A Step-by-Step Look at How Family Sponsored Visas Work in Australia

Are you looking to reunite with family members living in Australia but aren’t sure how to apply for a family sponsored visa? Whether you want to visit your parents, children, or siblings, the Family Sponsored Visa under the Visitor Visa Subclass 600 is a popular option for family reunification. This visa allows families to come together for a temporary stay, typically lasting up to 12 months, so you can create precious memories with your loved ones.

But how exactly does the process work, and what do you need to do to qualify? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Family Sponsored Visa. From eligibility to the application process, we’ve got you covered.

Please note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

What is the Family Sponsored Visa?

A family sponsored visa is designed for people who want to visit their relatives living in Australia. This visa is specifically part of the Visitor Visa Subclass 600, allowing the sponsor (a relative who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident) to bring their family member to Australia for a short-term visit.

The best part? This visa allows families to reunite, even if it’s only for a brief time, like a holiday or family gathering. It’s perfect for those who want to be together for special occasions like weddings, birthdays, or other important family events.

However, to apply for this visa, you need to meet certain criteria, including sponsorship from an eligible relative in Australia. Let’s explore the eligibility requirements that both the applicant and sponsor must meet to make this happen.

Eligibility Criteria for the Family Sponsored Visa

Before you start the application process, it’s important to know if you suffice the eligibility criteria for a family sponsored visa. Here are the key criteria you must fulfil:

• Sponsorship by a Family Member

You must have an Australian citizen or Australian PR relative who is willing to sponsor you. The sponsor must be responsible for your stay in Australia and financially support you throughout your visit.

• Relationship Criteria

Your sponsor must be a close relative. Eligible relationships include:

• Parents

• Children

• Siblings

• Grandparents, uncles, aunts, and nephews

However, fiancés, cousins, friends, or New Zealand citizens cannot act as sponsors. It’s also important to note that the sponsor must have lived in Australia for at least two years to be eligible.

• Financial Assurance

The sponsor must be financially stable and provide a financial bond if necessary, ensuring that you are financially supported during your stay in Australia. The sponsor’s ability to financially back your stay is a crucial aspect of the application process.

If you meet the sponsorship and relationship criteria, it’s time to move on to the next step: understanding the application process for the family sponsored visa Australia.

How to Apply for a Family Sponsored Visa

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, it’s time to begin the application process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you need to do:

Step 1: Find an Eligible Sponsor

The first step is to ensure you have a sponsor who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident and has lived in Australia for at least two years. Your sponsor must be over 18 and show they have the means to support you financially during your visit.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Next, you’ll need to gather the required documents for your application. These documents include:

• Identification documents (passport, national ID)
• Proof of your relationship with the sponsor (birth certificates, marriage certificates)
• Financial documents from the sponsor (e.g., bank statements, proof of income)
• Sponsorship form (Form 1149) that your sponsor must complete

Step 3: Submit the Application

You’ll submit your application online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Both you and your sponsor must provide all necessary details and documents as part of the process.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, the processing time can vary, typically taking a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case. Make sure you apply while outside Australia for a smoother process.

With your documents ready and the application submitted, it’s time to wait for approval. Let’s now take a look at the documents required for your Family Sponsored Visa application.

Documents Necessary for a Family Sponsored Visa

To ensure your application is complete and accurate, you need to submit the following supportive documentation:

• Identification Documents

You’ll need to provide your passport, national ID card, or any other official documents that verify your identity.

• Proof of Relationship

Documents that confirm your relationship with the sponsor, such as birth certificates, family tree details, or marriage certificates, are essential.

• Sponsorship Evidence

Your sponsor must submit Form 1149 (Sponsorship for Visitor Visa) and provide financial documents showing they can support you during your stay.

• Financial Stability

Provide evidence of your own financial means, such as bank statements or proof of assets, to show you can support yourself while in Australia.

• Travel Itinerary

Your travel itinerary should include flight details and accommodation arrangements for your stay.

• Health and Character Certificates

Depending on your country of origin, you may need to submit health assessments and police clearance certificates to meet Australia’s health and character requirements.

These documents are necessary for a smooth application. Let’s now take a look at the obligations and responsibilities for both you and your sponsor.

Conditions and Obligations for the Family Sponsored Visa 

Once your family sponsored visa Australia is granted, both you and your sponsor have certain responsibilities to fulfil during your stay.

• Visa Conditions for the Applicant

You must comply with Australian laws, leave Australia before your visa expires, and only engage in activities permitted by the visa (e.g., work restrictions).

• Sponsor’s Responsibilities

Your sponsor is responsible for ensuring you follow all visa conditions, including leaving Australia on time. They are also obligated to support you financially throughout your stay.

• Rights and Benefits for the Applicant

With a family sponsored visa Australia, you can stay in Australia for up to 12 months. During this time, you can engage in short-term study and work for up to 3 months.

Both you and your sponsor have specific obligations, but the benefits are clear. Now, let’s explore the reapplication process if you want to return to Australia after your visit.

Reapplying for a Family Sponsored Visa 

Sometimes, after your initial visit, you may wish to reapply for the family sponsored visa Australia. Here’s what you need to know:

• No Waiting Period

There’s no mandatory waiting period to reapply. You can apply again at any time.

• Follow Visa Guidelines

If you followed all the conditions during your previous visit, your chances of approval increase when you reapply.

• Avoid Raising Red Flags

Applying too frequently might raise concerns with immigration officials, so it’s advisable to wait a reasonable amount of time between applications.

Reapplying is possible, but be mindful of the guidelines. Let’s look at some of the most common reasons why Family Sponsored Visas are rejected.

Common Reasons for Family Sponsored Visa Refusal

To increase your chances of approval, avoid these common pitfalls that could lead to your visa being rejected:

• Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

One of the most frequent reasons for visa refusals is missing or inaccurate paperwork. Always ensure that every document is complete and accurate.

• Insufficient Financial Support Evidence

If you or your sponsor can’t provide sufficient evidence of financial stability, your visa may be refused.

• Unclear Intentions to Return

If you fail to demonstrate that you intend to return to your home country after your visit, immigration officials may reject your application.

• Previous Visa Breaches

If you’ve overstayed your visa or violated conditions in the past, this will negatively impact your application.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can boost your chances of approval. Now, let’s address the extension options for your Family Sponsored Visa.

Extension Options for Visitor Visa Subclass 600

Extending the family sponsored visa in Australia can be challenging due to the Condition 8503 – No Further Stay, which is often applied to this visa. This condition means that once your visa expires, you must leave Australia and are not allowed to apply for another visa while in the country. However, in some exceptional cases, you may be able to request a waiver for Condition 8503. If granted, this waiver would allow you to apply for a new visa without having to leave Australia. While extending the visa is not typically straightforward, it is possible under certain circumstances, provided you meet the requirements for a waiver.

Final Thoughts

The Family Sponsored Visa Australia offers a fantastic opportunity to reunite with your loved ones in Australia, allowing you to spend quality time together for up to 12 months. Whether you’re visiting family for a holiday, special event, or just to reconnect, this visa makes it possible. However, the process requires careful attention to detail. It’s essential to meet all the eligibility criteria, provide the required documentation, and adhere to the conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs to ensure your application is successful.

Understanding the requirements can be complex, and that’s where Knowbal’s migration experts can help. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the application process, ensuring that your documents are complete and your submission is in line with all visa conditions. Don’t let the paperwork overwhelm you—reach out to us today, and let’s work together to bring your family reunion dreams to life in Australia. The first step towards a successful application is just a consultation away!