1. What is a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

A Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) is a temporary visa that allows dependent children of holders of the Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) or Certain Other Family Visas to live, study, and work in Australia with their parent. This visa allows children to continue living with their parents while their permanent visa application is being processed.

2. Who is eligible for a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

Children who are under the age of 18, unmarried, and financially dependent on their parent(s) can apply for a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445). This includes stepchildren, adopted children, and biological children of the parent(s). Children over the age of 18 may also be eligible if they have been fully engaged in study or dependent on their parent(s) due to a disability.

3. What are the requirements for a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

Applicants must meet several requirements in order to be granted a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445), including:

– Being sponsored by their parent who holds either a Temporary Partner Visa or Certain Other Family Visas
– Meeting health and character requirements
– Being able to prove their relationship with their sponsoring parent
– Proving that they are financially dependent on their sponsoring parent

4. Can I include my child in my application for a Temporary Partner Visa?

Yes, you can include your child in your application for a Temporary Partner Visa. However, if your child is born after you have submitted your application or arrives in Australia after your visa is granted, you will need to apply for a separate Subclass 445 visa for them.

5. How long does it take to process a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

The processing time for this visa varies depending on individual circumstances and external factors such as workload and demand. On average, it takes between 12-20 months from the date of application to be processed.

6. Can I work on a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

Yes, holders of a Dependent Child Visa are allowed to work in Australia, as long as they meet the age and study requirements set by the Australian government.

7. Can I study on a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

Yes, dependent children can enroll in full-time education courses while on this visa.

8. Is the Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) a permanent or temporary visa?

The Dependent Child Visa is a temporary visa that allows children to remain in Australia until their parent’s partner visa application is finalized. Once their parent’s partner visa is granted, the child will need to apply for a permanent visa such as the Subclass 801 Partner Visa.

9. How do I apply for a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)?

You can apply for this visa online through the Department of Home Affairs website or by post. You will need to complete the relevant forms, provide supporting documents, and pay the application fee.

10. Can I include other family members on my application for a Dependent Child Visa?

No, only dependent children can be included in your application for this visa. Other family members must submit separate applications if they wish to join you in Australia.

2. Who is eligible for a Dependent Child Visa?

A Dependent Child Visa is a type of visa that allows dependent children to live in a foreign country with their parents or legal guardians who hold a valid visa in that country. The specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the country, but generally, the following conditions must be met:

1. The child must be under 18 years of age.
2. The child must be unmarried and not in a de facto relationship (sometimes exceptions are made for older children if they have a disability).
3. The child must be financially dependent on the parent or legal guardian.
4. The parent or legal guardian must hold a valid visa in the foreign country.
5. The child must meet health and character requirements.
6. In some cases, proof of relationship between the parent or legal guardian and the child may be required.

It is important to note that each country has its own specific guidelines and requirements for Dependent Child Visas, so it is best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information.

3. Can stepchildren be included in the application for a Dependent Child Visa?

Yes, stepchildren can be included in an application for a Dependent Child Visa. The eligibility criteria for stepchildren will depend on the specific country’s immigration laws and regulations. In general, they must meet the following criteria:

– The applicant must have a legal relationship with their stepchild (e.g. through marriage or de facto relationship)
– The stepchild must be under the age of 18
– The applicant must have custody or legal guardianship of the child
– The stepchild must not be married or in a de facto relationship
– The applicant must be able to financially support the stepchild without relying on public funds
– The stepchild must meet health and character requirements

It is important to consult with the relevant immigration authorities of the country you are applying to for more specific information and guidance.

4. Is there an age limit for dependent children on this visa?

Yes, there is an age limit for dependent children on this visa. They must be under the age of 18 years old when the visa application is lodged and have not yet turned 25 years old at the time of grant. In some cases, children over the age of 18 may still be eligible as a dependent if they are unable to support themselves due to a disability or ongoing education.

5. Do I need to sponsor my child for a Dependent Child Visa?

Yes, in order for your child to obtain a Dependent Child Visa, you will need to sponsor them as their parent or legal guardian. This means that you will be responsible for providing financial support and care for your child while they are in Australia.

6. What are the requirements for sponsorship of a dependent child?

The specific requirements for sponsorship of a dependent child may vary depending on the country and immigration program being used. In general, the following are common requirements for sponsoring a dependent child:

1. Age: The child must be under a certain age (usually, 18 or 21) to be considered dependent.

2. Relationship: The sponsor must prove that the child is their biological or adopted child, or their step-child.

3. Financial ability: The sponsor must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to support the child during their stay in the country.

4. Immigration status: The sponsor must have legal immigration status in the country where they are applying for sponsorship.

5. Intent to live together: The sponsor and the child must have clear plans to live together in the country where the sponsorship is being applied for.

6. Medical examination: Both the sponsor and the dependent child may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet health requirements for entry into the country.

7. Background checks: Sponsors and their dependent children may also be required to undergo background checks, including criminal record checks.

8. Documentation: Sponsors will need to provide supporting documentation such as birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), and proof of relationship with the child.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the immigration program being used and additional criteria may apply in certain cases. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or check official government websites for more specific information related to your situation.

7. How long does it take to process a Dependent Child Visa application?

The processing time for a Dependent Child Visa application can vary depending on individual circumstances and the country you are applying from. On average, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months. However, factors such as completing all necessary forms accurately and providing all required documents can expedite the process. It is recommended to check the processing times for your specific situation on the immigration website of the country you are applying to.

8. Do I need to have Australian citizenship or permanent residency to sponsor my child for this visa?

No, you do not need to have Australian citizenship or permanent residency to sponsor your child for this visa. However, you must be an eligible parent according to the Department of Home Affairs criteria and meet all the requirements for sponsorship.

9. Can I include multiple dependent children in one application?

Yes, you can include multiple dependent children in one application as long as they meet the eligibility requirements for dependent status. Each child will need to have their own application form and supporting documents submitted.

10. What type of relationship documents do I need to provide as evidence of dependency between myself and my child?

To prove dependency between yourself and your child, you may be asked to provide one or more of the following relationship documents:

1. Birth certificate: This document shows that you are the parent of the child.

2. Adoption papers: If you have legally adopted the child, you will need to provide adoption papers as proof of your legal relationship.

3. Custody agreement: If you have a custody agreement with the other parent, this document can serve as evidence of your relationship with the child.

4. Court order for child support: A court order for child support also demonstrates that you have a parental relationship with the child.

5. Passport or passport card: If your child has their own passport, it can be used as evidence of your relationship as their parent.

6. School records: If your child is enrolled in school, school records can be used as evidence of your parental relationship and dependency on your child.

7. Medical records: Medical records that show that you are listed as the parent or guardian of the child can also serve as evidence of dependency.

8. Affidavit from a third-party witness: In some cases, a written statement from a third-party who knows about and can verify your relationship with the child may be accepted as evidence.

9. Marriage certificate: If you are married to the other parent of the child, a marriage certificate can be used to establish a legal relationship between yourself and the child.

10. Documents showing shared residence or financial support: Any documents that show that you live with and financially support your child, such as lease agreements or bank statements, can also serve as proof of dependency.

11. What documents do I need to provide as proof of identity for my child?

The documents needed to provide as proof of identity for a child may vary depending on the specific situation and the requirements of the institution or organization. However, some commonly accepted documents include:

1. Birth Certificate: This is considered the primary proof of identity for children and contains important information such as the child’s full name, date of birth, place of birth, and parent’s names.

2. Passport: A valid passport with the child’s photo and personal details is also accepted as proof of identity.

3. Social Security Number: In some cases, a child’s social security number may be required as proof of identity.

4. State-issued ID or Driver’s License: Some institutions may accept a state-issued identification card or driver’s license as proof of identity for older children.

5. School ID: For school-related activities, a school-issued ID card with the child’s name and photograph may be accepted as proof of identity.

6. Parental/Guardian Identification: In situations where a child does not have any personal identification documents yet, a parent or legal guardian’s photo ID along with their relationship to the child may be requested.

It is always best to check with the specific institution or organization beforehand to confirm what documents are required for providing proof of identity for your child.

12. Is there a medical examination required for the dependent child being sponsored under this visa?

Yes, a medical examination is required for all dependent children being sponsored under this visa. The sponsoring parent will need to provide proof of their child’s good health and medical history as part of the visa application. The child will also need to undergo a medical examination by an authorized panel physician before the visa can be granted.

13. Are there any health requirements that must be met in order for the Dependent Child Visa application to be successful?

Yes, the dependent child must meet the health requirements as set by immigration authorities in the country of destination. This may include undergoing a medical examination and providing documentation to prove that they are in good health. The specific health requirements may vary depending on the country and immigration policies.

14. Can my child work in Australia on this visa?

Children who are accompanying their parents on this visa are allowed to study in Australia. However, they are not allowed to work in Australia unless they apply for a separate visa that allows them to work. This can include a student visa or a working holiday visa, depending on their age and circumstances.

15. Will my child have access to healthcare in Australia on this visa?

Yes, children on this visa will have access to Australia’s healthcare system, Medicare. They may also be covered under their parent’s private health insurance if applicable. It is important to inquire about any specific requirements or coverage limitations with your child’s healthcare provider.

16. Does my child need English language proficiency to be granted this visa?

Yes, English language proficiency is required for this visa as it will be necessary for your child to attend school and communicate with teachers and classmates. However, the level of proficiency may vary depending on the age and type of school your child will attend. It is best to check with the specific requirements of the school or education provider your child will be attending.

17. How long can my dependent child stay in Australia on this visa?

Dependent children can stay in Australia for the same period as the primary visa holder, as long as they continue to meet the visa requirements. This means that if the primary visa holder’s visa is valid for 4 years, their dependent children can also stay in Australia for 4 years. If the primary visa holder’s visa expires or is cancelled, the dependent child’s visa will also expire. It is important to keep track of your dependent child’s visa expiry date and renew it before it expires, if necessary.

18. Can we travel outside of Australia while on this visa?

Yes, it is possible to travel outside of Australia while on this visa. However, you must obtain a return resident visa before departing in order to be allowed back into Australia. You must also ensure that your travel will not interfere with the 2 years of residence required for permanent residency.

19. Is it possible to apply for permanent residency after holding the Dependent Child Visa?

Yes, it is possible to apply for permanent residency after holding a Dependent Child Visa. The specific requirements and process may vary depending on the country where the visa was issued and the immigration laws of that country. Generally, a child who has held a Dependent Child Visa for a period of time and meets certain eligibility criteria may be able to apply for permanent residency through family sponsorship or other immigration programs. It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer or the relevant government immigration agency for more information on the specific process and requirements.

20. Are there any restrictions on which schools or universities my dependent child can attend while in Australia?

There are generally no restrictions on which schools or universities your dependent child can attend while in Australia. However, they may need a student visa and may be subject to the same eligibility requirements as other international students. Additionally, if you are studying on a sponsored visa (such as a subclass 500 student visa), your dependents will also need to have their own sponsored visas (subclass 500 dependent student visa) in order to study in Australia. It is recommended to check with the specific school or university for any additional requirements or restrictions for international students.