How much does it cost to bring a family member to Australia?

The True Cost of Sponsoring a Family Member to Australia: More Than Just Visa Fees

Bringing a family member to Australia is a deeply personal and often emotionally charged process. However, it’s crucial to understand that the emotional investment is accompanied by a significant financial one. While the allure of reuniting with loved ones is strong, prospective sponsors must realistically assess the substantial costs involved before embarking on the journey. This isn’t just about the visa application fees; it’s about a multifaceted financial commitment that can easily exceed expectations.

The Australian government levies various fees throughout the family sponsorship process. The most immediate cost is the visa application fee itself. This currently stands at $4,895 AUD for the primary applicant. This is not a one-size-fits-all price; each additional family member – spouse, partner, or child – will incur their own separate application fee, adding considerably to the overall expense. These fees are subject to change, so it’s vital to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information before proceeding.

However, the application fees represent only a fraction of the total cost. The significantly larger expense lies in the contributory payment. Once health and character checks are successfully completed for each applicant, a substantial contribution of $43,600 AUD per person is required. This payment is non-refundable, even if the visa application is ultimately unsuccessful. This means that sponsoring multiple family members could quickly lead to costs exceeding $100,000 AUD or more.

Beyond the official government fees, prospective sponsors should also factor in several other potential expenses:

• Health Examinations: Medical examinations are mandatory for all applicants. The cost of these examinations varies depending on the individual’s health and the required tests. Expect to budget several hundred dollars per person.
• Character Checks: Police clearance certificates are needed from each applicant’s country of residence, adding to the overall cost.
• Travel Expenses: The cost of flights and other travel arrangements for the sponsored family member(s) must be considered. This can be substantial, depending on the origin country and the number of individuals travelling.
• Settlement Costs: Once in Australia, the sponsored family members will need to cover the costs of accommodation, daily living expenses, and potentially English language classes until they are able to secure employment. This initial settlement period can be financially challenging.
• Legal Advice: Navigating the complex visa application process can be daunting. Many prospective sponsors choose to seek professional legal advice, adding further to the overall expense.

In conclusion, sponsoring a family member to Australia is a significant undertaking that demands careful financial planning. The total cost extends far beyond the initial visa application fees and can easily reach six figures. Prospective sponsors should thoroughly research the current fees, account for all associated costs, and ensure they have the financial resources available to support their family members throughout the entire process, from application to successful settlement in Australia. Failing to adequately prepare financially could lead to significant stress and hardship for both the sponsor and the sponsored family members.