Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802) — Australia

The Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802) provides a pathway for eligible children to join their parents in Australia permanently. This visa is specifically designed for dependent children of Australian citizens, eligible New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent visa holders, allowing them to reside in Australia indefinitely. The application must be lodged while the child is in Australia, and they must remain onshore during the decision-making process.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for this visa, the child must meet specific criteria. They need to be under 18 years of age, a full-time student aged over 18 but under 25, or over 18 and unable to work due to a disability. Importantly, the child must be single and financially dependent on the sponsoring parent. The relationship between the child and the parent must be clearly documented, requiring evidence such as a birth certificate or adoption papers.

Importance of Family Reunification

Family reunification is a cornerstone of Australia's immigration policies, allowing families to live together and support each other. The Subclass 802 Visa is an integral part of this framework, as it enables children to join their parents, contributing to family stability and cohesion. This aligns with other family visas, such as the Parent Visa (subclass 103) and Partner Visa (subclass 820 801), which similarly focus on uniting family members in Australia.

Related Pathways

While the Subclass 802 Visa is for children already in Australia, there are alternative options for those outside the country, like the Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101). It's crucial for applicants to choose the correct visa based on their circumstances and location. For further guidance on related visa options, you may explore the Documents Checklist and How To Apply guides to ensure a thorough understanding of the process.

Family reunification through visas like the Subclass 802 plays a vital role in maintaining the social fabric and supporting the well-being of families in Australia. By meeting the specified eligibility requirements and providing the necessary documentation, families can look forward to a successful reunification process.

When applying for a Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802) in Australia, ensuring that you meet the eligibility requirements is crucial for a successful application. This visa is designed to allow dependent children to live permanently in Australia with their parents. Below, we outline the key eligibility requirements including relationship proof, sponsor requirements, and financial thresholds.

Relationship Proof

• Dependent Child: The child must be a dependent of an eligible parent who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or holder of an Australian permanent visa.
• Age Requirements: The child should be under 18 years of age. However, if the child is a full-time student, they can be between 18 and 25 years old. For those over 18 who cannot work due to a disability, proof of this must be provided.
• Marital Status: The child must be single and reliant on the parent for financial support.
• Presence in Australia: The child must be in Australia both when the application is lodged and when a decision is made.

Sponsor Requirements

• Eligible Sponsor: The sponsoring parent must be either an Australian citizen, an eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian permanent visa holder. The sponsor must provide evidence of their citizenship or visa status.
• Relationship Documentation: Provide documents that establish the child's relationship to the sponsoring parent, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers. Certified copies of adoption papers are necessary if applicable.

Financial Thresholds

• Financial Dependency: If the child is over 18, evidence of financial dependency on the parent must be submitted. This can include bank statements, proof of education expenses, or other financial documents.
• Identity Documents: Ensure that identity documents such as a valid passport and national identity card are provided. The child's passport should be current, including pages showing the photo, personal details, and both issue and expiry dates.

For more information on the processing times and additional visa options, visit the Documents Checklist and How To Apply guides. You might also consider exploring related visas, such as the Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101) if your circumstances change.

When applying for the Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802), gathering the correct documentation is crucial. This visa allows a child to live permanently in Australia with their sponsoring parent. Below, you'll find the necessary documents divided into categories for ease of reference.

Relationship Evidence

To demonstrate the child's connection to the sponsoring parent, you must provide:

• Birth certificate or adoption papers. These should be certified copies that clearly establish the relationship.
• Certified copies of any adoption compliance certificate, if applicable.

Sponsor Documents

The sponsoring parent must supply:

• Proof of Australian citizenship, eligible New Zealand citizenship, or Australian permanent residency status.
• Evidence of financial capacity to support the child, especially if the child is over 18 and studying full-time or unable to work due to a disability. This includes payslips, bank statements, or tax records.

Identity Documents

Each child applicant must present:

• A valid passport, including certified copies of the pages showing the photo, personal details, and passport issue and expiry dates.
• A certified copy of the passport or travel document used to enter Australia, alongside any previous passports held.
• Four recent passport-size photos (45mm x 35mm).

Financial Proof

If the child is over 18, you must provide evidence of financial dependency:

• Documents such as bank statements or financial support letters from the sponsoring parent.
• Proof of full-time enrollment in an educational institution if applicable.

For further guidance, you can refer to the Documents Checklist and explore related visas such as Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101). Understanding the specific requirements and processes for the Child Visa can streamline your application experience.

To apply for the Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802), you'll need to follow a structured two-stage process involving sponsor approval and the applicant visa application. This visa is designed to allow a dependent child to stay in Australia permanently with their parent who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent visa holder.

1. Sponsor Approval

The first step is securing approval from the sponsoring parent. The sponsor must be:

• An Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or holder of an Australian permanent visa.
• Able to provide evidence of the child's dependency and relationship, such as birth certificates or adoption papers.

Sponsorship is a crucial part of the application, and the sponsor must complete and submit the necessary forms, usually including Form 40CH, to the Department of Home Affairs.

2. Applicant Visa Application

Once the sponsor is approved, the child (applicant) must lodge their visa application. The application process involves several key steps:

1. Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documentation, including:

   • Valid passport for the child.
   • Evidence of the child's relationship to the sponsor, such as birth certificates or adoption papers.
   • Financial documents if the child is over 18, indicating dependency on the parent.
   • Certified copies of any previous passports used by the child to enter Australia.

2. Complete Application Forms: The child must complete Form 47CH, ensuring all sections are accurately filled out. Both Form 47CH and the sponsorship form should be submitted together.

3.4. Pay the Application Fee: Use the online portal payment function in Immi Account to pay the required fees. Ensure the payment is complete at the time of lodging the application.

Important Considerations

• The child must be in Australia both when the application is lodged and when a decision is made.
• Ensure all information and documents are accurate to prevent delays in processing.

For more information on processing times, you can refer to the Processing Times guide. For other visa types or situations, such as the Partner 820 801 or Parent 103, visit our comprehensive visa index.

Fees for the Child Visa (Onshore) (Subclass 802)

When applying for the Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802), it's essential to understand the costs involved. The application fee is a crucial part of the process, and as of 2026, this fee is AUD 2,665. This fee is subject to change, so verify the current amount on the official website of the Department of Home Affairs for the most accurate information.

In addition to the application fee, there may be other charges, such as those for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics. These additional costs can vary, so it's advisable to prepare accordingly and consult the Documents Checklist for more details.

Processing Times

The processing time for the Subclass 802 visa can vary significantly. It generally ranges from 13 to 17 months, depending on individual circumstances and the volume of applications. Factors that can influence the processing time include the completeness of the application, whether additional information is required, and the time taken to verify the submitted documents.

For the latest processing timelines, refer to the Processing Times Guide provided by the Department of Home Affairs. It's important to regularly check this guide, as processing times can fluctuate.

Comparison Table

Understanding these details helps ensure a smoother application process. While waiting for your application decision, explore other visa options like the Student Guardian 590 if you need to stay with a dependent child who is studying in Australia.

Family-based immigration adds relationship scrutiny on top of standard requirements for Australia immigration. An immigration professional can help if:

• Your relationship involves circumstances that could raise genuineness questions (short courtship, significant age gap, limited shared history)
• Your sponsor's immigration status is itself complicated
• You have a prior visa denial or refusal
• You have a prior overstay, unlawful presence, or removal order
• You have a criminal record, arrest history, or pending charges
• You have a prior misrepresentation or fraud finding
• You are in removal or deportation proceedings

The Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802) allows eligible children to remain in Australia permanently, providing them the opportunity to live with their parents who are Australian citizens, eligible New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent visa holders. Understanding the rights and conditions that come with this visa is essential for making informed decisions.

Can You Work with a Child Visa?

Children holding a Subclass 802 Visa have the right to live and study in Australia, but work rights are generally not applicable to minor children. For those aged over 18, whether studying full-time or unable to work due to a disability, work rights might be restricted depending on their specific circumstances and the supporting documents provided.

Residency Conditions

The Subclass 802 Visa grants permanent residency, allowing the child to reside in Australia indefinitely. This includes access to Medicare, Australia's healthcare system, and the ability to apply for Australian citizenship once eligibility requirements are met. It's important to note that the child must be in Australia both at the time of application and when a decision is made on their visa.

Is There a Minimum Income Requirement?

There is no explicit minimum income requirement for the child themselves. However, financial dependency must be demonstrated, especially for applicants over 18. This may involve providing evidence such as financial documents showing reliance on the sponsoring parent.

How to Maintain Visa Conditions

To maintain the benefits of the Subclass 802 Visa, it's crucial to comply with all visa conditions. This includes:

• Ensuring the child remains under the care of the sponsoring parent.
• Keeping all personal details up to date with the Department of Home Affairs.
• Maintaining compliance with Australian laws.

For more details on managing your visa status, explore related topics like Permanent Residence and the PR Pathway Guide.

By understanding these conditions, you can ensure that the child's transition to life in Australia is as smooth as possible. For any complex situations or uncertainties, consider consulting a registered migration agent.

The Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802) is a pathway to permanent residency for children dependent on parents who are Australian citizens, eligible New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent visa holders. This visa allows the child to reside in Australia indefinitely, aligning their residency status with that of their sponsoring parent.

When Does the Child Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?

Once granted, the Subclass 802 Child Visa immediately confers permanent residency status to the child. This status allows the child to live, study, and work in Australia permanently. Importantly, the child must be in Australia at both the time of the application and the decision. To qualify, the child should be under 18 years, a full-time student aged 18 to 25, or over 18 and unable to work due to a disability. Additionally, the child must remain single and dependent on the sponsoring parent.

Steps to Confirm Permanent Residency

1. Eligibility Verification: Confirm that the child meets all eligibility criteria, including dependency on the parent and age requirements.

2. Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents, such as identity proofs and evidence of relationship and dependency. This includes the child's passport, birth certificate, and any financial documents if the child is over 18.

3. Application Process: Lodge the application through the IMMIACCOUNT-PORTAL and pay the required fee using the online portal. It's crucial to submit complete and accurate information.

4. Await Decision: Processing times can vary, so check the Processing Times guide for current estimates.

Benefits of Permanent Residency

With permanent residency granted under the Subclass 802, the child can enjoy numerous benefits, including access to healthcare through Medicare, eligibility for certain social security benefits, and the opportunity to apply for Australian Citizenship in the future. The path to citizenship typically requires the child to live in Australia for a specified period and meet other criteria outlined by the Department of Home Affairs.

Transitioning from a family visa to permanent residency under the Subclass 802 Child Visa offers a stable and secure future for children residing in Australia, ensuring they can fully integrate and thrive alongside their families.

The Subclass 802 Child Visa grants permanent residency status, allowing your child to stay in Australia indefinitely. Thus, there is no conventional renewal or extension process for this visa. Once granted, the child holds a permanent visa, which enables them to live in Australia permanently, access healthcare, and pursue education.

However, maintaining this status involves meeting certain conditions, such as continuing to reside in Australia or obtaining a Resident Return Visa if the child plans to travel outside Australia and re-enter as a permanent resident.

Maintaining Family Visa Status

To sustain the benefits of the Subclass 802 Child Visa, it is crucial to ensure all conditions are met:

• Residency Requirements: The child must continue to reside in Australia and maintain ties to the country. If the child plans to travel, ensure their travel facility is valid by checking through the VEVO system.
• Travel Facility: The initial travel facility on a permanent visa is typically valid for five years. After this period, the child may need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident.

Conditional Status Removal

If the child was granted the visa under specific conditions, such as dependency due to disability, these conditions must remain valid. If circumstances change, it's important to inform the Department of Home Affairs to ensure compliance and maintain visa status.

For more information on managing family visas or transitioning to other types of visas, consider exploring guides such as Visa Extension Guide or PR Pathway Guide.

When applying for a Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802), understanding the reasons a family visa might be denied can help you avoid common pitfalls. This visa is meant for dependent children of Australian citizens, eligible New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent visa holders. However, even if you meet the basic eligibility criteria, several factors can lead to a denial.

Common Reasons for Visa Denial

Relationship Evidence Gaps

One of the most common reasons for denial is insufficient evidence of the child's relationship to the sponsoring parent. You must provide clear documentation, such as:

• Birth certificates or adoption papers that confirm the relationship.
• Certified copies of any adoption compliance certificates if applicable.

Failing to submit these documents or providing incorrect details can result in significant delays or rejection. It's crucial to ensure all information matches official records.

Financial Shortfalls

For applicants over 18 years who are full-time students, you must prove financial dependency on the sponsoring parent. This can include:

• Bank statements showing regular financial support.
• Evidence of the child's enrolment in full-time education.

Without these, you risk the application being viewed as incomplete or misleading. For detailed financial requirements, refer to the Financial Requirements Guide.

Prior Violations

Previous breaches of visa conditions can severely impact your application. This includes:

• Overstaying a visa.
• Providing false information in past applications.

Such violations can lead to questioning the applicant’s intent and eligibility. It's essential to disclose any past issues honestly and provide explanations or supporting documents where necessary.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Gather all required documents ahead of time, and ensure they are current and certified.
• Make sure to pay the complete application fee through the Immi Account to avoid delays.
• Consider professional advice if your case is complex, especially if previous applications were denied. Consulting a registered migration agent can offer clarity on the process and requirements.

For more insights into why visas might be refused and how to navigate the complexities, check the Visa Refusal Reasons guide. Understanding these factors can enhance your chances of a successful family reunification under the Child Visa (subclass 802).