Protection & Humanitarian Visas

Protection Visa (Subclass 866) & Humanitarian Refugee Pathways

For individuals seeking protection in Australia, Just Fair Law provides experienced and compassionate assistance with Australian Protection Visas (Subclass 866) and advice relating to Australia’s Humanitarian and Refugee Visa Program.

Our Australian Migration Lawyers and Protection Visa Consultants assist clients across the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, and Australia-wide, including individuals currently in Australia seeking protection and eligible sponsors wishing to assist family members overseas.

Protection Visa (Subclass 866) – Onshore Applications

The Protection Visa (Subclass 866) is a permanent visa available to individuals who are already in Australia and who engage Australia’s protection obligations.

This visa may be granted where an applicant can demonstrate that they:

• Are a refugee under Australian law, or

• Face a real risk of significant harm if returned to their country of origin (complementary protection)

Applicants must generally have entered Australia lawfully and be in Australia at the time of application.

Protection visa applications are highly scrutinised, and claims must be supported by credible, consistent, and well-documented evidence.

Humanitarian & Refugee Visas – Offshore Pathways

Australia also operates an offshore Humanitarian and Refugee Program, which is separate from the Protection Visa (Subclass 866). These visas are for individuals outside Australia who require humanitarian assistance and may include:

• Refugee visas (offshore)

• Humanitarian visas proposed by eligible sponsors

• Global Special Humanitarian Program (GSH)

These applications are assessed under strict eligibility criteria and, in many cases, involve UNHCR referral or sponsorship by an eligible proposer.

We provide advice to sponsors and applicants on eligibility, evidentiary requirements, and lawful pathways under Australia’s humanitarian framework.

Strict Legal & Evidence Requirements

Protection and humanitarian visa applications require a high standard of proof. The Department of Home Affairs may consider:

• A genuine and well-founded fear of persecution or serious harm

• Consistency between written statements, interviews, and evidence

• Country information and personal risk assessments

• Credibility, conduct, and visa history

Failure to properly establish eligibility or provide sufficient supporting documentation may result in visa refusal, with serious legal consequences.

Early advice from an experienced Australian protection visa lawyer is strongly recommended.

Sponsoring Family Members on Humanitarian Grounds

If you believe you may be eligible to sponsor a family member or another person under Australia’s humanitarian program, or if you believe you personally require Australia’s protection, our firm can assess your circumstances and advise on the most appropriate and lawful migration pathway.

Why Choose Just Fair Law?

• Experienced Australian migration lawyers

• Protection Visa (Subclass 866) expertise

• Humanitarian and refugee visa advice

• Confidential, sensitive, and strategic approach

• Serving Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Sydney & Australia-wide

If you are seeking advice on protection or humanitarian visas in Australia, please contact our office to arrange an initial assessment.

Important Disclaimer

The information on this website is general information only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. All matters are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for advice specific to your circumstances.