FAMILY VISA OPTIONS FOR NEW ZEALAND CITIZENS

If you’re a New Zealand citizen living in Australia and want to bring your parents, children, or other family members, there are several visa options available under Australia’s family migration program.

Common Family Visas Include:

• Parent Visas (subclass 103 or 143) – For parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents. These visas often have long wait times, but the Contributory Parent Visa (143) is faster (though more expensive).
• Child Visas (subclass 101 or 802) – For dependent children of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible NZ citizens.
• Remaining Relative Visas (subclass 115 or 835) – For those whose only close family lives in Australia.
• Carer Visas (subclass 116 or 836) – For relatives who need to move to Australia to care for a family member with a long-term medical condition.

Eligibility Basics:

• The sponsoring New Zealander must be living in Australia, often as a protected SCV holder or a citizen/permanent resident.
• You may need to show financial support, meet health and character requirements, and pass the balance of family test (for parent visas).

How to Start:

• Choose the visa that fits your family’s situation.
• Check processing times – some take many years.
• Gather documentation – proof of relationship, ID, and financial info.
• Apply online or via paper application depending on the subclass.