Australia is a dream destination for many individuals and families around the world, known for its high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and robust educational system. For those considering making the move, understanding the visa sponsorship options available can make the process smoother and more manageable. This guide provides detailed insights into the various visa sponsorship options for migrating to Australia with your family.
Migrating to Australia is a significant step, and bringing your family along involves careful planning and understanding of the different visa options available. Whether you’re a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, or have family ties in Australia, there are several pathways to help you and your loved ones settle in this vibrant and diverse country.
Overview
Australia offers a range of visa options to help skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and their families migrate and settle. These visas not only allow primary applicants to live and work in Australia but also enable family members to join them, ensuring a smooth transition for the entire family. Below, we outline the main visa categories, eligibility requirements, application processes, and tips to help you navigate your migration journey.
Why Choose Australia?
Australia is known for its high living standards, diverse culture, and economic stability. The country offers a high quality of life with excellent healthcare, education, and social services. The Australian economy is robust, with opportunities in various sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, education, and trade. Furthermore, Australia’s natural beauty, with its stunning beaches, national parks, and vibrant cities, makes it an attractive destination for immigrants.
Skilled Migration Visas
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Description: The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. This visa allows you to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.
Eligibility:
- Must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Must pass a points test (minimum 65 points).
- Must be under 45 years of age.
- Must have a positive skills assessment.
- Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
Application Process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system. Your EOI will be ranked based on your points score, and higher-ranking candidates will be invited to apply.
- Invitation to Apply: If invited, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the ITA. Include all necessary documents, such as proof of your skills assessment, English proficiency, and personal identification.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete mandatory health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Permanent residency for you and your family.
- Access to Medicare (Australia’s healthcare system).
- Opportunity to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Description: The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government. This visa allows you to live and work permanently in Australia.
Eligibility:
- Must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Must pass a points test (minimum 65 points).
- Must be under 45 years of age.
- Must have a positive skills assessment.
- Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government.
Application Process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system, selecting the states or territories where you are willing to live.
- State Nomination: Apply for nomination from a state or territory government. Each state or territory has its own nomination requirements and processes.
- Invitation to Apply: If nominated, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the ITA, including necessary documents.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Permanent residency for you and your family.
- Access to Medicare.
- Opportunity to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
- Additional points awarded for state or territory nomination, increasing your chances of selection.
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Description: The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a points-based visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member to live and work in regional Australia. It is a temporary visa that can lead to permanent residency.
Eligibility:
- Must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Must pass a points test (minimum 65 points).
- Must be under 45 years of age.
- Must have a positive skills assessment.
- Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Must be nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
Application Process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system, selecting regions where you are willing to live.
- State Nomination or Family Sponsorship: Apply for nomination from a state or territory government or obtain sponsorship from an eligible family member.
- Invitation to Apply: If nominated or sponsored, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the ITA, including necessary documents.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted a temporary visa.
Benefits:
- Temporary residency for five years.
- Pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 (Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)) visa.
- Incentives for living and working in regional areas, including additional points for regional sponsorship.
Employer-Sponsored Visas
1. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186)
Description: The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) allows skilled workers who are nominated by their employer to live and work permanently in Australia.
Eligibility:
- Must be nominated by an approved Australian employer.
- Must be under 45 years of age.
- Must have a relevant skills assessment.
- Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Must have at least three years of relevant work experience.
Application Process:
- Employer Nomination: Your employer must submit a nomination application on your behalf.
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within six months of the nomination approval, including necessary documents.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Permanent residency for you and your family.
- Access to Medicare.
- Opportunity to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
2. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)
Description: The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482) allows skilled workers to work in Australia for an approved business for up to four years. It can be a pathway to permanent residency.
Eligibility:
- Must be sponsored by an approved business.
- Must have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Must have relevant work experience.
Application Process:
- Sponsorship: The employer must be an approved sponsor and nominate you for a position.
- Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within six months of the nomination approval, including necessary documents.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted a temporary visa.
Benefits:
- Temporary residency for up to four years.
- Pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) visa or Subclass 187 (Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme) visa.
- Opportunity to live and work in Australia with your family.
Family-Sponsored Visas
1. Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 and Subclass 309/100)
Description: The Partner Visa allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
Eligibility:
- Must be in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Must meet health and character requirements.
- For Subclass 820/801, the applicant must be in Australia; for Subclass 309/100, the applicant must be outside Australia.
Application Process:
- Initial Application: Lodge an application for the temporary partner visa (Subclass 820 or 309) including all necessary documents such as proof of relationship, identity documents, and evidence of cohabitation.
- Temporary Visa Grant: If successful, you will be granted a temporary visa allowing you to live in Australia.
- Permanent Visa Application: After a set period, typically two years, apply for the permanent partner visa (Subclass 801 or 100
).
- Permanent Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Temporary and permanent residency options.
- Opportunity to live, work, and study in Australia.
- Access to Medicare.
- Pathway to citizenship.
2. Parent Visa (Subclass 103 and Subclass 804)
Description: The Parent Visa allows parents of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia permanently.
Eligibility:
- Must have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Must meet the balance of family test.
- Must meet health and character requirements.
Application Process:
- Initial Application: Lodge an application for the parent visa including all necessary documents such as proof of relationship, identity documents, and evidence of financial support.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Permanent residency.
- Opportunity to live with your family in Australia.
- Access to Medicare.
3. Child Visa (Subclass 101 and Subclass 802)
Description: The Child Visa allows a child of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia permanently.
Eligibility:
- Must be a dependent child of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Must be under 18 years of age (or meet specific conditions if over 18).
- Must meet health and character requirements.
Application Process:
- Initial Application: Lodge an application for the child visa including all necessary documents such as proof of relationship, identity documents, and evidence of dependency.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, the child will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Permanent residency.
- Opportunity to live with your family in Australia.
- Access to Medicare.
Business and Investment Visas
1. Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 188)
Description: The Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 188) is for individuals with business skills who want to operate a new or existing business in Australia.
Eligibility:
- Must be nominated by a state or territory government.
- Must meet the specific stream requirements (Business Innovation, Investor, or Significant Investor).
- Must meet health and character requirements.
Application Process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system.
- State Nomination: Apply for nomination from a state or territory government. Each state or territory has its own nomination requirements and processes.
- Invitation to Apply: If nominated, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the ITA, including necessary documents.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted a temporary visa.
Benefits:
- Temporary residency for up to four years and three months.
- Pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 (Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent)) visa.
- Opportunity to invest and contribute to the Australian economy.
2. Business Talent (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 132)
Description: The Business Talent (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 132) is for individuals with an established history of successful business ownership or investment activity.
Eligibility:
- Must be nominated by a state or territory government.
- Must meet the significant business history or venture capital entrepreneur stream requirements.
- Must meet health and character requirements.
Application Process:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system.
- State Nomination: Apply for nomination from a state or territory government. Each state or territory has its own nomination requirements and processes.
- Invitation to Apply: If nominated, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the visa.
- Visa Application: Lodge your visa application within 60 days of receiving the ITA, including necessary documents.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
- Visa Grant: If successful, you and your family members will be granted permanent residency.
Benefits:
- Permanent residency.
- Opportunity to establish a new or develop an existing business in Australia.
- Access to Medicare and other social services.
Conclusion
Migrating to Australia with your family involves careful planning and understanding of the various visa options available. Whether you are a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, or have family ties in Australia, there are pathways to help you achieve your dream of living in this vibrant and diverse country. By choosing the right visa, meeting the eligibility criteria, and following the application process diligently, you can make the transition smoothly and enjoy all the benefits Australia has to offer.
For more information on specific visa types, eligibility requirements, and application processes, visit the Department of Home Affairs and Australia.gov.au.
Start your journey today and explore the possibilities that await you and your family in Australia!
FAQs
1. What is the processing time for a skilled migration visa?
The processing time for skilled migration visas can vary. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the visa subclass, the completeness of your application, and the current processing times at the Department of Home Affairs.
2. Can my family work and study in Australia on a family-sponsored visa?
Yes, family members included in your visa application can live, work, and study in Australia. However, certain conditions may apply depending on the visa subclass. For example, on a partner visa, your spouse can work and study without any restrictions.
3. What are the costs associated with applying for a family-sponsored visa?
The costs for applying for a family-sponsored visa vary depending on the visa subclass. Generally, there are application fees, health examination fees, and other associated costs. It’s essential to check the current fee schedule on the Department of Home Affairs website before applying.
4. Can I include my extended family members in my visa application?
Most visas allow you to include your spouse and dependent children in your application. Including extended family members, such as parents or siblings, usually requires separate visa applications. Some visas, like the Parent Visa, specifically cater to parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
5. What happens if my visa application is refused?
If your visa application is refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply. The refusal letter will provide information on whether you have appeal rights and the steps you need to take. It’s advisable to seek legal advice or consult with a registered migration agent if your application is refused.
6. How can I demonstrate my relationship for a partner visa?
To demonstrate your relationship for a partner visa, you will need to provide evidence of a genuine and ongoing relationship. This can include joint bank account statements, rental agreements, photographs, communication records, and statutory declarations from friends and family.
7. Can I apply for permanent residency directly, or do I need to apply for a provisional visa first?
Whether you can apply directly for permanent residency or need to apply for a provisional visa first depends on the visa subclass. For example, the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) allow direct permanent residency applications. In contrast, the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is a temporary visa that leads to permanent residency.
8. Do I need to use a migration agent to apply for a visa?
Using a migration agent is not mandatory, but it can be beneficial, especially for complex cases. A registered migration agent can provide expert advice, help you prepare your application, and increase your chances of a successful outcome. However, many applicants successfully apply for visas on their own by carefully following the guidelines provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
9. What is the balance of family test for a parent visa?
The balance of family test requires that at least half of your children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who are usually resident in Australia, or you must have more children living in Australia than in any other single country.
10. How long does it take to process a parent visa?
Parent visa processing times can be quite lengthy, often taking several years due to high demand and limited places. It’s essential to check the current processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website and plan accordingly.
Migrating to Australia is an exciting journey that opens up numerous opportunities for you and your family. By understanding the different visa options, meeting the eligibility criteria, and following the application processes, you can make a successful transition to your new life in Australia.