Parent, Adult Sibling and Adult Child applications (capped applications). These applications will be added to a managed queue and processed in order. Global parity of processing in this stream means that branches are given an annual decision allocation based on the age of work on hand so that applicants have a similar waiting time no matter where they apply. Branches are required to process family capped applications throughout the year to meet, but not exceed, the overall decision allocation. These applications will be allocated to a case officer within 18 months of being accepted for consideration.
The time taken to finalise a family category residence application varies greatly. If there are no health or character concerns, no custody issues and you have provided all of the required documentation, your application will normally be finalised within three to six months of being allocated to a case officer.