Bring your child to Australia with a Child Visa. Whether your child is overseas (Subclass 101) or already in Australia (Subclass 802), there’s a pathway to reunite your family in Australia.

A family picture

Reunite your family in Australia

Pathway to permanent residency for children.

Child visas in Australia, supporting family reunification for dependent children.

What is a Child Visa?

A Child Visa allows dependent children of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to migrate to Australia. Child visas are permanent visas that allow children to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.

There are two main types of child visas: Subclass 101 (for children outside Australia) and Subclass 802 (for children already in Australia).

Child Visa

Types of Child Visas

Subclass 101 (Child Visa – Offshore): For dependent children who are outside Australia. This is a permanent visa.

Subclass 802 (Child Visa – Onshore): For dependent children who are already in Australia on a valid visa. This is a permanent visa.

Child Visa Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a Child Visa, the child must:

  • Be dependent: Generally under 18 years old, or under 25 and a full-time student, or have a disability

  • Be single: Not married, engaged, or in a de facto relationship

  • Have a sponsor: Parent must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

  • Meet health requirements: Pass medical examinations

  • Meet character requirements: Provide police clearances (if 16 years or older)

  • Meet relationship requirements: Provide evidence of relationship to sponsoring parent

Age Requirements for Child Visas

A child is generally considered dependent if they are:

  • Under 18 years old
  • 18–24 years old and a full-time student dependent on the parent
  • Any age with a disability that prevents them from working

Note: The age limit for dependent child visa in Australia is generally 18, but can extend to 24 for full-time students.

Child Visa Processing Times

Processing times for child visas vary:

  • 75% of applications: Processed within 6–8 months
  • 90% of applications: Processed within 10–12 months

Note: Processing times can vary based on application completeness, location, and current processing volumes.

Child Visa Costs

Current child visa application fees are approximately $3,085 AUD (as of 2025).

Additional costs may include:

  • Medical examinations
  • Police clearances (if 16 years or older)
  • Translation of documents
  • Migration agent fees (if using professional assistance)

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check current fees with the Department of Home Affairs.

Child Visa

Let Us Help You Secure Your Child Visa

At Hays Migration, we understand that bringing your child to Australia is an important family decision — but you don’t have to do it alone.

Our experienced team of MARA-registered agents and migration lawyers are here to guide you through every step, from assessing eligibility to preparing documentation and managing your child’s visa application.