A practical guide to Family reunion options in Australia - Afghanistan update

​​​​​​The Department recognises the rapidly deteriorating situation in Afghanistan. The Australian Government is establishing flight options for Australian citizens, Permanent Residents, and immediate family members, who are seeking to depart the country.

Family visas & Citizenship

Visa applications from people in Afghanistan will be finalised as quickly as possible once all requirements are assessed.

All visa applications must meet the requirements in the migration legislation before a visa is granted, including health, character and identity.

All existing citizenship by descent applications for Afghan nationals in Afghanistan are being treated as a high priority.

Afghan nationals onshore

Afghan visa holders currently in Australia will not be asked to return to Afghanistan while their security is at risk. Afghan citizens currently in Australia on temporary visas will be supported by the Australian Government.

Afghan citizens who meet the requirements for a humanitarian visa and wish to seek Australia’s assistance are strongly encouraged to make an application.

Family reunion in Australia

Australia’s Special Humanitarian Program reunites refugees and their family in Australia. 

Immediate family of people who have been resettled under the Humanitarian Program are given highest priority.

People who arrived in Australia without a valid visa on or after 13 August 2012, and hold a TPV or SHEV, are not eligible to propose relatives through the Humanitarian Program. 

As well as the Humanitarian Program, Australia’s Migration Program is for people who wish to migrate on the basis of their skills or family relationships in Australia. 

All applications must meet eligibility criteria. More information will be provided on website when available.  

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