Getting a Tourist Visa for an Immigrant in Australia with Sponsorship – Move to Australia

An Overview of the Sponsored Tourist Visa

A sponsored tourist visa falls under the subclass 600 Visitor Visa category, specifically the “Sponsored Family Stream.” This visa allows individuals to visit Australia for tourism or to visit family members. Sponsorship implies that an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen will financially and legally support the visitor during their stay.

Eligibility Criteria

For the Applicant

1. Genuine Intentions
   Applicants must demonstrate that their visit is purely for tourism, leisure, or visiting family and that they intend to leave Australia before their visa expires.
2. Financial Stability
   Evidence of sufficient funds to support the visit must be provided unless the sponsor covers all expenses.
3. Health and Character Requirements
   Applicants need to meet health and character standards, including providing police clearance certificates if required.

For the Sponsor

1. Residency and Citizenship
   To act as a sponsor, one must be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or an eligible citizen of New Zealand.
2. Financial Capacity
   Sponsors must prove they have adequate financial resources to support the applicant during their stay.
3. Sponsorship Obligations
   The sponsor may need to provide a financial bond to the Australian Government, which is refundable upon the applicant’s departure from Australia.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Determine the Type of Visa

The first step is to confirm that the sponsored tourist visa (Visitor Visa Subclass 600 – Sponsored Family Stream) is suitable for the purpose of the visit. This visa is ideal for family visits but cannot be used for business purposes.

2. Gather Required Documents

Both the applicant and sponsor must prepare a set of documents to prove their eligibility. Key documents include:

• For the Applicant:
  • A valid passport.
  • Recent passport-sized photographs.
  • Evidence of ties to the home country (e.g., employment, property ownership).
  • Financial documents such as bank statements.
  • Travel itinerary, including accommodation details.
  • Proof of relationship with the sponsor.
• For the Sponsor:
  • Proof of Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or New Zealand citizenship.
  • Financial documents (e.g., pay slips, bank statements).
  • Evidence of the relationship with the applicant (e.g., birth certificates, family photos).

3. Create an ImmiAccount

The Australian Department of Home Affairs manages visa applications through its online platform, ImmiAccount. Both the applicant and sponsor can create an account to complete and track the visa application process.

4. Lodge the Sponsorship Application

The sponsor must submit a formal sponsorship application. This process involves:

• Filling out the sponsorship form.
• Providing evidence of their financial capacity.
• Attaching documents to demonstrate their relationship with the applicant.
• Paying the sponsorship application fee, if applicable.

5. Complete the Visa Application

Once the sponsorship is lodged, the applicant can proceed with their visa application:

• Log in to ImmiAccount and complete the online form.
• Attach all required documents.
• Pay the visa application fee (fees may vary based on processing times and specific circumstances).
• Submit the application.

6. Attend Health Examinations (if Required)

Depending on the applicant’s home country and length of stay, a health examination may be required. This typically includes chest X-rays and medical tests conducted by panel physicians approved by the Australian Government.

7. Provide Biometrics

In some cases, applicants may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) at a visa application center in their home country.

8. Wait for Visa Decision

Processing times for the sponsored tourist visa can vary depending on factors such as the completeness of the application, the applicant’s circumstances, and the volume of applications at the time. Typically, it takes several weeks.

9. Receive Visa Outcome

If approved, the applicant will receive a visa grant notice with details such as the visa number, conditions, and validity. If refused, the applicant will be notified of the reasons and whether they can appeal the decision.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Proving Genuine Intentions

A common reason for visa refusal is the inability to convince immigration authorities of genuine visit intentions. To address this:

• Provide strong evidence of ties to the home country, such as employment, property, or family commitments.
• Include a detailed travel itinerary and return flight bookings.

Insufficient Financial Evidence

Applicants and sponsors must clearly demonstrate financial capability. Ensure all bank statements, pay slips, and other financial documents are recent and verifiable.

Incomplete Documentation

Missing or inaccurate documents can delay processing or result in refusal. Double-check all requirements and seek professional advice if needed.

Cost and Financial Bond

Visa application fees vary, with the Sponsored Family Stream incurring additional costs for the financial bond. The bond amount is determined by the Department of Home Affairs and can range from AUD 5,000 to AUD 15,000 or more, depending on the applicant’s risk profile. The bond is refunded after the applicant leaves Australia within the visa’s validity period.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Start Early
   Begin the application process well in advance of your intended travel date to allow time for processing and unforeseen delays.
2. Be Transparent
   Provide accurate information and disclose all relevant details in the application.
3. Seek Assistance
   If unsure about any step, consult a registered migration agent or legal expert specializing in Australian visas.
4. Prepare for Interviews
   Be ready to answer questions or provide additional evidence if the Department of Home Affairs requests it.
5. Monitor Application Status
   Regularly check ImmiAccount for updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

Post-Visa Approval

After receiving the visa, applicants must comply with all conditions outlined in the grant notice, such as:

• Staying within the permitted duration.
• Not working or studying unless explicitly allowed.
• Leaving Australia before the visa expires.

Failure to comply can result in penalties or impact future visa applications.

READ – Apply and Get a Job in Australia as a Foreigner

Securing a tourist visa for Australia with sponsorship can be a straightforward process if approached with careful preparation and attention to detail. By meeting all eligibility criteria, submitting complete and accurate documentation, and adhering to visa conditions, applicants can significantly improve their chances of approval.