New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Temporary) visa (Subclass 461)
New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Temporary) visa
(Subclass 461)
The Subclass 461 visa allows non-New Zealand citizens to reside in Australia as eligible family members of a New Zealand citizen. It is intended for individuals whose New Zealand relative is either:
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Already in Australia holding a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444), or
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Eligible for the SCV and will be accompanying them to Australia.
This is a temporary visa that allows the holder to live, work, and study in Australia for up to five years. Applicants may apply for this visa from within or outside Australia at the time of lodgement.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this visa, you must generally meet the following requirements:
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You are not a New Zealand citizen.
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You are an eligible family member of a New Zealand citizen who either:
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Currently holds a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) and is living in Australia, or
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Is eligible for the SCV and will be travelling with you to Australia (i.e., will receive an SCV upon arrival).
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Eligible family members include:
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The partner (spouse or de facto) of the New Zealand citizen.
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The child, dependent child, or step-child of the New Zealand citizen or their partner.
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The dependent child of your child or your partner’s child/step-child.
Important Note:
The New Zealand citizen sponsoring your application must not be classified as an “eligible New Zealand citizen” (ENZC). This typically refers to those who were in Australia on or before 26 February 2001 or who meet the conditions for a protected SCV. The 461 visa is primarily intended for family members of non-protected SCV holders.
Visa Class
Benefits of the Subclass 461 Visa
Holders of the visa can enjoy significant advantages:
- Live, work, and study in Australia for the entire five-year duration of the visa.
- Travel to and from Australia multiple times within the five-year validity period from the date the visa is granted.
- Include eligible family members (such. as children) in their application at the time of lodgement.
Health & Character Requirements
All applicants, including any accompanying family members, must meet Australia’s health and character standards:
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Health:
You’ll need to undergo medical examinations within 12 months before lodging your visa application. -
Character:
You must submit police clearance certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years, after turning 16.
Health Insurance
It is strongly advised to secure and maintain adequate private health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
Unlike New Zealand citizens who are eligible for Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system), holders of the Subclass 461 visa are not usually covered unless their home country has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia.
Without suitable health insurance, you will be responsible for all medical expenses incurred during your stay. In some cases, holding valid health insurance may also be a mandatory condition of the visa.
Get a quote and purchase the best Health Cover plan for your visa with EDUAbroad Guru.
Need Professional Help?
Applying for the New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa can be complex. If you’re unsure where to start, our Registered Migration Agents are here to help. From gathering documents to presenting a strong case to the Department of Home Affairs, we guide you every step of the way.
Reach out today for expert, reliable support.
Disclaimer: This information is intended as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, please refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website. https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/new-zealand-citizen-family-relationship-temporary-461
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