How do I invite a family member to visit Australia?

How Do I Invite a Family Member to Visit Australia? (Visitor Visa Subclass 600 Complete Guide)

Inviting a family member to visit Australia is a meaningful moment—whether it’s your parents coming to see you, siblings visiting for a family function, or relatives joining you for a holiday. However, Australia has strict visa rules, and many visitor visa applications are refused due to incomplete documentation or unclear intent.

If you are wondering how to invite a family member to visit Australia, this detailed guide explains everything you need to know—from writing a strong invitation letter to understanding visa requirements, financial proof, and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer: How Do I Invite a Family Member to Visit Australia?

To invite a family member to visit Australia, you must write a formal invitation letter supporting their Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application. The letter should explain your relationship, the purpose and duration of the visit, accommodation details, and financial support (if any). You must also provide proof of your Australian residency, identity, and financial capacity.

What Does It Mean to Invite a Family Member to Australia?

Inviting a family member does not mean issuing a visa or guaranteeing approval. An invitation letter is a supporting document submitted with the visitor’s visa application to show that the visit is genuine and well-planned.

The Australian Department of Home Affairs assesses each application independently. Your role as the inviter is to confirm:

• The purpose of the visit
• Where the visitor will stay
• How expenses will be managed
• That the visitor intends to return to their home country

A clear and honest invitation letter can significantly strengthen the visa application.

Which Visa Is Required for a Family Visit to Australia?

Most family visits are done under the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Family Visit

This visa allows people to visit Australia for:

• Family visits
• Tourism
• Short-term non-work purposes

Key details:

• Stay period: Up to 3, 6, or 12 months (as granted)
• Application: Online
• Location: Applicant must apply from outside Australia

There are two common streams:

• Tourist Stream – Most common for family visits
• Sponsored Family Stream – Requires sponsorship and sometimes a security bond

Who Can Invite a Family Member to Australia?

You can invite a family member if you are:

• An Australian citizen
• A Permanent Resident (PR)
• An eligible temporary visa holder (student, work visa, etc.)

You may invite:

• Parents
• Spouse
• Children
• Siblings
• Close relatives

The stronger your legal status and documentation, the more credibility your invitation carries.

How to Write an Invitation Letter for Australia Visitor Visa (Step-by-Step)

A well-written invitation letter is one of the most important parts of a family visitor visa application.

1. Details of the Inviter (You)

Include:

• Full name
• Residential address in Australia
• Phone number and email
• Immigration status (Citizen, PR, visa holder)
• Relationship to the visitor

This establishes who you are and your eligibility to invite someone.

2. Details of the Visitor

Mention:

• Full name (as per passport)
• Date of birth
• Passport number
• Country of residence
• Relationship to you

Accuracy here is essential—any mismatch can raise concerns.

3. Purpose and Duration of the Visit

Clearly explain:

• Reason for the visit (family time, vacation, event, medical support, etc.)
• Proposed duration (exact dates or weeks/months)

Avoid vague timelines. Immigration officers prefer specific and realistic plans.

4. Accommodation and Financial Support

State:

• Where the visitor will stay (with you or hotel)
• Who will cover expenses such as accommodation, food, and travel

If you are sponsoring the visit, mention your financial capacity honestly.

5. Assurance of Return to Home Country

This is crucial. You should clearly state that:

• The visit is temporary
• The visitor has strong ties to their home country
• They will leave Australia before the visa expires

Mention their job, family responsibilities, property, or studies if applicable.

Documents Required From the Inviter (Australia-Based Family Member)

Attach the following with the invitation letter:

• Copy of Australian passport or visa grant letter
• Proof of residency (utility bill, rental agreement)
• Proof of relationship (birth certificate, family record)
• Recent bank statements or payslips
• Employer letter (if employed)

These documents prove your identity, stability, and ability to support the visitor.

Documents Required From the Visiting Family Member

The applicant must submit:

• Visitor visa (Subclass 600) application online
• Valid passport
• Invitation letter
• Proof of funds (bank statements)
• Evidence of home-country ties
• Travel history (if available)

Strong documentation on both sides improves approval chances.

Financial Requirements: How Much Money Is Needed?

There is no fixed amount required to sponsor a visitor to Australia. Financial expectations depend on:

• Length of stay
• Accommodation arrangements
• Who is paying for expenses

If the inviter covers costs, their bank statements and income proof should show affordability. If the visitor is self-funded, they must demonstrate sufficient funds for their entire stay.

Sponsored Family Stream: Is It a Better Option?

The Sponsored Family Stream may be suitable when:

• The visitor has limited travel history
• Immigration wants additional assurance

Under this stream:

• The sponsor must be an Australian citizen or PR
• A security bond may be requested
• Processing can take longer

It offers stronger support but comes with additional obligations.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Refusal

Many family visitor visas are refused due to avoidable errors, such as:

• Weak or generic invitation letters
• Missing proof of relationship
• Insufficient financial evidence
• Unclear purpose of visit
• Lack of home-country ties

A refusal can affect future visa applications, so accuracy and honesty are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is an invitation letter mandatory for an Australia visitor visa?

No, an invitation letter is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for family visits. It strengthens the application by explaining the purpose of the visit and providing supporting evidence of accommodation and financial support.

How much money do I need to sponsor a visitor to Australia?

There is no official minimum amount. Immigration officers assess whether the sponsor or visitor has sufficient funds to cover travel, living expenses, and return costs based on the length of stay.

Can I invite my parents to Australia on a visitor visa?

Yes, parents can be invited on a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600). A detailed invitation letter, proof of relationship, and strong financial and home-country ties are essential for approval.

How long does a family visitor visa take to process?

Processing times vary depending on country, application quality, and visa stream. Some applications are processed within a few weeks, while others may take longer if additional checks are required.

Final Checklist Before Submitting the Application

Before submitting the visa application, ensure:

• Invitation letter is clear and complete
• All supporting documents are attached
• Financial proof is sufficient
• Intent to return home is clearly demonstrated

A well-prepared application reduces delays and increases approval chances.

Conclusion

Inviting a family member to visit Australia requires careful planning, proper documentation, and a strong invitation letter. While the invitation does not guarantee visa approval, it plays a critical role in demonstrating the genuineness of the visit.

By following this step-by-step guide and submitting accurate supporting documents, you can significantly improve your family member’s chances of receiving an Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) and enjoying a stress-free visit with you in Australia.