Family Visa

A family and relative visa is a type of permit that allows Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to bring family members to Australia. A family and relative visa typically allows you to bring your children, siblings, or a close family member who meets the eligibility requirements.

Family and Relative Visas in Australia

There are several visas available under the family migration programme, depending on which visa you meet the qualifying criteria for:

Subclass 102

If you want to adopt a child under the age of 18 and bring them to Australia, you should apply for an adoption visa. You must be in Australia at the time of the adoption and apply on behalf of the child you wish to adopt.

Aged Dependent Relative Visa (subclass 114, 838).

This visa is only available to the elderly relatives of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens. To be eligible for this visa, you must be of pensionable age and financially dependent on a relative. Unfortunately, the wait for this visa could last up to 50 years.

Subclasses 836, 116 of the Australia Carer Visa.

If you have a relative in Australia who needs your help or medical attention, you can apply for a carer visa. Your sponsor must provide you with a medical certificate proving that they have a genuine medical condition that necessitates your care for this visa.

Subclasses 101 and 802 of the Australia Child Visa.

This visa is for children who want to join their parent or legal guardian in Australia. You may apply on behalf of your child in some cases, but if you have more than one child, each must have their own application.

Subclass 445 Australia Dependent Child Visa

A visa 445 allows children of partner visa applicants to accompany their parents to Australia. This visa is only valid until a final decision on the partner visa is made.

Subclass 461 Australia Family Visa for New Zealand Citizens

If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen but have a New Zealand family member in Australia, you can apply for this visa. This visa is only available if you are their partner or child.

Subclasses 117, 837 of the Australia Orphan Relative Visa.

This visa is for children whose parents have died, are unable to care for them, or have gone missing. An orphan visa allows children to join family members who are already in Australia and will care for the child.

Remaining Relative Visas in Australia- subclass 115, 835

This visa is typically reserved for siblings and step-siblings. If you have an eligible parent or step-parent in Australia, they can also sponsor you for the visa.

Family and Relatives Visa Cost

The cost of a family and relative visa varies depending on the visa requested. You could be charged anywhere from AUD370 to AUD6,490. However, most family visas require you to pay the visa fee in two instalments, which means you do not have to pay the full amount when you apply for the visa.

Keep in mind that if you are bringing family members to Australia, you must pay additional fees for each visa.