Visa Overview
The New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Subclass 461) visa is a temporary visa allowing non-New Zealand citizens to live, work, and study in Australia. It is specifically designed for individuals who are members of the family unit of a New Zealand citizen who holds a Special Category (Subclass 444) visa.
This visa is valid for a period of five years and can be renewed, provided the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria. It offers a vital pathway for families to remain together while residing in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Subclass 461 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Non-Citizen Status: You must not be an Australian or New Zealand citizen.
- Family Relationship: You must be a member of the family unit of a New Zealand citizen. This includes being a partner, dependent child, or the dependent child of a partner.
- Sponsor Requirements: Your New Zealand citizen family member must hold, or be eligible for, a Special Category (Subclass 444) visa.
- Health and Character: All applicants must meet the Australian government's strict health and character requirements.
- Health Insurance: You must maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay in Australia.
Application Fees (2026)
The following Base Application Charges are effective for the 2025–2026 financial year. Fees are subject to annual adjustments by the Department of Home Affairs.
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Main Applicant | $445 |
| Additional Applicant (18 and over) | $225 |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | $110 |
Note: Total costs may increase if health examinations, police certificates, or biometrics are required.
Processing Times
Processing times are updated regularly based on the volume of applications and Departmental priorities. As of April 2026, the benchmark processing times for the Subclass 461 visa are:
- 50% of applications: Processed within 14 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 24 months.
Application processing may be delayed if the application is incomplete, lacks sufficient evidence of the family relationship, or if the Department requires additional information regarding health or character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a Subclass 461 visa? Yes. This visa provides full work and study rights in Australia for the duration of its validity.
What happens if my relationship with the New Zealand citizen ends? If your relationship ends, you may still be eligible to renew your Subclass 461 visa or apply for a further one, provided you meet specific requirements, such as having lived in Australia for at least two years while holding the visa.
Can I travel outside Australia? Yes. The Subclass 461 visa allows for multiple entries. You can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you like while the visa is valid.
Do I need a new mobile number for the application? While you must provide a current mobile number and contact details for the Department to reach you, you do not need a new number specifically for the application process. Ensure your contact information remains updated via ImmiAccount.
