The federal government is cracking down on the sponsors of family visa holders.

Legislation introduced to parliament on Wednesday means sponsors will be scrutinised before visas are issued and those who don't properly assist the new arrivals will be punished.

Immigration Minister Peter Dutton said little focus on character had led to people with a violent history, including against family members, being able to sponsor people.

While sponsors had to promise to support the people they were sponsoring for two years, there were no consequences if they reneged.

Mr Dutton said the measure would fix these shortcomings by requiring sponsors to be assessed and imposing penalties for breaches of obligations.