Sponsoring someone to Australia is a rewarding but detailed process that allows Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to bring their loved ones or skilled workers to live, work, or stay in Australia either temporarily or permanently. Whether you want to sponsor a spouse, parent, child, or employee, following the correct procedure, meeting eligibility criteria, and providing appropriate documents to ensure a smooth and successful application is important.

How to Sponsor Someone to Australia – Step-by-Step Guide

The following step-by-step guide outlines everything you need to know to sponsor someone to Australia successfully.

Step 1: Identify the Right Sponsorship Pathway

Before starting any application, you must determine the most suitable visa subclass based on your relationship with the person you want to sponsor and the purpose of their stay.

Main Sponsorship Categories Include:

Partner or Family Sponsorship:

Partner Visa (subclass 820/801 or 309/100)
Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300)
Parent Visa (subclass 103, 143, etc.)
Child Visa (subclass 101, 802)

Employer Sponsorship:

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482
Employer Nomination Scheme – Subclass 186
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa – Subclass 494

Humanitarian or Community Sponsorship:

Community Support Program (CSP) for refugees

Step 2: Ensure You (the Sponsor) Meet Eligibility Criteria

As a sponsor, you must fulfil certain requirements depending on the visa subclass. Generally, sponsors must:

• Be 18 years or older
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
• Be financially stable and able to support the applicant
• Have no major criminal record
• Not have breached previous sponsorship obligations (especially for partner visas)
• Be willing to sign a sponsorship declaration (if required)

Note: For employer-sponsored visas, the sponsoring business must be legally operating and approved as a Standard Business Sponsor (SBS).  

Step 3: Confirm the Applicant’s Eligibility

The person you are sponsoring must also meet certain requirements, such as:

• Having a genuine relationship with the sponsor (for family/partner visas)
• Meeting health and character requirements
• Having skills and qualifications for the job (for skilled work visas)
• Holding relevant documents like a passport, qualifications, and work experience records

In some cases, the applicant may also need to take an English language test or get their skills assessed by an authorised body.

Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents

Collect all necessary documents to support the sponsorship and visa application. These may include:

Sponsor Documents:

• Passport or citizenship certificate
• Proof of residency (visa grant letter, etc.)
• Evidence of relationship (marriage certificate, joint bills, etc.)
• Financial statements (payslips, bank statements)

Applicant Documents:

• Passport and identity documents
• Police clearance certificates
• Health checks (medical exam results)
• Qualifications or skills assessment
• Relationship proof (photos, letters, chat records – for partner/family visas)
• Employment contract and job offer (for skilled workers)

Step 5: Lodge the Sponsorship and Visa Applications

The process often includes two separate applications:

1. Sponsorship Application (submitted by the sponsor)
2. Visa Application (submitted by the applicant)

For most visa types, these applications can be submitted online through the ImmiAccount portal on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Some visa categories allow both parts to be submitted together, while others require you to lodge the sponsorship first and wait for approval before applying for the visa. 

Also, read >> How Does Sponsorship Work in Australia

Step 6: Pay the Visa and Sponsorship Fees

Visa fees vary depending on the subclass. For example:

• Partner visa: Around AUD 8,850 (as of 2025)
• Parent visas: Can range from AUD 4,500 to over AUD 47,000
• TSS visa (subclass 482): Starts from AUD 1,330, plus nomination and sponsorship charges

You’ll also need to pay for:

• Health checks
• Police certificates
• Skills assessments (if required)

Employers sponsoring workers also pay a Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy, which depends on business turnover and duration of employment.

Step 7: Wait for the Application to Be Processed

Once the application is submitted and the fees are paid, the Department of Home Affairs will begin processing it. This involves:

• Reviewing documents
• Verifying the relationship (for family visas)
• Conducting background checks
• Assessing eligibility and sponsor obligations

Processing times vary by visa type. For example:

• Partner visa: 12–24 months
• Parent visa: Can take several years (for non-contributory)
• Skilled work visa: 1–6 months, depending on priority 

Step 8: Respond to Requests for More Information

During processing, immigration officers may request additional documents or schedule interviews. It’s important to:

• Respond promptly
• Submit high-quality, clear documents
• Keep your ImmiAccount updated with any changes

Delays in responding can extend processing times or lead to refusals.

Step 9: Receive the Visa Outcome

Once your application is assessed, the Department will issue a decision notice. If approved, the applicant will receive a visa grant letter outlining:

• Visa conditions
• Validity period
• Travel restrictions or work rights (if any)

If the visa is refused, the letter will explain the reasons and whether you have the right to appeal through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

Step 10: Comply with Sponsorship Obligations

If the visa is granted, the sponsor has responsibilities, such as:

• Providing financial and housing support (for family visas)
• Ensuring the sponsored worker complies with job terms (for employer visas)
• Notifying the Department of any changes in the applicant’s situation

Failing to meet these obligations can affect future sponsorships or lead to penalties. 

Also, read>>Common Mistakes to Avoid in Partner Visa Applications

Final Thoughts

Sponsoring someone in Australia involves more than just submitting a few forms — it’s a detailed process that requires careful planning, eligibility checks, and accurate documentation. Whether you’re sponsoring a loved one or a skilled employee, following the correct steps can greatly improve your chances of a successful outcome.

For complex cases, it’s highly recommended to consult a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer who can guide you through the process and reduce the risk of refusal.

By following the steps above, you’ll be well on your way to bringing your family member or employee to Australia — legally, confidently, and successfully.