Subclass 461 New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa
Non-NZ family members of a New Zealand citizen living in Australia, to live, work and study here.
The New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461) is an Australian family & partner visa. This guide covers who the 461 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (≈ $475) and processing time (≈ 2–4 months), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 461 visa is for
Non-NZ family members of a New Zealand citizen living in Australia, to live, work and study here.
No (temporary) — renewable; PR via skilled, partner or the NZ stream where eligible.
Subclass 461 eligibility criteria
- A family member of a New Zealand citizen who holds (or is eligible for) a Special Category visa (444)
- A genuine family relationship
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 461 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461) is ≈ $475, with an indicative processing time of ≈ 2–4 months. Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary (5 yrs) |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | 5 years (renewable) |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ≈ $475 |
| Processing time | ≈ 2–4 months |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary) — renewable; PR via skilled, partner or the NZ stream where eligible. |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary) — renewable; PR via skilled, partner or the NZ stream where eligible.
Many applicants also compare the 444 (Special Category visa (NZ)), the 820 / 801 (Partner visa (onshore)), the 189 (Skilled Independent visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 461 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 461 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 461 visa cost?
The New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461) base application charge is ≈ $475. Government charges are indicative for 2025–26 and usually change on 1 July — always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 461 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ≈ 2–4 months. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 461 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary) — renewable; PR via skilled, partner or the NZ stream where eligible.
Can I work on the subclass 461 visa?
Work rights on the New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 461 visa?
Non-NZ family members of a New Zealand citizen living in Australia, to live, work and study here.