Family Member Definition in Australian Immigration

In the context of Australian immigration, a family member refers to anyone who is related to the primary visa applicant. This includes spouses, partners, children, parents, and other dependent relatives who may be included in a family-based visa application.

At a Glance

Family Inclusion for Australian Visas –Eligible Family Members:

Eligible Family Members:

Partner/Spouse

Other dependents (aged 18 and above)

Children (under 18 years)

Visa Types That Allow Family Inclusion

Subclass 189, 190, 491, 820/801, 186, 187, 482, 494 and many other skill visas.

Documents Required:

Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, de facto evidence).

Proof of dependency (for children, dependent parents, or other family members).

Documents Required:

Successful inclusion of family members in your visa application, leading to a granted visa for the entire family.

Who Can Be Included in Your Visa Application?

Family inclusion allows your partner, children, and other dependents to be included in your visa application. The inclusion criteria depend on the type of visa you are applying for.

Partner/Spouse:

Proof: Marriage certificate, de facto relationship evidence, statutory declarations from friends and family.

Your spouse or de facto partner (if you have been in a committed relationship for 12+ months).

Children:

Children under the age of 18, or adult children who are financially dependent on you.

Proof: Birth certificates, adoption papers, dependence documentation.

Other Dependents:

Parents or other family members who are financially dependent on you.

Proof: Financial dependency documents (e.g., bank statements, evidence of living together).

📏 Step-by-Step: How to Include Family Members in Your Visa Application

Who Is Considered a Family Member?

Partner Visas:

Spouses and de facto partners.

Parent Visas:

Parents who are financially dependent or aged.

Child Visas:

Biological children, adopted children, or stepchildren.

Other Family-Based Visas:

Other relatives who are financially dependent on the applicant.

Risks / Exemptions / Errors

Incorrect Documentation

Failing to provide valid evidence of the family relationship or dependency can cause delays.

Age and Dependency

Family members must meet age and dependency criteria to be eligible for inclusion.

Failure to Meet Health or Character Requirements

All family members included in the visa application must meet health and character standards.

Key Terms Legal Definitions

Family Member:

A person who is related to the primary visa applicant, typically including spouses, children, and dependent relatives.

Dependent Child:

A child under 18 or a dependent child over 18 with special circumstances (e.g., incapacity).

Sponsorship:

The act of providing legal support for a family member’s visa application.

Partner Visa:

A visa allowing the partner of an Australian citizen or permanent resident to live in Australia.

Required Documents

Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate)

Evidence of dependency (e.g., financial support records)

Police clearance (for family members aged 16 and older)

Passport copies for all family members

Health examination (for family members over a certain age)

Partner Visa Explainer

Skilled Migration Explainer

Visa Conditions Glossary

❓FAQ's

Q1: What is a family member in immigration?

A: A family member includes a spouse, partner, child, or dependent relative.

Q2: Can I include my children in my partner visa application?

A: Yes, as long as they meet the dependency criteria.

Q3: Do I need to prove financial dependency for my family members?

A: Yes, if your family members are over a certain age and are considered dependent.

Ready to Include Your Family in Your Visa Application?

Our migration experts can guide you through the process and ensure that your family members are included correctly in your application.

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.