On this page
- Australia dependent child visa 445: Overview
- Required Documents (subclass 445)
- Fees and Processing Times
- The Two-Stage Process
- From Family Visa to PR
- When to Get Help
- Extending Your Family Visa
- Your Rights After Approval
- Sponsor and Applicant Requirements
- Why Family Visas Get Denied
- Fees
- Required forms
- Related visa types
- Related goals
- Next steps
Australia dependent child visa 445: Overview
#The Dependent Child visa (subclass 445) allows your child to stay in Australia temporarily while Home Affairs decides your permanent Partner visa application.
It helps keep families together during processing and grants your child work, study, and travel rights.
Purpose and scope
The Dependent Child visa (subclass 445) is a temporary visa for a child whose parent holds a Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309) or Partner visa (subclass 820).
It’s used when the child wasn’t included in the parent’s original Partner visa application.
Home Affairs uses this visa to let children remain with a parent in Australia while the permanent Partner visa decision is pending.
This visa sits within Australia’s broader child visa framework, which also includes:
| Visa | Who it is for | Temporary or permanent |
|---|---|---|
| Child Visa (subclass 101) | Child applying from outside Australia | Permanent |
| Child Visa (subclass 802) | Child applying in Australia | Permanent |
| Adoption Visa (subclass 102) | Adopted child | Permanent |
| Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117) | Orphaned child with eligible relative | Permanent |
| Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) | Child of certain Partner visa holders | Temporary |
Processing typically takes 3 to 6 months.
Who it keeps together
This visa keeps your child with you while you wait for a decision on your permanent Partner visa.
Your child must be dependent on a parent who holds:
- Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309), or
- Partner visa (subclass 820), or
- Dependent Child visa (subclass 445)
Your child must apply to be added to your permanent Partner visa application after the 445 visa is granted.
Home Affairs assesses dependency as part of the application.
You must ensure all required documents are complete and accurate.
If the other parent has legal responsibility for the child, you may need consent documentation, such as Form Form 1229, to support the application.
Key entitlements while the visa is held
While your child holds a Dependent Child visa (subclass 445), they can:
- Stay in Australia until Home Affairs decides your permanent Partner visa
- Travel to and from Australia
- Work in Australia
- Study in Australia
- Attend free English classes through the Adult Migrant English Program, if eligible
These rights apply only during the temporary period.
The visa does not grant permanent residence on its own.
Once your child receives the 445 visa, you need to add them to your permanent Partner visa application so Home Affairs can consider them for permanent residence.
Required Documents (subclass 445)
#You must prove your child’s identity, your relationship to the child, and the child’s dependency.
You also need to meet health and character requirements and provide properly certified copies to the Department of Home Affairs.
Identity and biographical evidence
You must provide clear proof of your child’s identity and personal details.
Home Affairs won’t assess the application without complete identity documents.
Prepare:
- Current passport (make sure it’s valid)
- Any national identity card
- Passport-size photographs of the child and any dependent children included
- Certified copies of any change of name documents
- Certified copies of all identity documents
If documents aren’t in English, you must provide translations.
Include identity documents that confirm the child’s biographical details match previous applications, including any linked permanent visa applications such as the Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101) or Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802), if relevant.
Incomplete or inconsistent identity documents can delay subclass 445 decisions.
Relationship and dependency evidence
You must show that the child is your dependent and that a genuine parent–child relationship exists.
The strongest evidence is official civil documentation.
Key documents include:
- Birth certificate showing both parents
- Evidence of the child’s relationship to the parent who holds the relevant Australian visa
- Documents confirming any previous applications affecting the child’s status
- Proof of sponsorship, if applicable
If the child is over 18 years old, you must provide evidence of financial dependency.
This should clearly demonstrate ongoing reliance on the parent.
If the child is under 18, you must provide written consent from every person who has legal rights over the child’s residence.
Use Form Form 1229 where required.
Your evidence should clearly distinguish this visa from other pathways such as the Adoption Visa (subclass 102), Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117), or Carer Visa (subclass 836), if those categories could appear relevant.
Health, character and certified copies
Your child must meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
Home Affairs will advise if medical examinations are required.
You should be prepared to provide:
- Medical examination results (if requested)
- Police certificates for children aged 16 or older
- Certified copies of all supporting documents
Only submit properly certified copies unless Home Affairs specifically asks for originals.
Poor-quality scans or uncertified copies can result in delays.
The table below summarises these requirements:
| Requirement | Who must provide it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical examination | Child (if requested) | Must meet health requirement |
| Police certificate | Child aged 16+ | Required for character assessment |
| Certified copies | All applicants | Applies to identity and supporting documents |
| Translations | Any non‑English documents | Must accompany certified copy |
Submit complete and consistent documentation to avoid unnecessary processing delays.
Fees and Processing Times
#You must pay a government charge and plan for several months of processing.
Home Affairs publishes current fees and timeframes, and you should verify them before you apply.
Application charge
The visa application charge for the Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) is A$3,235 (as of July 2025).
This fee applies to the primary applicant.
If you include other applicants, Home Affairs may charge additional amounts.
| Item | Amount (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 445 base application charge | A$3,235 | Amount current as of July 2025 |
You pay the charge when you submit the application to Home Affairs.
The department won’t begin processing until you complete payment.
If your child is under 18 and someone other than a parent or legal guardian is involved in the application process, you may need to provide Form Form 1229 (Consent to grant an Australian visa to a child under the age of 18 years).
This form does not replace the visa charge.
Fees for other child-related visas, such as the Child Visa (subclass 101), Child Visa (subclass 802), Adoption Visa (subclass 102), Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117), and Carer Visa (subclass 836), differ.
Confirm the correct amount for each subclass directly with Home Affairs.
Typical processing windows
Under the Standard processing category, the subclass 445 visa currently takes 3 to 6 months to process (as of March 2026).
| Processing category | Current timeframe |
|---|---|
| Standard | 3 to 6 months |
processing times vary by the processing location, the volume of applications, and whether your case requires additional checks.
If Home Affairs refers your case for character consideration, processing can take longer.
These cases often involve complex or sensitive matters.
Published timeframes reflect recently decided applications, not guaranteed decision dates.
If you plan to later apply for a permanent visa such as the Child Visa (subclass 101) or Child Visa (subclass 802), factor in the subclass 445 processing period when you organise your overall migration timeline.
Where to check current times
You should always confirm the latest timeframe before you apply.
Use the visa processing times guide tool available through the Department of Home Affairs.
This tool provides an indication of how long recently decided applications have taken.
Follow these steps:
-
Go to the Department of Home Affairs website.
-
Open the visa processing times guide.
-
Select the Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) from the dropdown list.
-
Review the timeframe shown for recently finalised applications.
Home Affairs also publishes information about visa processing priorities and quarterly updates.
These resources help you understand general trends but do not predict your exact decision date.
If the page does not load, clear your browser cache and refresh your browser (Ctrl + F5), then try again.
The Two-Stage Process
#You complete the Subclass 445 process in two distinct parts: the parent’s sponsorship step and the child’s visa application.
You must prepare specific forms, pay the correct charge, and lodge the application through the correct channel with the Department of Home Affairs.
Stage 1: Sponsorship / nomination steps
The sponsoring parent starts the process as part of their own partner visa pathway.
You must complete Form 918 – Application for a Subclass 445 (Temporary) Visa for your dependent child.
You must also complete Form 1002 and attach it to your visa application through ImmiAccount.
If you cannot upload documents, notify Home Affairs using the Partner Processing Enquiry Form.
Prepare clear copies of required documents before lodging.
At a minimum, gather:
- The child’s identity documents
- Evidence of the child’s character
- A valid passport
- Evidence the child holds a valid visa to enter Australia, if applicable
Pay the required application charge in AUD (A$) before you submit a paper application.
Check the Department of Home Affairs fee calculator for the current amount.
Home Affairs assesses the sponsorship and links the child’s application to the parent’s case.
Stage 2: Lodging the child's application
After completing the required forms, you lodge the child’s Subclass 445 application with Home Affairs.
You must ensure all forms are complete and signed before submission.
If the child is under 18 and not applying with both parents, include Form Form 1229 to confirm consent from the non‑accompanying parent or legal guardian.
Submit all supporting documents at the time of application to avoid delays.
These typically include:
- Identity documents
- Character documents
- Passport biodata page
- Any requested supporting evidence
You must pay the application charge before posting a paper application.
Do not send payment separately unless instructed.
The Subclass 445 visa is separate from permanent child visa options such as:
| Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101) | Permanent visa for children outside Australia |
| Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802) | Permanent visa for children in Australia |
| Adoption Visa (subclass 102) | For children adopted outside Australia |
| Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117) | For eligible orphan relatives offshore |
| Carer Visa (subclass 836) | For carers of relatives with medical needs |
You must choose the correct visa type when completing your application in ImmiAccount.
How to lodge (ImmiAccount, post, special instructions)
You can lodge the Subclass 445 application online or on paper.
Option 1: ImmiAccount (online)
-
Log in or create an ImmiAccount.
-
Select Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) from the visa list.
-
Upload Form 918, Form 1002, and all supporting documents.
-
Pay the application charge online in AUD (A$).
If you cannot upload documents, notify Home Affairs using the Partner Processing Enquiry Form.
Option 2: Paper application (post or courier)
- Complete all required forms.
- Pay the application charge before sending the application.
- Send the full application package by post or courier to the Child and Other Family Processing Centre in Perth.
Before travel to Australia, ensure your child holds a valid passport and visa.
On arrival, your child must complete an Incoming Passenger Card for the Australian Border Force.
From Family Visa to PR
#A Subclass 445 visa lets you stay connected to your parent’s Partner visa pathway.
You must take action before your parent’s permanent stage is decided.
Timing, location, and correct forms determine whether you move with your parent to permanent residence.
When to be added to the parent’s permanent application
You have to ask to be added to your parent’s permanent Partner visa application before Home Affairs makes a decision. If Home Affairs finalises your parent’s permanent stage and you haven’t been added, you can’t transition through that application.
Your eligibility to be included depends on:
- Holding a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)
- Having a parent who applied for a temporary Partner visa
- Lodging your request before the permanent Partner visa is granted
Home Affairs will ask for proof that your parent holds a temporary Partner visa and that their permanent stage hasn’t been finalised yet.
If you aren’t added in time, you might have to look at other child visa options, such as:
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
- Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802)
- Adoption Visa (subclass 102)
- Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117)
- Carer Visa (subclass 836)
Each of these visas comes with its own requirements and process.
Differences for subclass 100 vs 801 additions
The main difference between being added to a Partner (subclass 100) visa and a Partner (subclass 801) visa is your location at the time of decision.
| Parent’s Permanent Visa | Where You Must Be | Key Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 100 (offshore permanent stage) | In or outside Australia | Location does not restrict inclusion |
| Subclass 801 (onshore permanent stage) | In Australia | You must be in Australia |
If your parent is moving to the subclass 801, you must stay in Australia when Home Affairs decides your inclusion.
If your parent is moving to the subclass 100, you can be in or outside Australia at decision time.
Pay attention to your location as the decision date approaches. Home Affairs will look at your situation at the time of decision, not when you submit the request.
Forms used to move towards the parent’s permanent visa
To move from Subclass 445 to permanent residence with your parent, you need to lodge:
- Form 1002 – Application by a subclass 445 dependent child for a permanent partner visa
You’ll also need to provide:
- Evidence your parent has a temporary Partner visa application or status
- Details about your sponsoring parent’s immigration status
- Confirmation the permanent Partner visa application is still being processed
Home Affairs uses this form to connect your case to your parent’s permanent Partner application.
If you’re under 18 and someone signs documents for you, Form Form 1229 may be needed to confirm consent. This is often required when a parent or legal guardian is giving permission for your visa process.
Submit everything before the permanent stage decision. Your eligibility is assessed as part of your parent’s permanent Partner visa application, not as a separate category.
When to Get Help
#Character issues, previous refusals, and criminal records can prevent you from applying for or being granted a Subclass 445 visa. Sometimes, you may only be able to apply for a Protection visa (subclass 866).
Character and past visa cancellations
Seek legal advice right away if Home Affairs has cancelled or refused any of your visas on character grounds.
If your visa was cancelled or refused on character grounds since your last arrival in Australia, you can’t apply for most other visas. In this case, you might only be able to apply for the Protection visa (subclass 866) if you meet strict criteria.
This restriction affects your ability to:
- Apply for a Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)
- Lodge a Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
- Lodge a Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802)
- Apply for another family visa like the Adoption Visa (subclass 102)
You must disclose all cancellations and refusals in your application. Not disclosing them can cause further problems and lead to another refusal.
| Issue | Impact on Your Options |
|---|---|
| Visa cancelled on character grounds | May restrict you to Protection visa (subclass 866) only |
| Visa refused on character grounds | May prevent new family visa applications |
| Non-disclosure of cancellation | Risk of further refusal |
Early advice lets you work out if you can lawfully apply for Subclass 445 or if you face legal barriers.
Prior refusals or complex histories
Get help if you’ve had visa refusals, bridging visas, or multiple applications across different subclasses.
Home Affairs checks your full immigration history. This includes previous applications for visas such as:
- Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117)
- Carer Visa (subclass 836)
- Child Visa (subclass 101 or 802)
- Adoption Visa (subclass 102)
A series of refusals can raise credibility issues. If your details about custody, consent, or parental responsibility differ between applications, it can damage your case.
Consent issues are common for dependent children. If one parent isn’t migrating, you may need Form Form 1229 or other proof of legal authority. Missing or inconsistent consent documents often lead to delays or refusals.
Seek advice if:
-
You’ve had a refusal for any Australian visa.
-
Your circumstances have changed since your last application.
-
There are court orders, custody disputes, or parental consent issues.
Complex backgrounds need a clear plan before you lodge Subclass 445.
Serious criminal history and likely outcomes
If you have a serious criminal record, get legal advice before applying.
Home Affairs looks at character closely. Serious offences make it much less likely your visa will be granted. Applicants with serious criminal records are often refused.
This affects not just Subclass 445 but also future applications for:
- Child Visa (subclass 101)
- Child Visa (subclass 802)
- Other permanent family visas
Be realistic about your risk.
| Criminal History Level | Likely Impact |
|---|---|
| Minor issues disclosed early | May require explanation |
| Serious criminal offences | Unlikely visa grant |
| Prior refusal on character grounds | Possible restriction to Protection visa (subclass 866) only |
Time passing isn’t enough to fix a serious record. You need a proper assessment before applying.
Extending Your Family Visa
#Keep your child’s identity details and family relationship records up to date with Home Affairs. Extensions or transitions to another child‑related visa depend on clear, consistent documentation about the child and their relationship to the sponsoring parent.
Ongoing identity and relationship checks
Home Affairs will recheck core details when you extend or move from a Dependent Child visa (subclass 445) to a permanent child visa like the Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101) or Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802).
Make sure the following information is accurate and matches across all applications:
- Child’s full legal name and any previous names
- Current passport details
- Date and place of birth
- Both parents’ details
- Evidence of the child’s dependency status
- Clear description of the child’s relationship to the primary applicant
If another person has parental responsibility, address consent issues with Form Form 1229.
Home Affairs will compare earlier records to new information. Any inconsistencies in identity or family relationships can slow down a decision or require more evidence.
Evidence you may need for extension or transition
When applying for a permanent visa, provide updated documents confirming identity and family ties.
Common visa pathways include:
| Visa Type | When It May Apply |
|---|---|
| Child Visa (subclass 101) | Child applying from outside Australia |
| Child Visa (subclass 802) | Child applying in Australia |
| Adoption Visa (subclass 102) | Child adopted by an Australian parent |
| Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117) | Child with no parents able to care for them |
| Carer Visa (subclass 836) | Relative providing ongoing care |
You might need:
- Certified copies of the child’s passport bio page
- Birth certificate showing parent names
- Adoption documents, if relevant
- Evidence showing the child remains dependent
- Proof of the relationship to the primary visa applicant
If there’s a non‑migrating parent, provide written consent as needed.
Submit documents as recorded in previous applications unless there’s been a lawful change.
Practical steps to keep status valid
Track key dates and make sure your child stays lawfully in Australia if you’re applying onshore.
Steps to follow:
-
Make sure passport details are up to date before you apply.
-
Double-check all biographical information matches previous records.
-
Update Home Affairs if your child’s circumstances change.
-
Prepare relationship documents early to avoid last-minute problems.
If planning to transition to a permanent child visa, check eligibility under the right subclass before your current status ends.
Keep copies of every document you submit. Clear records help reduce delays and let you respond quickly if Home Affairs asks for more information.
Your Rights After Approval
#Once Home Affairs grants the Subclass 445 visa, you have rights to stay in Australia while your parent’s permanent visa is processed. You must keep meeting health and character standards during your stay.
Work, study and travel entitlements
The Subclass 445 visa lets you remain in Australia while Home Affairs processes your parent’s permanent visa, such as:
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
- Child Visa (onshore) (subclass 802)
- Adoption Visa (subclass 102)
- Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117)
- Carer Visa (subclass 836)
You can live in Australia lawfully during this time. Your stay is only valid while your visa is in effect and you follow its conditions.
If you want to travel, check your visa is still valid before you leave and re-enter. The Australian Border Force manages entry, and you need a valid visa to return.
If you’re under 18 and want to travel without one or both parents, you may need consent using Form Form 1229. Home Affairs will look at parental responsibility in these cases.
| Right | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Stay in Australia | You can remain lawfully while linked permanent visas are processed |
| Travel | You must hold a valid visa at time of re-entry |
| Link to parent’s case | Your status depends on your parent’s eligible permanent visa application |
Health and character obligations
You must keep meeting Australia’s health standards after approval. Home Affairs only grants visas to applicants who meet minimum health requirements.
If your situation changes, Home Affairs can reassess your eligibility. Not meeting health requirements can affect your ability to stay in Australia.
Character requirements also apply:
- Applicants aged 16 and over must meet character criteria.
- Applicants aged 18 and over must sign an Australian values statement.
- You must keep meeting character requirements for your entire stay.
Home Affairs can refuse or cancel a visa if you don’t meet these standards. You’re responsible for following Australian laws at all times.
Other services (example: English classes)
After approval, you may be eligible for services available to lawful visa holders, depending on your situation. Eligibility can vary.
Some visa holders qualify for English language support programs. Check eligibility with the relevant government provider.
Access to services doesn’t replace your obligation to follow visa conditions. If you’re unsure, confirm your status with Home Affairs.
Sponsor and Applicant Requirements
#Strict rules apply for sponsorship and dependency to qualify for the Dependent Child visa (subclass 445). Home Affairs will assess the sponsor’s status, the child’s age and dependency, and proof that the parent holds or has applied for a Partner visa.
Who can sponsor and sponsor conditions
The sponsor must be the same person who sponsored or nominated the parent for their permanent Partner visa application. You can’t nominate a different sponsor for the child.
The sponsoring parent must hold one of these:
- Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309)
- Partner visa (subclass 820)
- Dependent Child visa (subclass 445)
You need to show the child depends on the parent who holds one of these visas. Home Affairs also considers the sponsor’s history, including any visa refusals or cancellations.
This visa connects directly to the parent’s permanent Partner visa pathway. It doesn’t replace other child-related visas such as:
| Visa | When It Applies |
|---|---|
| Child Visa (subclass 101) | Child of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen (offshore) |
| Child Visa (subclass 802) | Same as above, but applied for in Australia |
| Adoption Visa (subclass 102) | For children adopted outside Australia |
| Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117) | For orphaned children sponsored by relatives |
| Carer Visa (subclass 836) | For carers of relatives with long-term medical conditions |
If your situation fits one of these categories, you need to apply for the relevant visa.
Child eligibility rules (age, dependency)
You must show the child is a dependent child of the parent holding the temporary Partner visa.
Age and dependency rules:
- Under 18 years: considered dependent.
- 18 to under 25 years: must be financially dependent on the parent.
- Over 18 with a disability: must rely on the parent due to a physical or mental condition.
For children between 18 and 25, provide financial evidence of ongoing support. This could include proof of living arrangements and financial transfers.
Home Affairs will also look at:
- The child’s relationship to the visa-holding parent
- Where the child lives
- The nature of the relationship with the sponsoring parent
If one parent isn’t included in the application, you may need to provide Form Form 1229 to confirm consent for the child to migrate.
Evidence of the parent's visa and application status
You’ll need to show clear proof of the parent’s visa status. Home Affairs won’t assume eligibility without proper documentation.
Provide evidence that the parent:
- Holds a Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309),
- Holds a Partner visa (subclass 820), or
- Has applied for a permanent Partner visa.
Include either the parent’s visa grant notice or evidence confirming a lodged permanent Partner visa application.
Also, provide documents that confirm:
- The legal parent–child relationship
- The child’s dependency, if the child is over 18
- The sponsor’s identity and their connection to the permanent Partner visa application
Incomplete evidence slows down processing. The child’s application must clearly link to the parent’s visa record with Home Affairs.
Why Family Visas Get Denied
#Home Affairs refuses many family visa applications for preventable reasons. Most refusals come down to invalid lodgement, missing documents, unpaid fees, or character issues that weren’t handled properly.
Common application errors
You must lodge a complete and valid application through your ImmiAccount. Submitting an incomplete form or leaving mandatory fields blank can result in an invalid application.
The most frequent mistakes include:
- Not paying the correct visa application charge in A$
- Failing to include proof of payment
- Submitting the wrong or incomplete application form
- Omitting required consent forms such as Form Form 1229 where applicable
If Home Affairs can’t confirm payment, your application won’t be processed. An unpaid or incorrectly paid charge leads to non-processing.
These problems affect all child-related visas, not just the Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445).
| Visa Type | Risk of Invalid Application if Incomplete or Unpaid |
|---|---|
| Child Visa (subclass 101) | Yes |
| Child Visa (subclass 802) | Yes |
| Adoption Visa (subclass 102) | Yes |
| Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117) | Yes |
| Carer Visa (subclass 836) | Yes |
| Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) | Yes |
Lodging a subclass 445 application doesn’t guarantee approval. Validity comes first.
Missing or incorrect documents
Home Affairs wants certified copies of supporting documents. Sending originals instead of certified copies causes delays and increases the risk of refusal.
You must also provide police certificates for each country where the child or dependent lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. This is especially important for children aged 16 or older.
Common document problems include:
- No police certificates where required
- Missing character documents for applicants over 16
- Uncertified copies
- Incomplete identity documents
If you leave out required documents at lodgement, Home Affairs may consider the application invalid or refuse it for lack of evidence.
You’re responsible for making sure every required document is in your ImmiAccount before you submit.
Consequences of character-related cancellations
Character concerns have serious consequences. If a child aged 16 or over doesn’t provide required character documents, Home Affairs may refuse the visa.
A refusal based on character issues isn’t limited to one subclass. It can impact eligibility across related programs, including:
- Child Visa (subclass 101)
- Child Visa (subclass 802)
- Adoption Visa (subclass 102)
- Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117)
- Carer Visa (subclass 836)
If a visa is refused or cancelled for character reasons, future applications are likely to face closer scrutiny. Address character documentation early and provide full disclosure through your ImmiAccount to reduce the risk of refusal.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application feeDependent Child 445. Secondary 18+ $1,615; under 18 $810 | A$3,235 (approx $2,232 USD) |
Fees change; always verify on Home Affairs.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
What documents do I need to provide?
You must provide evidence of:
- Your relationship to the child
- The child’s dependency
- Any required consent using Form Form 1229, if applicable
Home Affairs might request additional documents.
How is Subclass 445 different from other child visas?
- Visa Type: Child Visa (subclass 101). Purpose: Permanent visa for children of Australian citizens or permanent residents. Location Requirement: Offshore
- Visa Type: Child Visa (subclass 802). Purpose: Permanent visa for eligible children in Australia. Location Requirement: Onshore
- Visa Type: Adoption Visa (subclass 102). Purpose: For adopted children. Location Requirement: Offshore
- Visa Type: Orphan Relative Visa (subclass 117). Purpose: For orphaned relatives. Location Requirement: Offshore
- Visa Type: Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445). Purpose: Temporary visa linked to a parent’s provisional partner visa. Location Requirement: Offshore
How do I check fees and processing times?
Home Affairs lists application charges in AUD (A$).
Applicants can check current fees and processing times using the Department of Home Affairs fee calculator and processing time tools.
What is the purpose of the Australia dependent child visa 445?
The visa allows a dependent child whose parent holds an Australian partner-related visa to apply to enter and remain in Australia temporarily while the parent's permanent partner visa application is processed; it is managed by the Department of Home Affairs and keeps family units together.
Which parent visas must the child be dependent on to be eligible?
The child must be dependent on a parent who holds a Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309), Partner visa (subclass 820), or another Dependent Child visa (subclass 445).
What are the age and dependency rules for the child?
Generally the child must be under 18, or if over 18 be financially dependent on the parent; in some contexts the child must be under 25 and dependent unless physically or mentally disabled.
What key documents should I include with a dependent child application?
Include identity documents (passport, national ID), passport-size photos, certified copies of identity and change-of-name documents, evidence of relationship and dependency (for example birth certificates), police certificates where required, and any medical examination reports to meet health requirements.
How do I submit the application and what forms are involved?
The process can involve completing and lodging the specific forms (for example Form 918 for the temporary subclass 445 and Form 1002 when applying for addition to a permanent partner visa), lodging via ImmiAccount where appropriate or posting to the Child and Other Family Processing Centre in Perth, and paying the application charge before posting if applying on paper.
How long does processing usually take and where can I check times?
A typical processing time indicated for dependent-child-445 under 'Standard' is about 3 to 6 months; use the visa processing time guide to verify current processing times and categories.
How much is the application charge for this visa?
The listed application charge is A$3,235 (approx US$2,232) as of the referenced date.
What rights does this visa give the child while it is held?
While holding this visa, the child may move to or stay in Australia until the parent's permanent partner visa decision, travel to and from Australia, work and study in Australia, and attend free English language classes provided by the Adult Migrant English Program if eligible.
Can a dependent child on subclass 445 be included in the parent's permanent partner visa application?
Yes — the Dependent Child (subclass 445) visa holder must apply to be added to their parent's permanent Partner visa application before the parent's application is decided; there are specific rules for inclusion to subclass 100 and subclass 801 applications (subclass 801 addition requires the child to be in Australia).
What are common reasons a dependent child application may not be processed or may be refused?
Common problems include not paying the correct application charge, failing to provide required police certificates (including for countries where 12 months or more was spent in the last 10 years), not providing certified copies, submitting an incomplete or incorrect form, sending originals instead of certified copies, and character-related cancellations or refusals which limit other visa options.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Every Australia visa case depends on your nationality, purpose, and timeline. Get a personalized plan with official sources and deadlines.
Get my Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445) plan