Public Interest Criterion (PIC) 4005 and 4007 – Health Requirement Explained

Australia’s migration program includes strict health requirements to protect public health, ensure access to essential services, and manage public expenditure. These requirements are assessed under specific Public Interest Criteria (PIC), most commonly PIC 4005 and PIC 4007, which apply across most visa subclasses.

 

What is the PIC Health Criterion?

The PIC health criterion requires visa applicants to meet Australia’s health standards as prescribed by the Department of Home Affairs. The assessment is conducted by a Medical Officer of the Commonwealth (MOC) based on health examinations completed through approved panel physicians.

The health requirement focuses on whether an applicant:

  • Has a condition that poses a risk to public health or public safety, or
  • Is likely to result in significant cost to Australia’s health care and community services, or
  • Is likely to prejudice access to health care or community services by Australian citizens and permanent residents.

 

PIC 4005 vs PIC 4007

  • PIC 4005 applies to visa subclasses where no health waiver is available. If the applicant does not meet the health requirement, the visa must be refused.
  • PIC 4007 allows for a health waiver, provided the decision maker is satisfied that granting the visa would be unlikely to result in undue cost or prejudice to access to services, and that compelling and compassionate circumstances exist, where relevant.

Whether a waiver is available depends entirely on the visa subclass and applicable legislative instrument.

 

How the Health Requirement is Assessed

Health assessments are not based on diagnosis alone. The MOC considers:

  • The likely cost of treatment and support servicesover a specified period,
  • Use of services such as hospitals, pharmaceuticals, disability or aged care,
  • Whether the condition is ongoing, stable, or likely to deteriorate.

Importantly, an applicant may fail the health requirement even if they are currently asymptomatic or privately insured, as private arrangements are not taken into account under migration law.

 

Key Takeaway

Meeting the PIC health criterion is a mandatory component of most Australian visa applications. Understanding whether a visa is subject to PIC 4005 or PIC 4007 is critical, as it determines whether a health waiver can be considered. Health issues should be addressed early, with accurate medical evidence and, where applicable, a structured waiver submission.