Family-Sponsored Visitor Visa
Overview of the Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600 - Family Sponsored Stream)
The Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600 – Family Sponsored Stream) is designed for applicants who wish to visit their family members in Australia for a short-term stay. This visa requires sponsorship from an eligible Australian relative and is primarily intended for family visits. The visa is typically granted for 3 to 12 months, with the exact duration determined by the Department of Home Affairs based on individual circumstances.
Requirements for the Australia Family-Sponsored Visitor Visa
1. Basic Conditions
- Must hold a valid passport.
- Must have a clear purpose of visiting family and intend to return to the home country before the visa expires.
- Must have a sponsor in Australia who meets financial and eligibility requirements.
2. Financial Proof
- Bank statements (recommended 3-6 months of transaction history).
- Documents proving financial capacity, such as pay slips or financial support documents from the sponsor.
3. Health and Character Requirements
- A medical examination may be required depending on the length of stay.
- Must have no significant criminal record, and a police clearance certificate may be required if necessary.
4. Sponsor Requirements
- The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Must provide a valid sponsorship declaration, including financial and accommodation support.
5. Additional Requirements
- Proof of family relationship with the sponsor (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate).
- A detailed travel itinerary, including planned visits and return arrangements.
Application Process for the Family-Sponsored Visitor Visa
1. Determine Visa Category
This visa falls under Subclass 600 – Family Sponsored Stream, requiring an eligible Australian sponsor to support the application.
2. Prepare Required Documents
- Copy of passport (including signature page).
- Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate).
- Sponsor’s supporting documents, such as an invitation letter, financial proof, and sponsorship declaration.
- Applicant’s financial documents, such as bank statements and pay slips.
3. Submit the Application
- Online application: Submit through the ImmiAccount platform.
- Paper application: Submit at the nearest Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC).
4. Pay the Visa Fee
- Pay the visa application fee and keep the receipt for reference.
5. Processing & Possible Additional Requirements
- Applicants may be asked to provide additional documents or attend a phone interview during processing.
6. Visa Decision Notification
- The decision will be sent via email, and if approved, the visa will be issued electronically.
Visa Fees for the Australia Family-Sponsored Visitor Visa
- Visa application fee: Approximately AU$150 – AU$190 (subject to the latest government policies).
- Medical examination fee: RMB 400-500 (varies by medical institution).
- Document notarization fees: Depends on the required documents, typically starting from a few hundred RMB.
Processing Time for the Family-Sponsored Visitor Visa
- 75% of applications are processed within 21 days.
- 90% of applications are processed within 35 days.
Processing times may vary based on location, application category, and document completeness.
Key Advantages of the Australia Family-Sponsored Visitor Visa
- Reunite with Family: Allows short-term visits to spend quality time with family in Australia.
- Flexible Financial Support: The sponsor can provide financial assistance, reducing the applicant’s financial burden.
- Flexible Stay Duration: Options available for 3 to 12 months depending on individual needs.
- Easy Application Process: The visa can be applied for online or through a visa center, ensuring a transparent and straightforward process.