Need help with family visas? Book a telephonic consultation with our MARA-registered agents (Reg# 2217775).
What Is the Child Visa?
Family Reunion for Children
Child visas allow dependent children to join their parent who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Multiple Subclasses Available
Options include Subclass 101 (offshore), 802 (onshore), 102 (adoption), 117/837 (orphan relative) — each for different family circumstances.
Biological & Adopted Children
Covers biological children, legally adopted children, and stepchildren where legal responsibility can be demonstrated.
Permanent Residency
Most child visa subclasses grant permanent residency on approval, allowing the child to live, study, and work in Australia.
Child Visa Types
Subclass 101 – Child (Offshore)
For dependent children outside Australia. Grants permanent residency. Child must be single, dependent, and under 18 (or dependent student/disability).
Subclass 802 – Child (Onshore)
For dependent children already in Australia. Grants permanent residency. Same eligibility criteria as Subclass 101 but lodged onshore.
Subclass 102 – Adoption
For children legally adopted by Australian citizens or PRs. Requires documentation from adoption authorities confirming the legal adoption.
Subclass 117/837 – Orphan Relative
For children whose parents are deceased, incapacitated, or cannot be located. Sponsor must be an eligible relative living in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
Parent Must Be PR or Citizen
The sponsoring parent must hold Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or be an eligible New Zealand citizen settled in Australia.
Child Must Be Dependent
Child must be under 18, or 18–25 as a full-time dependent student, or over 18 with a recognised disability that prevents work.
Custody & Parental Consent
Full legal custody, or written consent from all guardians, or evidence of sole decision-making rights must be demonstrated.
Health & Character
Children must undergo health examinations. Police clearances apply for children aged 16 and above.
How ABEE'S Consultancy Helps
Subclass Selection
We identify the correct visa subclass based on the child's location, relationship type, and circumstances.
Relationship Evidence
We assist with compiling birth certificates, custody orders, court documents, consent letters, and adoption papers.
Application & Lodgement
We prepare and lodge the complete application, coordinate health checks, and manage Departmental correspondence through to grant.
Documents Required
- Child's passport
- Sponsoring parent's Australian citizenship certificate or PR visa grant letter
- Birth certificate proving parent-child relationship
- Adoption papers (if applicable)
- Custody orders or written consent from all guardians
- Health examination results
- Police clearance (for children aged 16+)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Each child requires their own separate visa application, even if siblings are applying at the same time.
If the child was under 18 at the time of application lodgement and remains dependent (e.g., full-time student), they can generally still be granted the visa.
Yes, stepchildren qualify if legal custody or parental responsibility can be established through court orders or consent from the other parent.