Australia Introduces Subclass 866 Protection Visa for Asylum Seekers

Australia's Department of Home Affairs has published information regarding the Subclass 866 Protection Visa in 2026. This visa is available to foreigners who are already in Australia on a valid visa and wish to apply for asylum.

To qualify, applicants must meet Australia's protection obligations and satisfy all immigration authority requirements. The Subclass 866 is a permanent visa, allowing holders to remain in Australia indefinitely, with the date of visa grant marking the start of permanent residency for citizenship applications.

This visa is distinct from offshore humanitarian programs, as it applies only to those physically present in Australia at the time of their application. Successful applicants must demonstrate that Australia has obligations towards them under international protection law and meet additional visa conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs.