Child Visa (Subclass 802)
Child Visa (Subclass 802) is a permanent residency visa for eligible children who are in Australia at the time of application and decision. It allows a child to live, study, and remain in Australia permanently under the sponsorship of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen parent.
If the child is outside Australia, see the Child Visa (Subclass 101). For the full family migration framework, visit our Family Visas hub.
What is the Child Visa (Subclass 802)?
The Child Visa (Subclass 802) is designed for dependent children who are already in Australia and wish to remain permanently with their parent. This visa grants Australian permanent residency once approved.
The sponsoring parent must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The child must meet dependency, health, and character requirements under Australian migration law.
Key Benefits of the Child Visa (Subclass 802)
- Permanent residency for the child
- Live and study in Australia without restrictions
- Access to Medicare and public healthcare
- Pathway to Australian citizenship (when eligible)
- No visa renewal required once granted
- Child remains lawfully in Australia during processing (bridging visa applies)
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Child Visa (Subclass 802), the child must meet specific legal and dependency criteria at the time of application and decision.
Child requirements:
• Be under 18 years of age, or
• Be a full-time student aged 18–25 and financially dependent on the parent, or
• Be over 18 with a physical or mental condition that prevents independent living
• Be in Australia at time of application and decision
• Be unmarried and not in a de facto relationship
• Meet health and character requirements
Our Child Visa 802 Application Process
Step 1 – Confirm Eligibility
Confirm the child meets the relationship and dependency requirements, and that the sponsoring parent is eligible to sponsor under Australian migration law. Ensure the child is in Australia at the time of application and decision.
Step 2 – Prepare Documentation
Gather supporting documents, including proof of the parent–child relationship, identity documents, dependency evidence (if applicable), and custody or consent arrangements where relevant.
Step 3 – Lodge the Application
Lodge the Child Visa (Subclass 802) application while the child is in Australia, ensuring all information is accurate and complete. In most cases, a bridging visa is granted to allow the child to remain lawfully in Australia during processing.
Step 4 – Health, Character & Decision
The child will complete required health checks and, where applicable, character requirements. Once assessed, the Department of Home Affairs will make a decision on the application.
Related Child Visa Options
Not sure which child visa applies to your situation? Your options depend mainly on where the child is located when you apply. Explore the most relevant child visa pathways below.
Child Visa (Subclass 101)
(For children in Australia at time of application/decision.)
Family & Partner Visas
Explore family visa pathways for partners, parents and children, and understand which option best suits your circumstances.
Navigating child visa applications can be complex, particularly where dependency, custody, or documentation issues exist.
Our registered migration agent can assess your circumstances and guide you through the Child Visa (Subclass 101) process with clarity and care.
Child Visa (Subclass 802) – FAQs
Can my child stay in Australia while the 802 visa is processed?
Yes. Once a valid Child Visa (Subclass 802) application is lodged, a bridging visa is usually granted to allow the child to remain lawfully in Australia while the application is processed.
Does the Child Visa 802 lead to citizenship?
Yes. Once the child becomes a permanent resident, they may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency and other legal requirements.
What if my child turns 18 during processing?
Eligibility is assessed based on dependency at the time of application. Children who turn 18 during processing may still qualify if dependency criteria continue to be met.
How long does processing take?
Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances and application completeness. Current timeframes are published by the Department of Home Affairs.
Information is general in nature and not legal advice. Always check current requirements before applying. Services are provided by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518775) and conducted in accordance with the Migration Act 1958 and the Migration Agents Code of Conduct.
Need Help With Your Student Visa Application?
Every student’s situation is different. We provide migration assistance through a Registered Migration Agent in accordance with Australian migration law.
Related Student Visa Options
Explore our range of visa services designed to meet your needs and help you every step of the way.
Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)
This visa supports students by allowing a guardian to accompany them, ensuring their well-being and stability.
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
This visa encourages skill development by letting individuals undertake workplace training in Australia.
Information is general in nature and not legal advice. Always check current requirements before applying. Services are provided by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518775) and conducted in accordance with the Migration Act 1958 and the Migration Agents Code of Conduct.