Australian Child Visas
Australian Child Visas:
If you’re a parent who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen, and you want Australian Child visa, there are several child visa options available. These visas allow dependent children to join their parents permanently and enjoy life in Australia, including access to education, healthcare, and a stable family environment.

Child Visa (Subclass 101) – For Children Outside Australia
This visa allows a child living outside Australia to move and live permanently with their parent in Australia.
Who can apply?
-
A child under 18 years old.
-
Or a child aged 18 to 25 years who is a full-time student and financially dependent on their parent.
-
Or a child over 18 years who cannot work due to a disability.
Key requirements:
-
The child must be single – not married, not engaged, and not in a de facto relationship.
-
The sponsoring parent must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
-
The child must be outside Australia when the visa is applied for and when it is granted.
What does the visa offer?
-
Permanent residency in Australia.
-
The ability to study and work.
-
Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
-
Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship in the future.
-
Travel freely in and out of Australia for up to 5 years.
-
After 5 years, apply for a Resident Return Visa to maintain re-entry rights.
Adoption Visa (Subclass 102) – For Adopted Children Living Overseas
This visa is for children who have been adopted or are in the process of being adopted by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Who can apply?
-
Children under 18 years old at the time of adoption, at the time of application, and at the time of decision.
-
The child must be outside Australia when applying and when the visa is decided.
-
The parent must be approved as a sponsor by the Department of Home Affairs.
Key conditions:
-
The adoption must comply with legal adoption practices, either through Australia’s intercountry adoption program or a recognized international process.
-
The sponsoring parent must have lived overseas for at least 12 months (in most cases) prior to applying.
Benefits of the visa:
-
The child becomes a permanent resident of Australia.
-
They can study and work, access Medicare, and eventually apply for citizenship.
-
Travel in and out of Australia for 5 years.
-
Sponsor eligible family members in the future.
Child Visa (Subclass 802) – For Children Already in Australia
If the child is already in Australia, this visa allows them to stay permanently with their eligible parent.
Who can apply?
-
A dependent child of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
-
The child must be:
-
Under 18 years, or
-
Aged 18–25, studying full-time and financially dependent, or
-
Over 18 and unable to work due to a disability.
-
-
The child must be in Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted.
-
Must be single and not in a relationship.
What does the visa allow?
-
Stay in Australia permanently with the sponsoring parent.
-
Study, work, and access Medicare.
-
Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.
-
Travel in and out of the country for 5 years.
-
After that, apply for a Resident Return Visa if needed.
Special Notes for Children Under 18
If the child is younger than 18 years old, the Australian government requires:
-
Written consent from all individuals who legally have a say in where the child can live, or
-
Proof that the child’s home country allows them to leave, or
-
The visa arrangement to be consistent with any family court orders in Australia.
Final Thoughts
These child visas are designed to reunite families and provide children with the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe, supportive environment. Whether you are adopting a child or bringing your biological child to Australia, it’s important to choose the right visa based on your situation — especially considering where the child is located at the time of application.
If you’re unsure which visa best suits your needs, it’s a good idea to speak with a registered migration agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website for up-to-date information.