Family&PartnerVisas
Reunite with your loved ones in Australia
Comprehensive pathways for partners, children, and parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents
Family Immigration to Australia
Australia's family visa program enables partners, children, parents and other family members of Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens to join their relatives in Australia. We provide expert guidance through every step of your family reunion journey.
Multiple visa options for partners, parents, and children
Temporary and permanent visa pathways available
Processing times vary from months to years
Balance-of-family test for parent visas
Assurance of Support requirements for certain visas
Visa Categories
Partner Visas (820/801 & 309/100)
For spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible NZ citizens. Two-stage process to permanent residence.
Prospective Marriage Visa (300)
For overseas fiancé(e)s planning to marry their Australian partner. 9-month visa leading to partner visa pathway.
Contributory Parent Visas (143/173)
Faster processing parent visas with higher fees. AUD $48,495 total cost with 10-year processing time.
Non-Contributory Parent Visa (103)
Lower cost parent visa option at AUD $5,000 but with processing times up to 30 years.
Contributory Aged Parent (864/884)
For parents of pension age with faster processing than standard parent visas. Must meet age pension requirements.
Sponsored Parent Visa (870)
Temporary 3 or 5-year visa for parents. No pathway to PR but quick processing in months. AUD $6,000-$11,000.
Child Visas (101/102/802)
For dependent children, adopted children, or orphan relatives of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Remaining Relative Visa (115/835)
For those whose only near relatives live in Australia. Very specific eligibility requirements apply.
Key Benefits
Family Reunion
Reunite with partners, children, parents and eligible relatives in Australia
Work & Study Rights
Most family visas include full work and study rights in Australia
Medicare Access
Access to Australia's public healthcare system for most visa holders
Path to Citizenship
Permanent family visas provide pathway to Australian citizenship
Travel Freedom
Multiple entry rights during visa validity period
Sponsor Family
Permanent residents can sponsor other eligible family members
Application Process
Assess Eligibility
Determine which family visa suits your relationship and circumstances
Gather Evidence
Collect comprehensive documentation proving relationship and meeting requirements
Lodge Application
Submit complete application with all supporting documents
Health & Character Checks
Complete medical examinations and provide police clearances
Await Decision
Processing times vary significantly by visa type
Visa Grant
Receive visa grant and comply with any conditions
Requirements
Sponsor Requirements
- Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen
- Meet character requirements
- Provide financial support if required
- Not have sponsored 2+ partners previously
- Meet sponsorship limitations periods
Applicant Requirements
- Genuine and continuing relationship
- Meet health requirements
- Meet character requirements
- No outstanding debts to Australian government
- Best interests of any children considered
Relationship Requirements
- 12+ months relationship duration (partners)
- Evidence of genuine commitment
- Living together or compelling reasons for separation
- Joint financial arrangements
- Social recognition of relationship
Frequently Asked Questions
Which parent visa should I choose?
Choose based on your priorities: Contributory visas (143/173) cost ~$48,495 but process in ~10 years. Non-contributory (103) costs ~$5,000 but takes up to 30 years. Sponsored (870) is temporary but processes in months for $6,000-$11,000.
What is the Balance-of-Family test?
At least half your children must be Australian citizens/PR/eligible NZ citizens, OR more children live in Australia than any other single country. Not required for 870 visa.
How does Assurance of Support work?
AoS is a financial commitment where the assurer guarantees the visa holder won't claim certain welfare. Requires income proof and a refundable bond held for 2-10 years depending on visa type.
Can I apply onshore or must I be offshore?
Depends on visa: Onshore visas (804, 864, 884, 820, 802) - must be in Australia. Offshore visas (103, 143, 173, 309, 101) - must be outside Australia. 870 can be applied offshore.
What evidence do I need for partner visas?
Joint finances, shared living arrangements, social recognition, travel together, statutory declarations, photos over time, and any legal documents showing commitment.
Can I work on a family visa?
Most family visas include full work rights. Some temporary visas may have restrictions. Check specific visa conditions.
Is there a pathway from 870 to permanent residence?
No, the 870 Sponsored Parent visa does not lead to PR. You must apply separately for a permanent parent visa if desired.
How long do partner visas take?
Currently 12-24 months for temporary partner visa (820/309) and additional 6-12 months for permanent stage (801/100).
What if my relationship breaks down?
Special provisions exist for domestic violence, death of sponsor, or if you have children. Seek immediate professional advice if relationship ends.
Can I include my children in my application?
Yes, dependent children under 23 (or over if dependent due to disability) can be included in most family visa applications.
Ready to Reunite with Your Family?
Let our experienced migration agents guide you through the complex family visa process with personalized support and expertise.