The Family Visa stream includes several categories, each tailored to different family relationships:

1. Partner Visas
For spouses, de facto partners, and fiancés of Australian citizens or eligible residents.
Subclass 820/801: Partner Visa (Temporary and Permanent) – for applicants in Australia
Subclass 309/100: Partner Visa (Provisional and Migrant) – for applicants outside Australia
Subclass 300: Prospective Marriage Visa – for fiancé(e)s intending to marry in Australia

Key Features:
Pathway to permanent residency
Access to work and study right
Eligibility for Medicare (upon temporary visa grant)

2. Parent Visas
For parents of settled Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Subclass 103: Parent Visa – permanent visa with long processing times
Subclass 143/173: Contributory Parent Visas – faster processing, but higher application fee
Subclass 804: Aged Parent Visa – for parents of pension age applying onshore
Subclass 884/864: Contributory Aged Parent Visas – for aged parents with faster processing

Key Features:
Permanent residency
Access to Medicare and social benefits (after waiting periods)
Opportunity to live with children and grandchildren

3. Child Visas
For dependent children of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Subclass 101/802: Child Visas – for children adopted or born outside Australia
Subclass 102: Adoption Visa – for children adopted overseas
Subclass 445: Dependent Child Visa – for children of temporary Partner visa holders

Key Features:
Right to live, study, and work in Australia
Access to healthcare and education

4. Other Family Visas
Includes visas for other close relatives who rely on their family in Australia.
Subclass 114/838: Aged Dependent Relative Visa
Subclass 115/835: Remaining Relative Visa
Subclass 116/836: Carer Visa – for those providing long-term care to a relative with medical needs

Key Features:
Permanent residency
Suitable for relatives with limited support outside Australia