging visa.
What if my application is refused?
You may be able to apply to the Administrative Review Tribunal, usually within 28 days. An upfront fee applies for decisions made on or after 1 November 2026, unless you are in detention, and it is refunded if the review succeeds.
General information only, current at November 2026. Visa criteria, fees and processing change often, including each 1 July. Book a consultation for advice on your situation.
Thinking about the 866?
Book a consultation and we'll check whether you meet every criterion before you apply.