Australia Visa Sponsorship: The Easy Way to Apply for a Sponsored Family Visitor Visa

Are you hoping to spend time with your relatives in Australia? Whether it’s for a birthday, wedding, or just to reconnect, the Sponsored Family Visitor Visa makes it easier than ever to visit loved ones legally and stress-free. With the right documents and an eligible sponsor, you can enjoy quality time with family while exploring Australia’s stunning cities and landscapes.

Let’s break down the step-by-step process, who can apply, and how to avoid common mistakes when applying for this visitor visa.

What Is the Sponsored Family Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)?

The Visitor Visa – Sponsored Family Stream (Subclass 600) allows Australian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor close relatives to visit Australia for a short period. This visa is perfect for people who:

• Want to visit family members temporarily

• Are outside Australia at the time of application

• Do not plan to work or study long-term

• Are able to follow all visa conditions, including leaving before the visa expires

The visa is usually granted for 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on your individual situation and the strength of your application.

Who Can Sponsor a Family Visitor?

Not just anyone can be a sponsor. The sponsor must meet certain criteria, including:

• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident

• Be 18 years or older

• Be a close family member such as a spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or niece/nephew

• Be willing to provide financial support and ensure the visitor follows all visa rules

• Be prepared to pay a security bond if required (usually between AUD 5,000 and AUD 15,000)

Sponsors who have previously supported applicants who broke visa rules may not be eligible to sponsor again.

Who Can Apply for the Sponsored Family Visitor Visa?

To apply successfully for this visa, the applicant must:

• Be outside Australia when submitting the application

• Have a valid passport

• Show a genuine reason to visit family

• Prove they intend to leave Australia before the visa expires

• Have strong ties to their home country (like a job, business, home, or family)

• Meet health and character requirements

• Have enough money to cover travel and living expenses

• Provide solid proof of their relationship with the sponsor

Note: This visa does not allow work, but you can study for up to 3 months during your stay.

How to Apply for a Sponsored Family Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

Here’s a clear breakdown of how to apply:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Both the sponsor and the visitor will need to provide specific documents.

Sponsor’s Documents:

• Completed Form 1149 (sponsorship form)

• Proof of identity and residency (passport, citizenship certificate, visa grant)

• Bank statements or payslips

• A signed invitation letter explaining the reason for the visit

• Details of past sponsorships, if any

Applicant’s Documents:

• A valid passport

• Completed Form 1418 (visa application)

• A passport-sized photo

• Proof of family connection (birth or marriage certificates)

• Bank statements showing financial ability

• Employment letter or proof of business (if self-employed)

• Travel plans (flights, accommodation)

• Health insurance

• Police clearance, if requested

Step 2: Submit the Application Online

Both the sponsor and applicant must upload their documents through ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Make sure everything is clear, complete, and submitted under the correct sections.

If required, the sponsor will be notified to pay the security bond before the visa decision is made.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fees

As of 2025, the base fee for the Sponsored Family stream starts at AUD 150, but this can increase depending on your circumstances.

Additional fees may apply for:

• Biometrics appointment

• Health checks

• Priority processing (optional)

Step 4: Attend Biometrics and Medical Exams (If Required)

Some applicants will be asked to:

• Visit a Visa Application Centre to provide biometrics (photo + fingerprints)

• Undergo a health examination, especially if staying for over 6 months or coming from a high-risk country

Step 5: Wait for Your Visa to Be Processed

Visa decisions usually take between 3 to 6 weeks, but processing can take longer if:

• Additional checks are needed

• Documents are missing or unclear

• A security bond is involved

You can check your status anytime by logging into your ImmiAccount.

Step 6: Get Your Visa Decision

If approved, you’ll receive an email with a visa grant letter. This letter includes the visa grant number, conditions, and validity period.

If refused, the letter will explain why and whether you have the right to request a review or reapply.

Avoid These Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

1. Weak Ties to Home Country
   – Show proof you plan to return (job, family, property).

2. Not Enough Funds
   – Submit recent bank statements, payslips, or financial support from your sponsor.

3. Missing Relationship Evidence
   – Include clear proof like family photos, chat history, and legal documents.

4. Previous Visa Violations
   – Be honest and explain any past issues in your cover letter.

5. Incomplete Application
   – Double-check everything before submitting. Missing documents often lead to rejection.

Top Tips for a Smooth Visa Application

• Start early: Apply at least 1–2 months before your intended travel date.

• Be truthful: Giving false or incomplete details can lead to visa refusal.

• Have a detailed invitation letter: The sponsor should explain the reason for the visit and commit to financial support.

• Track your application: Use your ImmiAccount to stay updated and respond quickly to any requests.

Benefits of the Sponsored Family Visitor Visa

The Sponsored Family Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about possibilities. Here are a few reasons why thousands choose it each year:

• Legal stay with peace of mind – No need to worry about overstaying or visa confusion.

• A chance to attend family events – Be present for weddings, birthdays, or reunions.

• Explore Australia while you visit – Enjoy the scenery, culture, and attractions with your loved ones.

• Short-term study permitted – You can take short courses up to 3 months without applying for a separate student visa.

• Future visa eligibility – A well-handled visit visa builds trust for future applications like parent or permanent family visas.

Final Thoughts

The Sponsored Family Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is one of the most accessible ways to reunite with loved ones in Australia—without a long or complicated process. With a supportive sponsor, well-prepared documents, and a clear reason for travel, you’ll be well on your way to creating special memories with your family.

Whether you’re attending a family celebration or just want to reconnect, this visa offers a trusted path to visit legally and safely.

Ready to Reunite with Family in Australia?

Start your application today and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve taken the right steps. If you have questions, ask in the comments below or seek help from a registered migration agent.