Australia offers several pathways for citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to reunite with their loved ones by sponsoring family members to live in the country. If you’re planning to bring your spouse, children, parents, or other close relatives to Australia, it’s important to understand the available visa options, sponsorship obligations, and the application process.   

How To Sponsor a Family to Australia

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to sponsor a family to Australia.

Who Can Sponsor a Family Member?

To sponsor a family member, you must generally meet the following requirements:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Be 18 years or older.
• Be settled in Australia, usually having lived in the country for at least two years.
• Meet character requirements and agree to certain financial and accommodation responsibilities for the sponsored family member.

Types of Family Visas in Australia

Australia offers different visa categories depending on your relationship with the family member you wish to sponsor:

a. Partner Visas

For sponsoring a spouse, de facto partner, or fiancé(e).

• Subclass 820/801 – Onshore partner visa (temporary and permanent).
• Subclass 309/100 – Offshore partner visa.
• Subclass 300 – Prospective Marriage Visa (for fiancés living overseas).

b. Parent Visas

For sponsoring your parents to live in Australia.

• Subclass 143 – Contributory Parent visa (permanent).
• Subclass 103 – Parent visa (non-contributory, but long processing times).
• Subclass 870 – Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa – allows stays of up to 10 years.

c. Child Visas

For sponsoring your dependent or adopted children.

• Subclass 101 – Child visa (offshore).
• Subclass 802 – Child visa (onshore).
• Subclass 102 – Adoption visa.

d. Other Family Visas

For other eligible relatives, such as:

• Subclass 115/835 – Remaining Relative Visa.
• Subclass 114/838 – Aged Dependent Relative Visa.
• Subclass 116/836 – Carer Visa (for relatives providing care due to medical needs).

Sponsorship Obligations

As a sponsor, you must:

• Provide financial support, including accommodation and basic living needs, usually for the first two years.
• Ensure the applicant does not rely on public welfare or services.
• Assist the applicant with settling into Australian life, such as finding housing, enrolling in schools, and accessing health services.

For some visas, like the Sponsored Parent Visa (Subclass 870), you may also be required to lodge a Sponsorship Application separately and meet an income threshold.

Steps to Sponsor a Family Member

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Determine your eligibility as a sponsor and ensure your relationship with the family member is valid under Australian immigration law.

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa

Identify the most appropriate visa subclass for your situation. For example, a partner visa for your spouse or a parent visa for your mother or father.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

Gather all necessary documents, including:

• Identity documents.
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, photos).
• Health and character assessments.
• Financial and accommodation details.

Step 4: Submit Application

Apply online or through a registered migration agent. Depending on the visa, you may need to lodge the sponsorship and visa applications either together or separately.

Step 5: Await Processing and Provide Updates

Processing times can vary from a few months to several years. Keep documents updated and respond to any requests from the Department of Home Affairs.

Tips for a Successful Family Sponsorship

• Seek professional advice if your case is complex or involves multiple dependents.
• Be thorough and honest in your application – inconsistencies may result in visa refusal.
• Stay informed of any changes to immigration laws or processing procedures.

Conclusion

Sponsoring a family member to migrate to Australia is a rewarding yet detailed process that requires careful planning, the right visa choice, and strong supporting documents. Whether you’re reuniting with a partner, bringing your child home, or supporting your parents in their later years, Australia provides options for families to stay together. Consulting a MARA-registered migration agent can also help navigate any complex requirements and increase your chances of success. A MARA-registered migration agent can also help navigate any complex requirements and increase your chances of success.