Australian Family Visas, Child Visas & Citizenship
Australian Family Visas, Child Visas & Citizenship
The journey to bring your family to Australia often extends beyond partners and spouses. As your dedicated family immigration lawyer, Flow Migration Law provides specialised support across all pathways, including the Australian Parent Visa and Australian Child Visa, ensuring your loved ones can join you with clarity and confidence.
Our Family Visa & Citizenship Services
Explore our key services below. From the NZ Citizen Family Relationship Visa (461) to complex parent visas, each pathway is unique and our goal is to provide a clear strategy for your family’s future.
For children, whether they are in Australia or overseas, to join their parents and live permanently in Australia.
A temporary visa for a child whose parent holds a temporary partner visa, allowing them to be added to the permanent visa.
Navigating the complex permanent visa options and long-term planning required for parents to join their children in Australia.
A temporary visa allowing parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to stay for up to five years at a time.
Strategic guidance for partners and family members wishing to visit Australia, meeting genuine temporary stay requirements.
A unique permanent visa pathway for individuals whose only close, eligible relatives are living in Australia.
Dedicated legal support for non-New Zealand family members of New Zealand citizens who are living in Australia
Guidance through the final, exciting step of your migration journey to become a proud Australian citizen.
Unsure Which Pathway is Right for Your Family?
Every family’s circumstances are different. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or the best visa for your loved ones, we’re here to help.
Book a free 20-minute discovery call and let’s talk about what the right path might look like for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can my child be included in a visa application if they are over 18?
Generally, dependents must be under 18. However, an exception exists for children aged 18-22 if you can prove they are wholly or substantially dependent on you for their financial support. This is a high evidence threshold and requires a carefully prepared case to be successful.
Why are Parent Visa processing times so long? Is there a faster way?
Processing times for non-contributory Parent Visas (e.g., Subclass 103) are very long due to high demand and limited government places. The ‘faster’ pathway is typically a Contributory Parent Visa (e.g., Subclass 143), which has a significantly higher government application charge but much faster processing. Choosing the right strategy depends entirely on your family’s budget and long-term goals.
Can my partner work in Australia on a Visitor Visa?
No. A Visitor Visa (Subclass 600, etc.) is strictly for tourism or visiting family and does not permit work. Condition 8101 (“No Work”) is almost always attached to these visas. It is critical to abide by all visa conditions to protect any future applications you may make.
How long do I need to live in Australia before I can apply for citizenship?
The general residence requirement is to have lived in Australia on a valid visa for at least 4 years immediately before applying, with at least 12 months of that time as a permanent resident. There are also specific rules about absences from Australia during that period. We can help you assess your eligibility based on your travel history.
What is the 'Balance of Family Test' for Permanent Parent Visas?
This is a critical eligibility rule for most Parent Visas. It generally means that at least half of your children must be eligible Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible NZ citizens living permanently in Australia. Or, that more of your children live permanently in Australia than in any other single country. This is a strict, mathematical test that requires careful assessment before applying.
Do I need permission from my child's other biological parent to apply for their visa?
Yes, this is a critical requirement. Unless you have sole legal custody, you must have written consent from every person who can legally decide where the child lives. This is usually provided with a signed Form 1229 or a statutory declaration. Navigating this is one of the most sensitive and important parts of a child visa application.
How long does the visa process take?
Processing times for each visa are set by the Department of Home Affairs and can change frequently based on their workload and priorities. For the most current estimates, we recommend checking the official ‘Global Visa Processing Times’ guide on the Department’s website. While we cannot speed up the Department’s queue, our role is to ensure your application is as strong and ‘decision-ready’ as possible from the start. This helps avoid unnecessary delays caused by requests for further information.
How do I get started?
Getting started is simple. The first step is to book a complimentary 20-minute discovery call with our lawyer, Jay Son. This is a no-obligation chat where we’ll listen to your story, assess your basic eligibility, and determine the best way we can support you. You can book your free call directly on our website via the link below. We look forward to speaking with you.