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Seeking Guidance: Humanitarian Protection Visa or Other Options from India
Hello everyone,
My name is Mahdi Albadri. I am an officially registered refugee with UNHCR India and originally from Iraq. I have been living in New Delhi for several years under refugee status. Despite multiple appeals to the UNHCR for resettlement or durable solutions, my case has been neglected for years.
During this time, I’ve experienced serious mistreatment, including harassment by local authorities, rejection of protection requests, and psychological and physical distress. My situation has severely impacted my mental and physical health, and I now live with PTSD and chronic anxiety.
I recently learned about the Australian Humanitarian Protection Visa (Subclass 202 or 866), and I’m hoping to understand whether someone in my situation — a recognized refugee living in India, with documented medical and legal support — might be eligible for this visa or any other pathway to safety and stability in Australia.
I would be truly grateful for any help with the following:
– Has anyone with a similar background (UNHCR-recognized refugee outside Australia) been able to apply for a protection visa successfully?
– Are there any migration agents, lawyers, or support organizations you would recommend?
– What would be the first step to get real support, while still based in India?
I have an active Iraqi passport, UNHCR documentation, and multiple medical and legal reports proving my vulnerability and prolonged mistreatment.
Thank you in advance for any advice or direction. This is my last hope for a safe future.
Warm regards,
**Mahdi Albadri**
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1 Reply
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Hi Mahdi, thank you for sharing your story. I’m really sorry to hear about everything you’ve been through. Although I haven’t been through this myself, I’ve done some research on your behalf, as I’m sure your situation is not unique. Hopefully, this helps you and perhaps others who come across this thread, who might be able to provide some first-hand input.
Below, I’ve outlined your options so you can understand your current position and the steps you might take next.
1. Australia’s Humanitarian Program – Subclass 202 Visa (Offshore Refugee Visa)
Since you’re currently in India and recognised as a refugee by UNHCR, the most suitable pathway is likely the Subclass 202 (Global Special Humanitarian) visa.To be eligible:
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You must be outside Australia.
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You need a proposer, usually an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen (can be a family member, friend, or community organisation).
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You must demonstrate compelling reasons for resettlement, including persecution or significant hardship, which you’ve already documented.
Unfortunately, UNHCR status alone doesn’t guarantee a visa. Australia’s humanitarian intake is limited and highly competitive.
2. Subclass 866 (Onshore Protection Visa)
The subclass 866 visa is only for people already in Australia, so it’s not applicable unless you’re able to travel here first, which usually requires another valid visa (like a tourist or student visa). Australia does not issue visas to individuals it suspects may claim asylum upon arrival so this is unlikely an option for you.3. Support Options from India
You may wish to:-
Connect with Australian-based sponsors — friends, relatives, or support groups who can propose you for a 202 visa.
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Contact a reputable migration agent registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA): https://www.mara.gov.au . We have an agent we can refer you to for an initial assessment (they charge a small fee for this service).
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Reach out to legal or advocacy groups, such as:
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Refugee Legal: https://refugeelegal.org.au
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Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC): https://asrc.org.au
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Humanitarian Group: https://www.thehumanitariangroup.org.au
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These organisations sometimes assist with humanitarian visa applications and may advise you or your proposer in Australia.
First step:
Try to find a proposer in Australia and connect them with one of the legal organisations listed above to begin assessing your eligibility for a Subclass 202 visa.You can read more about the Subclass 202 visa here:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/global-special-humanitarian-202I truly hope this gives you some hope and direction, Mahdi. Please don’t hesitate to post more questions. I’m here to support you where I can.
Warm Regards
Mark
immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Immigration and citizenship Website
Find out about Australian visas, immigration and citizenship.
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