An ImmiCard is an official identity document issued by the Australian Government through the Department of Home Affairs. It is given to certain non-citizens living in Australia who do not have a passport or are unable to get one.

The ImmiCard is not a visa and not a residence permit, but it helps prove your identity and immigration status while in Australia. It is especially useful for people who do not have other valid forms of photo identification.

What Can You Use an ImmiCard For?

The ImmiCard can help in two main ways:

1. It allows some visa holders to access government services, like healthcare or Centrelink.
2. It acts as an official travel document for eligible people entering Australia for the first time.

Types of ImmiCards

There are two main types of ImmiCards. The one you receive depends on your visa and whether you are already in Australia or still overseas.

1. Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS) ImmiCard

If you are already in Australia, you may be eligible for an EIS ImmiCard if you hold one of the following visas:

1. Bridging visa E (subclass 050 or 051)
2. Bridging (Trafficking) visa (subclass 060)
3. Bridging (Removal Pending) visa (subclass 070)
4. Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa (subclass 449)
5. Temporary Protection visa (subclass 785)
6. Temporary (Humanitarian Concern) visa (subclass 786)
7. Safe Haven Enterprise visa (subclass 790)
8. Resolution of Status visa (subclass 851)
9. Permanent Protection visa (subclass 866)

You may also qualify for an EIS ImmiCard if you:

1. Have a Document for Travel to Australia (DFTTA) or a Visa Evidence Card and need to replace it
2. Are living in the community without a visa (undocumented), in which case you should speak with your case manager

2. Australian Migration Status (AMS) ImmiCard

If you are outside Australia and have been granted a Refugee or Special Humanitarian Programme visa, you will receive an AMS ImmiCard before travelling. This card helps you enter Australia and access services once you arrive.

How to Apply for an ImmiCard

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

ImmiCards are available only to people in specific visa situations. Check your visa type to see if you qualify.

Step 2: Know the Costs

1. Free if you are a new protection or humanitarian visa holder and apply within 3 months
2. Free for unaccompanied minors
3. AUD 100 for your first ImmiCard (if you're not eligible for a free one)
4. AUD 30 for a replacement ImmiCard (due to loss, damage, or expiry)

There is no charge if the card is replaced due to incorrect details caused by the government. However, if you change your name legally, you must pay the replacement fee.

You must pay any fees before filling out the application form.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

You will need to submit documents proving your identity. These may include:

1. Expired passport
2. National ID card
3. Australian driver’s licence
4. Proof of age card
5. Previous ImmiCard
6. Document for Travel to Australia (DFTTA) or Visa Evidence Card

If you do not have photo ID, submit a recent passport-style photograph (less than 6 months old) and supporting documents such as:

1. Medicare card
2. Centrelink concession card
3. Credit card

You may also need to show documents that prove you have been living in Australia continuously, such as:

1. School or employment records
2. Bank statements or tax documents
3. Utility bills
4. Rental agreements
5. Birth or marriage certificates

If your name has changed, include a change of name certificate or marriage certificate.

Step 4: Scan Your Documents

Scan original documents in colour at high quality (600dpi). Only submit clear scans. Do not send:

1. Black-and-white copies
2. Photos of documents
3. Selfies or low-quality images

If any documents are not in English, you must include a translation from a NAATI-accredited translator.

The total size of your uploaded files should be no more than 10MB.

Step 5: Complete the Online Application

1. Fill in the ImmiCard application form online
2. Upload your scanned documents
3. You must provide a residential address in Australia (not a PO Box)

Here are a few tips to help with the application:

1. Your Visa Grant Number is 13 digits long
2. Your Client ID is 11 digits long
3. A Boat ID (for maritime arrivals) includes 3 letters and 3 numbers (e.g. VIC123)
4. The DFTTA number starts with one letter followed by six numbers (e.g. E123456)
5. The ImmiCard number includes 3 letters followed by 6 numbers (e.g. AMS123456)

When entering your address, type it in full so that the system can find the correct match. For example:

If your address is Unit 2, 14 Smith Street, write it as 2/14 Smith Street, Suburb, State, Postcode.

After You Apply

Processing times vary depending on the situation. While some applications are processed in as little as one week, others may take up to eight weeks, especially during busy periods or if more information is required.

If Your Application Is Approved

If your application is successful, your ImmiCard will be delivered to your home by registered mail.

If you are not home when it arrives, a collection slip will be left in your mailbox. Take this slip and identification to your nearest post office to collect your card.

You can use one form of photo ID or two documents that show your name or address, such as:

1. Visa grant notice
2. Medicare card
3. Driver’s licence
4. Bank statement
5. Utility bill
6. MyPost card

Card Expiry and Replacements

An ImmiCard is valid for five years. It will not be renewed automatically when it expires, because it is not linked to your visa expiry date.

You can still use an expired ImmiCard to check your visa details through the VEVO system. However, some organisations may not accept expired ImmiCards as valid proof of ID.

You may apply for a replacement card if your current one is:

1. Expired
2. Lost or stolen
3. Damaged

There will be a fee unless your card was issued with incorrect details by the government.

If you are granted a new visa, you do not need a new ImmiCard unless your existing card has expired or is no longer usable.

Final Reminder

The ImmiCard is a helpful form of identity for certain visa holders in Australia, especially those who cannot access a passport or other government ID. It allows access to essential services and supports your transition into the Australian community.

To apply or learn more, visit the official Department of Home Affairs website or speak with your migration support officer if you have one.