Dreaming of reuniting with family members in Australia or starting a new life with your loved ones Down Under?
Australia offers a range of family visa options that allow eligible individuals to migrate to the Land of Opportunities and build a future together.
In this simple guide, we’ll explore the various family visa options available for migrating to Australia, covering eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits.
Understanding Family Visa Options
Australia’s family visa program is designed to reunite families and support the migration of eligible family members to Australia.
Whether you’re a partner, parent, child, or relative of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, there may be a family visa option that suits your circumstances.
Family Visa Categories
1. Partner Visas (Subclasses 820 and 801)
Partner visas allow spouses, de facto partners, and same-sex partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live and work in Australia. The subclass 820 visa is a temporary visa, while the subclass 801 visa is a permanent visa.
2. Parent Visas (Contributory and Non-Contributory)
Parent visas allow parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to migrate to Australia. Contributory parent visas require a higher application fee but generally have shorter processing times compared to non-contributory parent visas.
3. Child Visas (Subclasses 101, 802, 445)
Child visas allow dependent children of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to join their parents in Australia. The subclass 101 visa is for children outside Australia, while the subclass 802 visa is for children inside Australia. The subclass 445 visa is a temporary visa for children of parents holding temporary partner visas.
4. Remaining Relative Visas (Subclasses 115 and 835)
Remaining relative visas are for individuals who have no close family members outside Australia and have a relative living in Australia who is willing and able to sponsor them. This visa allows eligible individuals to live in Australia indefinitely.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility criteria for family visas vary depending on the visa category but generally include the following:
- Relationship to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Health and character requirements.
- Financial capacity to support yourself and any dependent family members.
- Compliance with visa conditions and Australian immigration laws.
Application Process
The application process for family visas typically involves the following steps:
1. Determine Eligibility
Determine which family visa category you qualify for based on your relationship to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
2. Gather Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents to support your visa application, including identity documents, evidence of relationship, health and character documents, and financial evidence.
3. Complete Application Form
Fill out the online application form for your chosen family visa category, providing accurate information and attaching all required documents.
4. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the relevant visa application fee using a valid credit or debit card. Visa fees vary depending on the visa category and subclass.
5. Submit Application
Submit your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount portal.
6. Wait for Processing
Once you’ve submitted your application, wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your visa application. Processing times may vary depending on the visa category and subclass.
7. Visa Grant
If your application is approved, you’ll receive a notification informing you that your family visa has been granted. You and your family members included in the application will be able to migrate to Australia and start your new life together.
Benefits of Family Visas
- Reunite with loved ones and build a future together in Australia.
- Access to healthcare, education, and social services in Australia.
- Opportunity to live, work, and study in a safe and multicultural environment.
Conclusion
Family visas offer a pathway for eligible individuals to migrate to Australia and reunite with their loved ones.
By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the application process outlined in this guide, you can take the first steps towards building a new life and creating lasting memories with your family in the Land Down Under. Start your journey today and explore the countless opportunities that await you in Australia!