Security Bond Information

If a security bond is required for a Sponsored Family Visitor visa (Subclass 679) application, the visa processing officer will advise the sponsor in writing. The advice will explain the process for lodging the bond and having the bond refunded once the visitor departs Australia, having complied with all their visa conditions.

If a security bond is required, it must be paid in full in Australia before a final decision can be made on the application.

Lodgement of the security bond

The bond should be lodged at Australia Post using the provided security bond lodgement form. The letter seeking the bond will provide details of how to lodge the bond, including a unique reference number to enable tracking of the payment.

Refund of the security bond

At the time the bond is lodged, the sponsor must indicate on the security bond lodgement form whether the refund should be made by cheque or directly into a bank account, including bank account details. The bond refund cannot be processed without this authorisation.

Once the visitor departs Australia the bond is refunded, usually within 30 days, provided that the visitor has complied with all their visa conditions.

The security bond will normally not be refunded if the visitor stays longer than the period authorised on their Sponsored Family Visitor visa even if the visa holder is granted another temporary or permanent visa.
See: More Information about the Security Bond