Family Visas
Australia offers various family visa options to allow Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their family members to live in Australia. The visa options vary depending on the relationship between the sponsor and the visa applicant. Here are the main types of family visas:
Partner Visa
The subclass 820/801 (Onshore) or subclass 309/100 (Offshore) visas allow the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
The temporary visa (subclass 820/309) is the first step, and after two years, you can apply for the permanent visa (subclass 801/100).
The relationship must be genuine and continuing, and the couple must live together.
Parent Visa
There are several options for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens:
- Contributory parent visa (subclass 143) is a permanent visa for parents willing to make a higher financial contribution to expedite processing
- Parent visa (subclass 103) is a non-contributory visa with a long processing time, sometimes over 30 years
- Contributory aged parent visa (subclass 864) is for parents who are of retirement age and have a child who is an Australian citizen or resident
- Aged parent visa (subclass 804) is a permanent visa for older parents, with long processing times
Child Visa
Child visa (subclass 101/802) is a permanent visa for dependent children of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The child can apply from inside or outside Australia.
Adoption visa (subclass 102) is for children adopted by Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Remaining Relative Visa
Remaining relative visa (subclass 115/835) is for people whose only close family members live in Australia. Applicants must be outside Australia when applying for the subclass 115 visa.
Carer Visa
Carer visa (subclass 116/836) is for individuals who need to move to Australia to provide long-term care for an Australian relative with a medical condition.
