ویزای بشردوســـــــتانه (SHP) استرالیا برای افغان‌ها-03.jpg

Australia has announced family and humanitarian visa pathways for Afghan nationals. This guide is designed to provide step-by-step and detailed information on the humanitarian visa available to individuals who have worked with the Australian Government in Afghanistan, those who have ties with Australian institutions, women and girls, ethnic minorities, LGBTQI+, and other identified minority groups, who are now at risk of harm.

Also, this guide offers valuable information to help you navigate the Global Special Humanitarian Visa (Subclass 202) pathway to safety and security in Australia. The relevant authorities encourage you to explore the details provided here to understand the eligibility criteria, application process, and the support available for individuals seeking to resettle in Australia under the humanitarian visa program.

26500 family and humanitarian visas for Afghans

The Australian Government has allocated 26,500 dedicated humanitarian visa places for Afghans to migrate to Australia under the offshore Humanitarian Program through 2026. Individuals certified under the Afghan LEE Program must separately apply to the Department of Home Affairs for a humanitarian visa.

Home Affairs will prioritize the processing of humanitarian visa applications from individuals certified under the Afghan LEE Program. Processing times for a humanitarian visa application can vary according to program capacity and the applicant’s individual circumstances. This includes whether an applicant is inside or outside Afghanistan and their ability to travel, provide documents or access Australian government officials.

Applications for LEE certification close on 30 November 2023 (11:59 PM Australian Eastern Standard Time). However, the processing of humanitarian visas for individuals certified under the Afghan LEE Program will continue for as long as required.

All visa applicants in the humanitarian program must meet the visa criteria and satisfy public interest criteria for character, security, and health. These checks can take time. Certification as an Afghan LEE is not a guarantee that an individual will receive a humanitarian visa.

LEE Program Impact on Humanitarian Visa

Not being certified under the Afghan LEE Program has no adverse impact on an individual’s suitability to obtain an Australian visa.

Individuals who are not certified under the Afghan LEE Program may still apply for a humanitarian visa. Home Affairs will process their visa application in accordance with Australian Government priorities.

Individuals seeking certification under the Afghan LEE Program can start an application for a humanitarian visa before, at the same time, or after they have applied for Afghan LEE certification.

Who is eligible for a Humanitarian Visa?

Alongside priorities for the Humanitarian Program, including split families and those with close ties to Australia, priority for these places will be given to people outside Afghanistan who are:

  • Certified former Locally Engaged Employees (LEE) and their immediate family members (spouses and children under 18)
  • Immediate family members (spouse, children under 18) of holders of Refugee and Humanitarian (Class XB) visas
  • Security guards and Afghan government and military officials who were employed with the Australian Government in Afghanistan are now eligible to apply for LEE certification.
  • Women and girls, ethnic minorities, LGBTQI+ and other identified minority groups
  • Refugees who have been referred by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to Australia for resettlement. 

Some general information and requirements

Have a proposer

You must be proposed for this visa by a person or organization in Australia.

Your proposer must be one of the following:

  • An Australian citizen
  • An Australian permanent resident, or
  • An organization in Australia

Immediate family members can also propose you for this visa if they meet the eligibility requirements for a split family visa application. Your proposer has some responsibilities to help you settle in Australia.

Meet health requirement

  • You and any family members who apply for the visa with you must meet our requirements.
  • Family members who do not apply with you might also have to meet our requirements.
  • If you have compassionate and compelling circumstances, the relevant authorities might waive your health requirement.

Meet character requirement

  • You and any family members who apply for the visa with you must meet our requirements.
  • Family members who do not apply with you might also have to meet our character requirement.

Sign the Australian values statement

If you are 18 years of age or older, you must confirm you will respect the Australian way of life and obey Australian laws by signing or accepting the Australian Values Statement.

Have paid back your debt to the Australian Government

If you owe the Australian Government money, you must have paid it back or have a formal arrangement to pay it back.

With this visa, you can:

  • Stay in Australia permanently
  • Work and study in Australia
  • Enroll in Australia's public healthcare scheme, Medicare
  • Propose family members for permanent residence
  • Travel to and from Australia for 5 years
  • If eligible, become an Australian citizen
  • Attend free English language classes through the Adult Migrant English Program

How long can you stay?

This is a permanent visa. It lets you stay in Australia indefinitely. You become a permanent resident on the day you enter Australia on this visa.

For citizenship purposes, your permanent residency starts on the day you enter Australia on this visa.

Include family

  • You can include family in your application when you apply. You can also add certain family members to your application at any time before the relevant authorities decide on your application. For this visa, your family are:
  • your partner
  • your dependent children
  • your partner’s dependent children
  • other relative who is a dependant (partner, child, parent, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew or cousin)
  • If your child is not dependent on you, they must apply for their own visa.
  • Family members who apply for the visa must meet our health and character requirements.
  • Family members who are not coming to Australia might also have to meet our health requirement.
  • It is important to declare all your family members, even if they will not be applying with you.
  • If you do not declare a family member in your application, you may not be able to propose them for a refugee and humanitarian visa after you arrive in Australia.

Cost

There is no visa application charge for this visa unless you are proposed under the Community Support Program by an Approved Proposing Organization.

Priorities

SHP applications are processed in order of priority group.

Priority groups within the SHP are as follows:

  • proposer is an immediate family member (partner or dependent child, or, if the proposer is under 18 years of age, the proposer's parent) and they:
    • were granted a Class XB visa, or
    • are an Australian citizen who held a Protection or Resolution of Status visa.

      You must also meet the split-family criteria. This means your proposer:
    • was a member of your immediate family when the relevant authorities granted their visa
    • told us about your relationship before the relevant authorities granted their visa, and
    • proposed your visa application within 5 years of us granting their visa
  • You do not meet the split-family criteria and your proposer is a close family member (partner, child, parent or sibling), and does not hold a Protection or Resolution of Status visa.
  • Your proposer is an extended family member (grandparent, grandchild, cousin, aunt, uncle, niece or nephew), and does not hold a Protection or Resolution of Status visa.
  • Your proposer is a distant relative, friend or community organisation, and does not hold a Protection or Resolution of Status visa.
  • Your proposer holds a Protection or Resolution of Status visa.

Your obligations

  • You must enter Australia before the first entry arrival date (initial arrival date) specified in your grant letter.
  • You and your family members must obey all Australian laws.

Travel

  • You and your proposer or approved proposing organization are responsible for arranging your travel to Australia. 
  • If the first entry arrival date (initial arrival date) specified in your grant letter has passed, contact the visa processing office for a travel facilitation letter. The relevant authorities may first ask you to undergo a fresh medical examination.
  • You can travel to and from Australia for 5 years from the date the relevant authorities grant the visa. After 5 years you will need a Resident Return (RRV) visa (subclass 155) or (subclass 157) to re-enter Australia.

Visa label

We will digitally link your visa to your passport or other travel document. You will not get a label.

Special Humanitarian Program pathway

The Special Humanitarian Program's Global Special Humanitarian visa (subclass 202) has different requirements to refugee category visas. You must be:

  • Outside Australia (offshore)
  • Living outside your home country
  • Subject to substantial discrimination in your home country amounting to a gross violation of your human rights
  • Proposed for the visa by a permanent resident, an Australian citizen, or an organization based in Australia who will have proposer obligations

There must be compelling reasons for us to grant you a Global Special Humanitarian visa. When you apply, the relevant authorities will take into account 4 factors:

  • The degree of discrimination you face in your home country
  • The extent of your links to Australia
  • Whether you have other resettlement options
  • The capacity of the Australian community to provide for your settlement

Humanitarian visa processing

Australia government generally acknowledge Humanitarian visa applications in writing. Australia processes these applications as quickly as possible according to their date of receipt. Processing times can vary according to:

  • the particular circumstances of the applicant
  • the applicant’s location (be it inside or outside their home country)
  • the applicant’s ability to travel, provide documents or access to Australian government officials.

All visa applicants in the Humanitarian Program must meet the visa criteria and satisfy public interest criteria for character, security and health before the relevant authorities can grant them a visa.

Australia’s humanitarian resettlement program for Afghans is concentrated in the neighboring countries of Pakistan and Iran.

Australia also considers UNHCR-referred Afghan applicants in:

  • Turkiye
  • India
  • Thailand
  • Indonesia, and
  • Malaysia.

To ensure that resettlement is provided in a timely manner to those most in need and to reduce uncertainty for those awaiting the outcome of their application, the relevant authorities will refuse applications that do not fall within the Humanitarian Program’s priorities for the Afghan caseload. This includes applications from applicants who remain in Afghanistan. Previously unsuccessful applicants may reapply, but repeat applications are likely to have the same outcome unless circumstances have changed or there is new information in support of the application.

Afghan nationals can also pursue other migration pathways to Australia depending on their circumstances, including through the Community Support Program, the Skilled Refugee Labor Agreement Pilot, the Family Stream, and Skilled visa categories.

The Australian Government urges all people remaining in Afghanistan to prioritize their safety. People remaining in Afghanistan must carefully consider the risks should they attempt to leave by any route.

How to Apply?

Step 1 - Gather your documents

1.1. Provide accurate information

Provide accurate information. See what happens if you can't prove your identity or don't provide true information.

1.2. Identity documents

Provide the pages of your current passport showing your photo, personal details, and passport issue and expiry dates.

Also provide:

  • a national identity card, if you have one
  • proof of change of name

Documents that prove a change of name include:

  • a marriage or divorce certificate
  • change of name documents from an Australian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, or the relevant overseas authority
  • documents that show other names you have been known by

If you can't provide these items, provide a statement explaining why you have no travel or identity documents.

1.3. Humanitarian circumstances

If you have registered with any international organisation dealing with refugees, such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), please provide proof.

Provide a detailed statement, in English about why you left your home country.

1.4. Visas or residence permits

Provide certified copies of any visas or residence permits you hold.

1.5. Relationship documents

Provide certified copies of marriage certificates or relationship registrations for you and anyone else included in your application, even if they are not joining you in Australia.

1.6. Photographs

Paper applications require 2 passport sized photographs per applicant. Print your name on the back of each photograph.

Online applications require 2 scanned photographs per applicant.

The photographs should be of the head and shoulders only against a plain background.

1.7. Application forms

Unless you are applying under Community Support Program (CSP), your proposer must submit 2 forms, along with their supporting documents, for your application:

Your proposer will send you Form 842 to sign before they submit it.

Proposers under the CSP submit:

Your APO will explain the full process for submitting application forms under CSP.

1.8. Character documents

Provide military service records or discharge papers if you served in the armed forces of any country.

1.9. Tell us you are getting help

To nominate someone to:

Send written notification or your forms with your paper application.

1.10. Partner documents

Provide:

  • Identity documents
  • Character documents
  • Documents about other relationships, if applicable
  • Any visas or residence permits held
  • 2 photographs, as described in the information for the main applicant

Provide either:

  • Your current marriage certificate, or
  • Documents to prove you have been in a de facto relationship with your partner for at least 12 months before you apply

Documents that prove your de facto relationship can include:

  • Joint bank account statements
  • Billing accounts in joint names
  • Joint leases or mortgages
  • Documents that show your partner has lived at the same address as you

1.11. Dependents under 18 documents

For every dependent under 18 years old who is applying with you, provide:

  • identity documents, or a statement explaining why they have no travel or identity documents
  • proof of your relationship with them, like a birth or marriage certificate
  • any visas or residence permits held
  • any marriage certificates or relationship registrations held
  • character documents, if applicable
  • paper applications require 2 passport sized photographs per applicant. Online applications
    require 1 scanned photograph per applicant

1.11.1. Parental responsibility documents

Unless you have a court order you must get consent for the child to resettle in Australia from anyone who:

  • has a legal right to decide where the child lives and
  • is not coming to Australia with the child

They must complete either:

Include a document with the signature and photo of the person who completed the form or declaration, such as a:

  • passport
  • driver’s licence

If the child is not staying with a relative or legal guardian, provide Form 1257 Undertaking declaration (211KB PDF). The person they are staying with must sign the form.

1.12. Dependants over 18 documents

For every dependant aged 18 years or older who is applying with you, provide:

  • identity documents
  • documents about their other relationships, if applicable
  • character documents
  • any visas or residence permits held
  • Paper applications require 2 passport sized photographs per applicant. Online applications
    require 1 scanned photograph per applicant.

1.12.1. Proof of dependency

You need to prove that this person is dependent on you. You must demonstrate financial, physical or psychological dependence. 

1.13. Prepare your documents

1.13.1. Translate

Have all non-English documents translated into English.

Translators in Australia must be accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters.

Translators outside Australia do not have to be accredited. But on each translation, they must include their:

  • full name
  • address and telephone number
  • qualifications and experience in the language they are translating

These details must be in English.

1.14. For online applications

You do not need to have any documents certified.

1.14.1. Scan or photograph

  • Scan or photograph all documents (English and non-English) in color.
  • The scans and photos must be clear.
  • If a document is more than one page, save it all as one file.
  • Ensure that photos are saved under the name of the person in the photo, and all other files are clearly labelled in English.

1.14.2. Attach

Attach a document only once, even if you are using it to show more than one thing.

Learn more about attaching documents.

1.15. For paper applications

1.15.1. Certify

Have all documents certified. This includes:

  • non-English documents
  • English translations

1.15.2. Keep

Keep a copy of your completed application.

1.15.3. Send

Send us:

  • certified copies of all documents
  • as much information as possible to help us decide on your application
  • each document only once, even if you are using it to show more than one thing
  • all documents with your application, if you can

Step 2 - Apply for the visa

2.1. Provide accurate information

Apply for this visa online (preferred method of lodgement) or by post.

Provide accurate information. See what happens if you can't prove your identity or don't provide true information.

2.2. Apply online

Apply online via our webform. Attach documents, including the required forms:

  • Form 842 - Application for an Offshore Humanitarian visa
  • Form 681 - Refugee and special humanitarian proposal.

2.3. Apply on paper

You can post your completed paper application and supporting documents to us at:

Special Humanitarian Processing Centre
Department of Home Affairs
GPO Box 9984
SYDNEY NSW 2001

2.4. Having family applications processed together

Submit your visa applications and supporting documents together. This helps give us a clear idea of everyone that is applying for a visa.

In your application, you must list all family who are also applying for their own visa.

Step 3 - After you apply

We will let you and your proposer (if you have authorised them) know when the relevant authorities have received your application and documents.

3.1. Status updates

We can’t give updates on applications.

Wait for us to contact you.

3.2. Travel after you apply

Do not arrange travel to Australia until the relevant authorities let you know, in writing, that the relevant authorities have granted you the visa.

3.3. Health exams

We will let you know if you need health examinations. 

3.4. Biometrics

We might ask for biometrics (fingerprints and photo). The relevant authorities will let you know if you need to provide them.

3.5. Attach more information

If you did not attach all documents when you applied send them to the office where you sent the application, quoting the file number the relevant authorities have given you.

We might also ask you to provide more information.

3.6. Attend an interview

The relevant authorities might ask you to attend an interview. You must bring your passport or other identification and any other requested documents. You might be asked about:

  • Your situation, including why you are applying for a humanitarian visa
  • Your family
  • Information you provided in your application

If the relevant authorities receive information that could result in you being refused a visa, the relevant authorities will usually give you the opportunity to comment.

We might contact your proposer to:

  • Clarify details in their proposal
  • Assess the kind of help they can give you

3.7. Pay the second instalment

If you need to pay a second instalment, the relevant authorities will send you an invoice after you have met all other requirements for the visa. Pay the instalment after you get the invoice. Do not ask for the invoice.

3.8. Add family

In some circumstances you can add certain family members to your application before the relevant authorities decide on your application.

Complete Form 1436 Adding an additional applicant after lodgment (481KB PDF).

3.9. Mistakes on your application

Let us know as soon as you can if you made a mistake on your application.

Complete Form 1023 Notification of incorrect answers (168KB PDF).

Help with your application

Let us know if you no longer want someone to:

Send written notification or your forms to the office your submitted your application.

For more information see Who can help you with your application.

3.10. Tell if things change

Things you need to let us know about after you have applied include:

  • changes to your phone number, email, address or passport
  • changes to your marital or de facto status
  • the birth of a child
  • you want to withdraw your application

See how to tell us if your situation changes.

Step 4 - Visa outcome

The government of Australia will let you know their decision in writing.

You must be outside Australia when they make their decision.

If they grant your visa, they will tell you:

  • your visa grant number
  • the date your visa starts
  • your visa conditions, if applicable

Keep a copy of the decision. If they refuse your visa, they will tell you:

  • why they refused the visa
  • whether you have a right to a review of the decision

What if I travel outside of Afghanistan?

If you have traveled outside of Afghanistan and have not advised the Department of your change in location, notify us of your current address by completing ‘change of contact details’ form 929. Email it to: 929@homeaffairs.gov.au or complete the ‘notification of changes in circumstances’ form 1022 and email it to: shp.enquiries@homeaffairs.gov.au. Updates to changes in your personal circumstances such as a change of address will not be acknowledged.

What can you do when you have this visa?

  • Stay in Australia permanently
  • Work and study in Australia
  • Enroll in Australia's public healthcare scheme, Medicare
  • Propose family members for permanent residence
  • Travel to and from Australia for 5 years
  • If eligible become an Australian citizen
  • Attend free English language classes through the Adult Migrant English Program

Bringing family

  • As an Australian permanent resident, you might be able to sponsor eligible family members to come to Australia.
  • To find a visa for your family member, explore visa options.
  • You can also propose a family member for a Subclass 202 Global Special Humanitarian visa.

Becoming an Australian citizen 

  • After a certain time, you might be eligible for Australian citizenship. Find out more about becoming an Australian citizen.
  • For citizenship purposes, your permanent residency starts on the day you entered Australia on this visa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this guide serves as a vital resource for Afghan nationals seeking to understand and navigate Australia's humanitarian visa pathways. The information provided here outlines the step by step guide about the Special Humanitarian Program (SHP), and offering insights into the eligibility criteria and the application process for mentioned pathway. It is important to note that SHP certification, while significant, does not guarantee the issuance of a visa, and individuals are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the requirements and considerations for each visa category. The Australian Government's commitment to prioritizing the processing of humanitarian visa applications from certified Afghan LEEs underscores the support available for those in need of protection and resettlement.

The Department of Home Affairs does not charge a fee to fast-track a humanitarian visa. If you get offered this service, it is a scam. There are registered migration agents and legal practitioners who work for non-commercial organizations in Australia. They do not charge a fee for their services. To find help with your visa application, go to: Who can help you with your application?

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Ask for help from "Beporsed"

For those Afghans seeking specific information, "Beporsed" is here to help. You can reach our information center through WhatsApp (+93729807235), Facebook Messenger, or our website's Messenger to ask our online information desk officer for assistance.

For more information

For more information on immigration, resettlement, education and scholarship programs, and other opportunities available to Afghans worldwide, as well as details on the humanitarian services provided by international organizations in Afghanistan and procedures for obtaining civil documents from governmental institutions, please visit Beporsed's website and social media pages.

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