The Subclass 461 visa is a temporary visa for non-New Zealand family members of New Zealand citizens who want to live and work in Australia. This visa is a great option for those in de facto or married relationships with a New Zealand citizen or their eligible family members. Here’s a breakdown of the key details and benefits of the Subclass 461 visa:
Key features of the subclass 461 visa:
New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship: This visa is designed for individuals who are family members of New Zealand citizens. Whether you are a partner, spouse, or eligible child of a New Zealand citizen, you can apply for this visa.
De Facto Relationships: If you are in a de facto relationship, you do not need to have been in the relationship for 12 months to be eligible. This is a significant advantage for newer relationships, making the application process more flexible for couples who haven’t yet reached the 12-month mark.
Temporary Visa - 5 Years: The Subclass 461 visa allows you to live and work in Australia for up to five years. While it’s a temporary visa, you can renew it and continue staying in Australia as long as you meet the requirements.
Affordable: One of the appealing aspects of the Subclass 461 visa is that it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other visa options. This makes it an attractive choice for families seeking a cost-effective solution to living in Australia.
Apply Outside of Australia: You can submit your application for this visa whether you are inside or outside of Australia. This flexibility makes it convenient for applicants who may not currently be residing in Australia.
NZ Citizen Living Outside Australia: Even if your New Zealand citizen family member is living outside of Australia at the time of your application, you are still eligible to apply. This provides more flexibility, especially for families who are considering relocating to Australia together.
No Sponsorship Required: Unlike many other visa types, the Subclass 461 visa does not require formal sponsorship.
Additional Considerations:
Applying After a Relationship Breakdown: If your relationship with the New Zealand citizen has ended, you may still be eligible to apply for a new Subclass 461 visa. However, if you are in a new relationship you will generally not be eligible.
Restrictions on Applying: While you can apply for this visa from within Australia, there are certain visa types that prevent you from holding a Subclass 461 visa. It’s important to check if your current visa status allows you to apply.
Dual Citizenship Limitation: If you hold dual citizenship, you cannot apply for the Subclass 461 visa. This visa is strictly for individuals who do not have New Zealand citizenship.
Conclusion:
The Subclass 461 visa is a valuable option for non-New Zealand family members who want to live and work in Australia alongside their New Zealand citizen relatives. It’s affordable, flexible, and comes with a five-year validity period, making it an ideal choice for families. If you are in a relationship with a New Zealand citizen, it’s worth exploring this visa option to enjoy life in Australia without breaking the bank. Be sure to understand all the eligibility requirements and application steps to maximize your chances of success. Book here for a FREE initial consultation.
Comments