Family Visas
Australia’s family visa program facilitates the reunion of Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens with their family members from overseas. The program is designed to strengthen family ties and support multicultural community building within Australia. Various visa categories exist within this program to accommodate different family relationships, including partners, children, parents, and other family members. Each category has specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.
Partner Visa (subclasses 820/801 onshore, 309/100 offshore)
Allows spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia.
Typically involves applying for a temporary visa first, followed by a permanent visa after meeting relationship continuation conditions.
Parent Visa (subclass 103, Contributory Parent 143/173):
For parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Subject to application caps and long waiting times, with Contributory Parent visas offering a faster but costlier option.
Child Visa (subclass 101 offshore, 802 onshore):
Enables dependent children, orphan relatives, or adopted children of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently.
Carer Visa (subclass 116/836):
Allows individuals to live in Australia permanently to provide care to a relative with no reasonable access to other care options.
Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115/835):
For individuals who have no other close family members outside Australia and wish to live permanently with their only remaining relatives in Australia.
Family Visas in Australia: Navigating the Path to Unity and Contribution
Family visas in Australia underscore the government’s commitment to family unity and support, providing pathways for families to live together while contributing to the diversity and social fabric of the Australian community. However, applicants must navigate a complex and often lengthy application process, including proving their relationships and meeting health and character requirements.