Subclass 461 — New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa

Eligibility snapshot

In general terms, the subclass 461 (New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship) visa is a temporary visa for a person who is NOT a New Zealand citizen but who is a family member of someone holding a subclass 444 (Special Category) visa. The qualifying link is the relationship to that New Zealand citizen family member, so applicants are typically partners, dependent children, or other eligible family members of a subclass 444 holder. Broadly, the assessment usually looks at: a genuine and continuing qualifying family relationship; satisfying the relevant health requirement; satisfying the character requirement; and not having debts to the Australian Government (or arrangements being in place for them). Holders are generally able to live, work and study in Australia for the period the visa is granted, which is typically a multi-year stay rather than permanent residence. The exact criteria, who counts as an eligible family member, the visa period, and any conditions are matters that change over time and depend on individual circumstances. Check the official visa page for the current requirements, and a registered migration practitioner can advise on how the rules apply to a specific situation. General information only — not immigration assistance or legal advice. This is an independent service and is not affiliated with the Department of Home Affairs or the Australian Government.

Costs and the visa application charge

The subclass 461 visa has its own government Visa Application Charge (VAC). A specific dollar amount is not stated here because the charge is set by the Australian Government, is published on the official visa page, and changes over time. In general terms, you should check the official page and the Department's visa pricing estimator for the current base charge before lodging. Beyond the base charge, additional amounts can typically apply where family members are included in the same application (an additional-applicant charge), and there are often ancillary costs that are not paid to the Department — for example fees for police certificates from each relevant country, medical examinations with an approved panel clinic, certified translations of documents not in English, and obtaining or renewing a passport. The government VAC and any ancillary government-related costs are separate from, and independent of, any platform fees or fees a registered practitioner may charge for assisting with a matter. Government charges are always distinct from practitioner or platform fees. A registered practitioner can give a cost estimate for a specific situation; for the authoritative current charge, rely on the official estimator. General information only — not immigration assistance or legal advice.

Frequently asked questions