What Happens in a Medical Exam for Australian Visas? A Real Applicant Case Study + Full Checklist

What Is a Visa Medical and Why Does It Matter?

If you're applying for an Australian visa (Partner Visa, Student Visa, Work Visa, or PR), you’ll likely need to complete a visa medical exam. This health check ensures you're not at risk to public health or likely to impose excessive costs on Australia’s healthcare system.

While it might seem intimidating, the exam is usually quick and professionally conducted. In this guide, we share real applicant experiences from Sydney, Adelaide, and the Gold Coast, plus a complete checklist and practical tips.

What Happens During the Medical Exam?

Exact tests vary depending on your visa subclass, age, job, and country of origin, but most people will go through:

1. Identity Check & Basic Questions

At the clinic, you’ll:

• Present your passport and HAP ID

• Answer questions about your visa, work, or study status

🔎 Applicants in healthcare, childcare, or from TB-risk countries may need extra tests.

2. Dress Code: What to Wear

• You may be asked to change into a gown or vest

• You remove your top (and bra for women), but underwear stays on

• 💡 Avoid dresses — wear pants or skirts for ease

3. Chest X-Ray

• Required for most adults

• Screens for tuberculosis (TB)

• Done privately by certified radiographers

Some may also require a TB Quantiferon blood test (~$100 AUD).

4. Blood Tests

Typical blood tests include:

• HIV

• Hepatitis B & C

• Blood sugar and liver function

💧 Tip: Drink water beforehand for smoother blood collection.

5. Urine Test

Used to check for:

• Kidney function

• Diabetes markers

6. Physical Exam by Doctor

Most applicants describe it as fast and respectful:

• Blood pressure

• Listen to heart and lungs

• Check reflexes, eyes, and general appearance

• Mental health if needed

You remain clothed most of the time.

Real Stories from Applicants

“Staff were friendly and I was done in 40 minutes!”
— Lina, Partner Visa applicant, Adelaide

“They added one TB test because I work in a hospital.”
— Ali, Healthcare Worker, Sydney

“It felt just like a regular health check.”
— Marina, Student Visa, Gold Coast

Worried About Medication or Conditions?

Don’t be — but be honest.

Many worry that mental health meds or chronic illness will cause rejection. However, the focus is on:

• Public health safety

• Expected future healthcare costs

Being on medication does not mean your visa will be refused.

⏱ Timing: How Long Does It Take?

• Expect around 30–60 minutes

• Book early to avoid peak hour delays

Inside or Outside Australia? Where to Book

Whether you’re applying from within Australia or overseas, you must use an approved clinic.

Inside Australia:

Book your exam with Bupa Medical Visa Services, the official provider.
Find a Bupa clinic

Overseas Applicants:

Use the official Department of Home Affairs link to find approved panel physicians:

Arrange your health examination (official site)

📌 Common Questions

Q: Can I fail the medical exam?
A: It’s rare. Only serious untreated or highly infectious conditions may cause issues.

Q: Do I get fully undressed?
A: No. Only remove your top for X-ray.

Q: What if I miss the appointment?
A: Reschedule via your eMedical referral link.

Need Expert Help With Your Visa Process?

From health declarations to uploading your medical reports, we guide you through the process — so you don’t miss anything important.

Book a consultation with Millennium Migration

Our expert team can help with:

• Partner Visa

• Student Visa

• Skilled Work Visa

• Medical declarations

• eMedical submissions

Tip: Save or Share This Guide

This article is part of our Visa Help Series. Share it with others applying for a visa — or bookmark it for your own process