1. Who can sponsor a visitor visa applicant under the Sponsored Family stream?
1. An Australian citizen or permanent resident who is willing to sponsor a visitor visa applicant can do so under the Sponsored Family stream. The sponsor must meet certain criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs, including being over 18 years of age, being settled in Australia, and being a close family member of the visitor they are sponsoring (such as a parent, child, sibling, or spouse). The sponsor also needs to demonstrate that they have a genuine intention to support the visitor during their stay in Australia, including providing financial assistance if needed. Additionally, the sponsor must agree to abide by certain obligations, such as ensuring the visitor complies with visa conditions and leaves Australia before their visa expires.
2. What are the eligibility criteria for sponsorship under the Sponsored Family stream?
To be eligible for sponsorship under the Sponsored Family stream of Form 157N, certain criteria must be met:
1. The sponsor must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen residing in Australia.
2. The sponsor must be at least 18 years of age.
3. The sponsor must have a genuine intention to provide support to the visitor during their stay in Australia.
4. The sponsor must not have sponsored more than one person within the last 5 years, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
5. The sponsor must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian Government or have been declared bankrupt.
6. The sponsor must agree to provide financial support and accommodation for the visitor during their stay in Australia, if required.
Meeting these eligibility criteria is essential for a successful sponsorship application under the Sponsored Family stream of Form 157N. It is important to carefully review and ensure compliance with all requirements to avoid any complications during the visa application process.
3. How does the sponsor provide evidence of their relationship to the visitor visa applicant?
When sponsoring a visitor visa applicant under the Family stream, the sponsor must provide evidence of their relationship with the applicant to support the application. This can be done in several ways, including:
1. Providing documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or any official documentation that proves the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.
2. Writing a sponsorship letter outlining the nature of the relationship, the purpose of the visit, and how the sponsor will support the visitor during their stay in the host country.
3. Submitting photographs or other visual evidence that shows the sponsor and the applicant together, highlighting the closeness of their relationship.
Overall, the more comprehensive and varied the evidence of the relationship provided by the sponsor, the stronger the application is likely to be. The aim is to clearly demonstrate to the immigration authorities the genuine and close connection between the sponsor and the visitor visa applicant.
4. What documents are required to be submitted with Form 157N for a Sponsored Family stream application?
When submitting a Form 157N for a Sponsored Family stream application, several documents must be included to support the application. These documents are crucial in demonstrating the genuine nature of the visitor’s intention and the sponsor’s ability to support them during their stay in Australia. Some of the key documents that need to be submitted include:
1. Identity documents: These may include a certified copy of the visitor’s passport’s bio-data page, birth certificate, and any other relevant identification documents.
2. Letter of invitation: A signed letter from the sponsor, inviting the visitor to Australia and outlining the purpose of their visit, the dates of the stay, and the sponsor’s relationship to the visitor.
3. Financial documents: Evidence of the sponsor’s financial capacity to support the visitor during their stay, such as bank statements, pay slips, or tax returns.
4. Relationship documents: Proof of the relationship between the sponsor and the visitor, which could include marriage certificates, birth certificates showing parent-child relationships, or other relevant documents.
5. Accommodation details: Information on where the visitor will be staying during their visit, such as a hotel reservation or a letter from the sponsor confirming accommodation arrangements.
6. Travel itinerary: A copy of the visitor’s planned travel itinerary, including details of flights, accommodation, and activities planned during the visit.
By including these documents with Form 157N, the applicant can strengthen their application and increase the chances of a successful visa outcome.
5. Can a sponsor withdraw their sponsorship of a visitor visa applicant?
Yes, a sponsor can withdraw their sponsorship of a visitor visa applicant under certain circumstances. The visa sponsorship can be withdrawn before a decision is made on the visa application. If the sponsor decides to withdraw their sponsorship, they must notify the Department of Home Affairs in writing of their decision to withdraw. It is important to note that once a visa application has been lodged, the sponsorship cannot be withdrawn if the visa application is already being processed by the Department of Home Affairs. In such cases, the sponsor may need to contact the Department to discuss the situation further and understand the implications of withdrawing sponsorship at that stage.
6. What are the financial requirements for sponsors under the Sponsored Family stream?
There are specific financial requirements for sponsors under the Sponsored Family stream of Form 157N – Application for a Visitor Visa. Sponsors are required to demonstrate that they have the financial capacity to support their sponsored family member during their stay in Australia and cover any potential healthcare or welfare costs. To meet these requirements, sponsors are typically asked to provide evidence of stable employment, a regular source of income, and savings or assets that show they can provide for their sponsored family member without relying on government assistance. Additionally, sponsors may need to show that they have sufficient funds to cover any unexpected expenses or emergencies that may arise during their family member’s visit.
1. Sponsors may be required to provide copies of recent bank statements to show their financial stability and capacity to support their family member.
2. Proof of employment in the form of payslips, employment contracts, or letters from employers may also be requested to demonstrate a stable income.
3. In some cases, sponsors may need to provide a letter of undertaking or financial guarantee, stating their commitment to providing financial support for their family member during their stay in Australia.
7. How long does the sponsorship approval process take under the Sponsored Family stream?
The sponsorship approval process under the Sponsored Family stream for Form 157N typically takes around four to six weeks on average (1.). However, this timeframe can vary depending on various factors such as the volume of applications being processed at the time, the completeness of the submitted documents, and any additional checks or verifications that may be required by the immigration authorities. It is recommended to submit the sponsorship application well in advance of the visitor visa application to allow for sufficient processing time and to avoid any delays in the overall visa processing timeline. It is also advisable to check the specific processing times provided by the immigration authorities at the time of application for the most up-to-date information.
8. Can a sponsor apply for more than one visitor visa applicant under the Sponsored Family stream?
Yes, a sponsor can apply for more than one visitor visa applicant under the Sponsored Family stream. However, each applicant must have a separate Form 157N application submitted on their behalf. The sponsor’s eligibility and capacity to support each applicant will be assessed separately for each application. It is important for the sponsor to ensure that they meet all requirements and obligations for each sponsored visitor, including providing necessary support during the visitor’s stay in Australia. Additionally, each applicant must meet the eligibility criteria for the visitor visa under the Sponsored Family stream independently.
9. What are the responsibilities of a sponsor towards the visitor visa applicant?
The responsibilities of a sponsor towards the visitor visa applicant include the following:
1. Financial Support: The sponsor is expected to provide financial support to cover the visitor’s expenses during their stay in the country, including accommodation, food, and other necessary costs.
2. Accommodation: The sponsor must ensure that suitable accommodation is arranged for the visitor for the duration of their stay.
3. Invitation Letter: The sponsor should provide a formal invitation letter to support the visitor’s visa application, outlining the purpose of the visit, the duration of stay, and the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.
4. Compliance with Visa Conditions: The sponsor is responsible for ensuring that the visitor complies with the conditions of their visa, including departing the country before the visa expires.
5. Medical Insurance: It is advisable for the sponsor to arrange medical insurance for the visitor to cover any healthcare costs during their stay.
6. Communication: The sponsor should be available to assist the visitor during their stay, provide guidance on local customs, and address any issues that may arise.
7. Reporting Changes: If there are any changes in the sponsor’s circumstances, such as a change in address or contact information, they should be reported to the relevant authorities.
8. Guarantee of Return: The sponsor may also be required to provide a guarantee that the visitor will return to their home country after the visit.
9. Support and Assistance: Ultimately, the sponsor should offer support and assistance to the visitor to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in the country.
10. Can a sponsor appeal if their sponsorship application is rejected?
Yes, a sponsor has the right to appeal if their sponsorship application for a Visitor Visa under the Sponsored Family stream is rejected. The sponsor can request a review of the decision by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) within a specific timeframe which is usually 21 or 28 days, depending on the circumstances. The AAT will independently review the decision made by the Department of Home Affairs and can either uphold the decision, remit it back for reconsideration, or substitute the decision with a new one. It is important for the sponsor to provide any additional information or evidence that may support their case during the appeal process.
11. What are the processing fees for a Sponsored Family stream visa application?
The processing fees for a Sponsored Family stream visa application (Form 157N) can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the application. As of September 2021, the base application charge for a Sponsored Family stream visa is AUD 145. There may be additional charges for each family member included in the application. It is important to check the most up-to-date fee information on the official website of the Department of Home Affairs or consult with a migration agent to ensure the correct fees are paid for the visa application.
12. Are there any restrictions on the visitor visa applicant under the Sponsored Family stream?
Yes, there are certain restrictions that may apply to visitor visa applicants under the Sponsored Family stream. It’s important for the applicant to be aware of these restrictions to avoid any complications with their visa application:
1. The applicant must meet the eligibility criteria set out by the Department of Home Affairs for the Sponsored Family stream.
2. The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
3. The sponsor must provide a written statement of support, outlining their relationship to the applicant and their intention to support them during their visit.
4. The sponsor must meet certain financial requirements to demonstrate their ability to support the applicant during their stay in Australia.
5. The applicant must genuinely intend to visit Australia for the purpose of spending time with their sponsoring family member and not for any other reason, such as work or study.
6. The applicant must meet health and character requirements as part of their visa application process.
It’s important for both the applicant and the sponsor to carefully review and understand these restrictions before applying for a visitor visa under the Sponsored Family stream to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
13. How can a sponsor demonstrate their commitment to supporting the visitor visa applicant during their stay?
A sponsor can demonstrate their commitment to supporting the visitor visa applicant during their stay in several ways. Firstly, they can provide a signed letter of invitation stating their relationship to the applicant, the purpose of the visit, and details of the support they will provide during the visit.. Secondly, they can provide evidence of their financial capacity to support the visitor, such as bank statements, pay slips, or employment letters.. Additionally, the sponsor can offer accommodation options for the visitor during their stay, either by including them in their own housing arrangements or by providing details of alternative accommodation.. Lastly, the sponsor can show their commitment by offering to cover any additional expenses the visitor may incur during their stay, such as medical insurance or travel costs within the country. By providing these forms of support and evidence, the sponsor can effectively demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the well-being and comfort of the visitor visa applicant throughout their stay.
14. What are the consequences of providing false or misleading information in a Sponsored Family stream application?
Providing false or misleading information in a Sponsored Family stream application, such as Form 157N for a Visitor Visa, can have serious consequences.
1. Legal repercussions: Submitting false information on an application is considered fraud and is illegal. This can result in legal action being taken against the applicant.
2. Visa refusal: If it is discovered that false information was provided, the visa application is likely to be refused.
3. Ban from reapplying: Individuals who are found to have provided false information may be banned from reapplying for a visa for a specified period of time, or even permanently.
4. Reputation damage: Providing false information can also damage the applicant’s reputation and credibility with immigration authorities, which may impact any future visa applications.
5. Sponsor repercussions: Additionally, the sponsor of the visa application may also face consequences if they are found to be complicit in providing false information.
It is crucial to be honest and provide accurate information when completing a visa application to avoid these severe consequences.
15. Can a sponsor be held financially responsible for the visitor visa applicant?
Yes, a sponsor in the context of a Visitor Visa application under the Sponsored Family stream can be held financially responsible for the visitor visa applicant to some extent. The financial responsibility of the sponsor is mainly limited to providing support for the visitor’s stay in Australia, including accommodation, daily living expenses, and health insurance while the visitor is in the country. This responsibility is undertaken when the sponsor completes Form 157N, agreeing to meet these requirements. It’s important for sponsors to understand the obligations they are undertaking and ensure they are capable of fulfilling them before agreeing to sponsor a visitor. Failure to provide the necessary support can result in negative consequences for both the sponsor and the visa applicant.
16. What happens if the visitor visa applicant decides to overstay their visa?
If the visitor visa applicant decides to overstay their visa, they will be in violation of the immigration laws of the country they are visiting. Overstaying a visa can have serious consequences, including:
1. Immigration consequences: Overstaying a visa can result in the individual being considered an illegal resident in the country. This can lead to the individual being subjected to deportation or removal proceedings.
2. Inadmissibility: Overstaying a visa can make it difficult for the individual to obtain future visas or entry into the country. They may be deemed inadmissible and barred from re-entering for a specified period of time.
3. Consequences for the sponsor: If the visitor visa applicant was sponsored by a family member, the sponsor may also face consequences for their role in the individual overstaying their visa. This could impact their ability to sponsor future applicants or face legal penalties.
4. Legal implications: Overstaying a visa is a serious offense and can result in fines, imprisonment, or other legal repercussions.
It is essential for visitor visa applicants to adhere to the terms of their visa and depart the country before it expires to avoid these consequences and maintain their legal status.
17. Are there any health or character requirements for sponsors under the Sponsored Family stream?
Yes, there are health and character requirements for sponsors under the Sponsored Family stream of the Form 157N – Application for a Visitor Visa. Sponsors are required to meet certain conditions to be eligible to sponsor a visitor under this stream.
1. Health requirements: Sponsors must be in good health and should not have any contagious diseases that could pose a risk to the visitor they are sponsoring. They may be asked to provide medical documentation to prove their health status.
2. Character requirements: Sponsors must have a clean criminal record and must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian government. They must also not have been convicted of certain crimes, such as offences involving violence or sexual misconduct.
It is crucial for sponsors to ensure they meet these health and character requirements to successfully sponsor a family member under the Sponsored Family stream of the visitor visa application. Failure to meet these requirements could lead to the visa application being refused.
18. How does the sponsor prove their Australian citizenship or residency status?
1. In order to prove their Australian citizenship or residency status when sponsoring a visitor visa applicant under the Family stream, the sponsor needs to provide documentary evidence of their citizenship or residency. This can be done by submitting a certified copy of their Australian passport, citizenship certificate, or permanent residency visa.
2. If the sponsor is an Australian citizen by descent or adoption, they may need to submit additional documents to prove their citizenship status, such as their birth certificate or adoption papers.
3. It is important for sponsors to ensure that the documents they provide are current and valid, as outdated or incorrect documentation may lead to delays or even rejection of the visa application.
4. Sponsors should also be prepared to provide any additional information or supporting documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs during the visa processing period. By accurately proving their Australian citizenship or residency status, sponsors can help facilitate the visa application process for their sponsored family member.
19. Can a sponsor be requested to attend an interview as part of the sponsorship assessment process?
Yes, a sponsor may be requested to attend an interview as part of the sponsorship assessment process for a Form 157N – Application for a Visitor Visa under the Sponsored Family stream. The Department of Home Affairs may require sponsors to attend an interview to verify their relationship with the visa applicant and assess their ability to provide adequate support during the visitor’s stay in Australia. The interview allows the authorities to ask specific questions to determine the genuineness of the sponsorship and ensure that the sponsor meets the necessary criteria to support the visitor. It is important for sponsors to cooperate with such requests and provide truthful and accurate information during the interview process to facilitate the visa application for the sponsored individual.
20. What are the conditions attached to a visitor visa granted under the Sponsored Family stream?
When a visitor visa is granted under the Sponsored Family stream, there are several conditions attached to it that the visa holder must adhere to. These conditions typically include:
1. The visa holder must only stay in Australia temporarily and for the purpose specified in their visa application.
2. They must not engage in any studies or training in Australia for more than three months.
3. The visa holder must obey all Australian laws and regulations while in the country.
4. They must not work in Australia, except in limited circumstances permitted by their visa conditions.
5. The visa holder must have adequate health insurance during their stay in Australia.
6. They must not stay in Australia for longer than the period permitted by their visa grant.
These conditions are in place to ensure that the visitor visa holder complies with the terms of their visa and does not overstay or engage in activities that are not permitted under the Sponsored Family stream visa. Violating these conditions can lead to visa cancellation and potential consequences for future visa applications.