1. The 28-Day Deadline

When Home Affairs issues an RFI for a new medical, you are generally given 28 calendar days from the date of the letter to provide the results.

• The “Decision-Ready” Risk: If you do not respond or provide evidence of a booking within these 28 days, the Case Officer can legally refuse your visa based on the “incomplete” information currently on file.

2. What if Bupa is Fully Booked? (The 2026 Strategy)

In April 2026, wait times for Bupa appointments in major cities like Melbourne and Sydney are often 3–5 weeks, making it nearly impossible to complete the medical and have results uploaded within 28 days.

The Fix:

1. Book the first available slot: Even if it is outside the 28-day window.
2. Upload the Confirmation: Immediately upload your Bupa Booking Confirmation PDF to your ImmiAccount.
3. Click “Information Provided”: Use the “I have provided the requested information” button. This notifies the Case Officer that you have taken action.
4. Extension Requests: If you cannot get an appointment for several months, you should also upload a brief letter explaining the delay. Home Affairs usually grants “de facto” extensions if they see you have a confirmed booking.

3. The “Silent” Expiry Warning

In early 2026, Home Affairs has warned that processing times for some streams (like the 186 or 485) are frequently exceeding 12 months.

• If your medical is 11 months old: Don’t wait for the RFI. Many applicants choose to generate a new HAP ID and book a fresh medical proactively.
• The Benefit: This keeps your application “Decision Ready” and prevents your file from being “pushed back” in the queue while a Case Officer waits for your new results.

4. 2026 RFI Response Checklist