The migration policy of Australia puts family reunification at the heart of its immigrant-friendliness. With the Family Visa Program, immigrants can bring their loved ones to live with them in Australia permanently or temporarily. Family members of an Australian citizen or permanent resident can migrate and reunite with their families with clear visa pathways.
The purpose of this guide is to provide an overview of Australia Family Visa options, eligibility requirements, and how they support immigration to the country.
How does the Australia Family Visa work?
Citizens of Australia, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens may sponsor their relatives to migrate to Australia under the Family Visa Program. It depends on the relationship and the stream of the relationship whether a family visa is temporary or permanent.
Migration streams for families include:
- The partner visa is for spouses and partners in law.
- Parents of Australian residents can apply for parent visas.
- Visas for children (for dependents).
- Other family visas (for remaining relatives, caregivers, or dependents).
Australia’s types of family visas
1. The Partner Visa (Subclasses 820/801 & 309/100)
- Australian citizens and permanent residents’ spouses or de facto partners.
- A temporary visa (Subclass 820/309), followed by permanent residency (Subclass 801/100).
2. Marriage Prospective Visa (Subclass 300)
- Individuals engaged to an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- Allows entry to Australia to marry, after which partner visas can be applied for.
3. Visa for parents (Subclass 103 & 804)
- Parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
- As a result of high demand, processing times may be long.
4. Parental Contribution Visa (Subclass 143 & 173)
- Visas can be obtained faster if parents are willing to pay a higher fee.
- It leads to permanent residency.
5. Visa for children (Subclass 101 & 802)
- Children who are dependent on Australian citizens or permanent residents.
- It can be applied from anywhere in the world.
6. Visas for other family members
- Visa for Remaining Relatives (Subclass 115/835): For those with no close relatives outside of Australia.
- Caregiver Visas (Subclass 116/836) – Provide long-term care for an Australian family member.
Requirements for Eligibility
General requirements vary based on visa type, but generally include:
- An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen must sponsor the event.
- Applicants must be close family members (spouses, children, parents, or dependents).
- A genuine relationship (for partner visas).
- Maintaining good health and character.
- Sponsorship proof of financial support.
The Application Process
- Choose the right visa stream
Consider your relationship (partner, parent, child, or dependent). - Document preparation
Document preparation, proof of relationship, financial evidence, police checks, and health examinations are all required. - Visa application submission
Online applications are submitted to the Australian Department of Home Affairs. - Await processing
Visa processing times vary: partner visas may take 12–24 months, while parent visas may take longer, unless the contributory route is used. - Decision on visas
The Australian government may approve your or your family member’s migration to Australia on a temporary or permanent basis.
Visa benefits for families
- Get in touch with loved ones in Australia.
- Eventually leads to citizenship and permanent residency.
- Having access to healthcare, education, and social services.
- Immigrant families need stability and security.
A few final thoughts
Immigrants can migrate to Australia through the Australia Family Visa program by reuniting with their families. This program provides long-term residency and citizenship opportunities for partners, parents, children, and dependents.