Bringing Your Partner or Family to Australia: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re considering bringing your partner or family to Australia temporarily or permanently, this guide will walk you through the process. Whether you’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or visa holder, understanding the visa options and application pathways is essential to ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones.
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For Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents Inviting Family
Temporary or Permanent Residency
Decide if your family member will join you temporarily or permanently in Australia. The type of visa they apply for depends on this decision.
Visa Options
Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801 and 309/100)
- Onshore (Subclass 820/801): Apply while in Australia.
- Offshore (Subclass 309/100): Apply from outside Australia.
- Cost: AUD 8,085
- Processing Time: 18–30 months
Parent Visas (Subclass 143, 173, 103, 804, and 870)
- Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143/173): Faster processing but higher costs. Subclass 143 is permanent, while Subclass 173 provides a temporary pathway to permanent residency.
- Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 103): Lower cost but extremely long processing times (up to 30 years).
- Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804): For parents who meet the Australian pension age.
- Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa (Subclass 870): Offers up to 10 years of temporary residency. Cost: AUD 5,090 for three years or AUD 10,180 for five years. Does not require the “Balance of Family Test.”
Child Visas (Subclass 101/802)
- For dependent children under 18 or full-time students aged 18–25.
- Includes adopted and stepchildren.
- Cost: AUD 2,710
- Processing Time: 12–30 months
For Visa Holders Inviting Family
Check Visa Conditions
- Confirm if your visa allows for subsequent entrants (family members joining you later).
- Verify that you declared your family members in your initial visa application.
- For example, Student Visa holders can invite family members as dependents if permitted.
Temporary or Permanent Residency
Decide whether your family member will stay temporarily or permanently.
Visa Application
- If subsequent entrants are permitted, apply for the relevant visa subclass for your family members.
- If not, family members must apply for an independent visa based on their circumstances and intentions.
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For Returning Australians Bringing Overseas-Born Family
For Children
- Apply for Citizenship by Descent: If your child was born overseas, they may qualify for Australian citizenship by descent. Once approved, you can apply for an Australian passport on their behalf.
- Visa Alternative: If citizenship is not pursued, your child will require a visa, such as a Child Visa (Subclass 101 or 802), to enter Australia.
For Partners or Other Family Members
Your partner or family member will need a visa. Options include Partner, Parent, or Child Visas, depending on their relationship to you and their purpose for staying in Australia.
Temporary vs. Permanent Family Visas
Temporary Visas
Offer limited residency but can often lead to permanent residency. Examples include Subclass 820 (Partner Visa) and Subclass 870 (Parent Visa).
Permanent Visas
Provide indefinite residency with access to public healthcare (Medicare) and pathways to Australian citizenship. Examples include Subclass 801 (Partner Visa) and Subclass 143 (Parent Visa).
Eligibility Criteria for Family Visas
Health and Character Requirements
All applicants must pass health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
Financial Requirements
Sponsors may need to demonstrate financial capacity, particularly for Parent Visas like Subclass 870.
Balance of Family Test
For Parent Visas, at least half of the applicant’s children must reside permanently in Australia, or more children must live in Australia than in any other country.
Age Requirements
Varies by visa subclass. For example, Aged Parent Visas require applicants to meet the Australian pension age.
Onshore vs. Offshore Applications
Onshore Applications
Applicants can stay in Australia on a bridging visa while their application is processed.
Offshore Applications
Applicants must lodge and await visa approval from outside Australia.
Processing Times and Costs
| Visa Subclass | Cost (AUD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Partner Visa (820/801) | 8,085 | 18–30 months |
| Contributory Parent Visa (143) | 47,955 | 3–5 years |
| Child Visa (802/101) | 2,710 | 12–30 months |
| Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa (870) | 5,090+ | Varies |
Key Considerations for All Family Visas
- Application Accuracy: Ensure all required documentation, such as proof of relationship or dependency, is provided.
- Legal Obligations: Applicants and sponsors must comply with all Australian laws during the application process and residency.
- Sponsorship Duration: Sponsors may have obligations to provide financial and moral support during the applicant’s residency.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start by assessing your eligibility for the chosen visa subclass.
- Submit complete and accurate documentation to avoid delays.
- Consider using temporary visas as a pathway to permanent residency when applicable.
- Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for updates on visa requirements and processing times.
With a clear understanding of Australia’s family visa options, you can confidently plan the best pathway to reunite with your loved ones. Whether applying for a Partner, Parent, or Child Visa, thorough preparation and adherence to requirements will ensure a smoother process. For further assistance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
FAQs
What is the "Balance of Family Test"?
At least half of your children must live permanently in Australia or more children must reside in Australia than in any other country.
What is the cost of a Partner Visa?
The Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) costs AUD 8,085, with a processing time of 18–30 months.
Can I apply for a family visa onshore?
Yes, certain visas like the Subclass 820 Partner Visa allow onshore applications, and you can stay on a bridging visa while it is processed.
Does the Temporary Parent Visa (Subclass 870) lead to permanent residency?
No, the Subclass 870 is a temporary visa and does not lead directly to permanent residency.
Do I need a migration agent?
While not mandatory, consulting a migration agent can simplify the process and improve your chances of success.
