New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)

Ineligibility Criteria:

• Ineligible if an Australian citizen or New Zealand citizen.
• If becoming a New Zealand citizen during processing, options include continuing with the application or withdrawing it for a Subclass 444 visa application.

Relationship to a New Zealand Citizen:

You may be eligible if:

• • A family member of a New Zealand citizen holding a Subclass 444 visa in Australia or will obtain it upon entry.
  • In Australia and:
    • Holds a Subclass 461 visa or the last substantive visa was a Subclass 461 visa.
    • No longer a family unit member of a previous Subclass 461 visa holder.
    • Not a family unit member of another person.

• Outside Australia and:

• • Either resided in Australia on a Subclass 461 visa for at least 2 years in the past 5 years or has substantial ties.
  • Held a Subclass 461 visa when last leaving Australia.
  • No longer a family unit member of a previous Subclass 461 visa holder.
  • Not a family unit member of another person.

Immigration Status When Applying:

• If outside Australia: Apply without needing another visa.
• If in Australia: Must hold a substantive temporary visa (excluding Subclass 403 in the Domestic Worker stream).

General Eligibility Requirements:

• Meet health and character requirements.
• Health insurance is mandatory.
• Sign the Australian values statement.
• Clear any debts to the Australian Government.
• No visa cancellations or previous refusals.
• Consideration for the best interests of the child.
• Must not have a No Further Stay condition.

Visa Privileges:

• Live, work, and study in Australia for 5 years.
• Multiple entry rights within the 5-year period.
• Temporary visa validity from the date of grant.

Including Family:

• Combine family members in the application.
• Family members must meet health and character requirements.

Duration and Extension:

• Temporary visa valid for 5 years.
• Cannot stay beyond visa cessation unless holding another visa.
• Eligible for a further Subclass 461 visa if requirements are met.

Cost:

• Main applicant: AUD420.00
• Family members (over 18): AUD215.00
• Family members (under 18): AUD105.00 (for combined application with the main applicant).
• Additional costs may apply for health exams, police certificates, and biometrics.