New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461): All You Need to Know
What is the New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)?
The New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461) visa enables non-New Zealand citizen individuals who are part of a New Zealand citizen's family unit to live, work, and study in Australia for up to 5 years. This visa is for family members of New Zealand citizens who hold or are eligible for a Special Category visa (Subclass 444).
Who Can Sponsor a New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)?
Sponsors must be New Zealand citizens. This typically includes New Zealand citizens who were in Australia on or before 26 February 2001.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements of New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)?
To qualify for the New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (SC 461) visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
You are not an Australian citizen.
You are not a New Zealand citizen.
You have a relationship with a New Zealand citizen, such as being a spouse or child.
You meet health and character requirements.
You hold private health insurance.
Who is Eligible to Apply for a New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)?
Eligible family members for this visa include:
Partners (spouse or de facto)
Dependent children
In some cases, dependent relatives of New Zealand citizens living in Australia
Is the New Zealand Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461) Permanent?
The New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461) visa is only a temporary visa. It allows applicants to stay in Australia for up to five years and does not automatically lead to permanent residency (PR).
Can the New Zealand Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461) Be Extended?
You can request an extension of your Subclass 461 visa as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria. Applicants must ensure they comply with visa conditions to be eligible for an extension.
What are the Benefits of the New Zealand Family Relationship Visa (Subclass 461)?
The Subclass 461 visa provides several advantages, including:
The right to live, work, and study in Australia for 5 years.
Access to Australia’s healthcare system, provided you have private health insurance.
The ability to contribute to the Australian community and economy.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?
The New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (Subclass 461) serves as a valuable pathway for eligible family members of New Zealand citizens to reside in Australia. If you are considering applying for a Subclass 461 Visa for your family unit or seeking professional assistance, contact us to book a Migration Planning Session with one of our immigration lawyers. You can do so by calling +612 8310 5230 or emailing us to book a time at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.