Are you thinking about bringing your partner or family member to Australia? The process of sponsoring a partner or family member to come to Australia can be complex, but it’s important to understand the requirements and steps involved in order to successfully bring your loved one to the country.

First, you’ll need to consider whether your partner or family member will be coming to Australia temporarily or permanently. Depending on your circumstances, there may be different visa options available to you.

Australian citizens or permanent residents inviting family

Visa holders inviting family

  • If you are a visa holder in Australia, you’ll need to check whether your visa allows for subsequent entrants (such as a partner or family member) and whether you have previously declared any family members on your visa application. You can find a list of all visas at the following webpage: Visa List
  • If your visa does not allow for subsequent entrants, your partner or family member will need to apply for a visa based on their intention to come to Australia temporarily or permanently. You can explore visa options for bringing your partner or family member to Australia at the following webpage: Visa Options for Joining Family in Australia

Returning Australian bringing overseas-born family

  • If you are a returning Australian citizen bringing an overseas-born family member to Australia, your children may be eligible for Australian citizenship by descent. You can apply for an Australian passport on their behalf after their citizenship application is approved. Otherwise, they will need a visa to come to Australia. Your partner or other family members will also need a visa. You can explore visa options for bringing your partner or family member to Australia at the following webpage: https://homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/partner-other-family-309-100

New Zealand citizens bringing family

The process of sponsoring a partner or family member to come to Australia can take several months to complete, so it’s important to start the process as soon as possible. The Department of Home Affairs recommends that you begin the process at least six months before your loved one is planning to travel to Australia.

If you have any questions about the process of sponsoring a partner or family member to come to Australia, you can visit the Department of Home Affairs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/ or contact us for more information.

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