New Online Lodgement Option for Subclass 202 Visa from 1 July 2025

Subclass 202 Visa Applications Can Now Be Lodged Online

Before this update, people applying for a visa under the Special Humanitarian Program (SHP) had to submit paper forms. Now, applicants and their proposers can complete and lodge their forms electronically via ImmiAccount.

To use the online system, both parties must submit the following forms digitally:

1. Form 842 – Application for a Special Humanitarian Program visa
2. Form 681 – Refugee and Special Humanitarian Proposal

⚠️ Note: The new process applies only to the Special Humanitarian Program. The Community Support Program (CSP) remains unchanged.

Why the Subclass 202 Visa Process Is Changing

The Department’s goal is to move toward a more digitised, efficient system. The online lodgement process will:

1. Reduce delays in application processing
2. Simplify the steps for refugee and humanitarian applicants
3. Improve accessibility and transparency
4. Support faster and more secure submission of documents

This is a welcome update for families and individuals seeking to support vulnerable relatives overseas through the visa program.

Legislation Supporting the Change

This update is backed by the following legislation:

1. Migration Act 1958 – Section 46
2. Migration Regulations 1994 – Schedule 1

You can review the full details in the official documents:

1. Migration-Arrangements-for-Protection-Refugee-and-Humanitarian-Visas-Amendment-Internet-Lodgement-Instrument-2025.pdf
2. Explanatory Statement to the Instrument

Final Thoughts on the Subclass 202 Visa Digital Update

This update marks a major step toward modernising the visa application process. Lodging online helps applicants avoid paperwork issues, shorten waiting periods, and complete decision-ready applications with greater confidence.

If you’re applying for a Subclass 202 visa or helping a loved one start their application, our legal team is here to support you.

👉 Contact the experts at Emigrate Lawyers for step-by-step guidance and reliable legal support on lodging a complete Subclass 202 visa application online.