From June 2014, a number of affordable family and carer visa options were closed to new applications. The remaining visa options came at a steep price, which was unaffordable for the average applicant and their families. The consequences of these changes were disastrous, leaving family reunion an exclusive domain for the wealthy.
From 25 September 2014, the four ‘non-contributory’ visas have been re-opened:
1. Age Dependent Relative Visa
2. Remaining Relative Visa
3. Carer Visa
4. Aged Parent Visa.
This is great news for families looking to stay together and is an attractive prospect for candidates looking to permanently settle in Australia.
The last few years has seen the Australian Government steadily prioritise skilled migration, with proportionally fewer family places available within permanent migration program.
Whilst the current Government has continued to affirm that the focus of the immigration program is primarily based on economic needs rather than social, these changes are welcomed.
At Queensland Migration Practice, we advocate that family reunion lies at the very heart of Australia’s Migration Program and should remain a key element in years to come.
Who might benefit from these changes? If you are an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia and are looking to sponsor your Parents to live in Australia. Alternatively, if you are in Australia and suffer from a long-term or permanent medical condition and require care and assistance from a relative who is overseas.
