Introduction
Australia provides a variety of visa options to reunite families. Whether you are a partner, parent, child, or other family member of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, there are specific visas available for you. Each visa subclass has its unique eligibility requirements and benefits, which will be detailed in this guide.
Australia’s Partner Visas
Partner visas are designed for individuals in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. These visas allow the visa holder to live, work, and study in Australia.
Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/309)
This visa is granted to applicants who are either married or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It allows the applicant to stay in Australia temporarily while awaiting the decision on their permanent visa application.
Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100)
This visa is granted to applicants who have held a temporary partner visa and continue to meet the relationship requirements. It allows the visa holder to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, as well as access healthcare and social security benefits.
Australia’s Child Visas
Child visas are intended for the dependent children of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. There are three main types of child visas:
Child Visa (Subclass 101)
This visa is for children who are outside Australia and are the dependent child of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It allows the child to live, study, and work in Australia indefinitely.
Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)
This temporary visa is for children whose parent holds a temporary partner visa (Subclass 309). It allows the child to travel to and from Australia, attend school, and access healthcare while their parent’s permanent partner visa is being processed.
Adoption Visa (Subclass 102)
This visa is for children who have been adopted or are in the process of being adopted by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It allows the child to live, study, and work in Australia indefinitely.
Australia’s Parent Visas
Parent visas are designed for the parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents. The eligibility for a parent visa includes meeting income and residence requirements, as well as specific healthcare criteria. Accepted parents can live with their children in Australia through a Parent Visa.
Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa
The Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa is suitable for applicants who have overseas dependent children.
Contributory Parent Visa
Applicants without dependent children who meet other eligibility criteria may be able to apply for the Contributory Parent Visa.
Aged Parent Visa
Those aged 65 years and over may be eligible for the Aged Parent Visa.
Application Process
Applying for a partner or child visa involves several steps, including gathering documents, completing application forms, and submitting the application. The application process for a parent visa in Australia is a multi-step process that includes completing the online application form, paying the application fees, and possibly submitting supporting documents, such as financial evidence, medical records, and police certificates.
Processing Time
The processing time for Partner and Child visa applications can take several months or even years. The Australian Parent Visa processing time can take anywhere from 6-12 months, and it’s generally recommended to allow at least 8 months for the process.
For detailed instructions and personalised advice, it is recommended to consult with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer. This guide provides general information, and visa regulations and requirements can change frequently, so staying informed about any updates that may affect your application is essential.
