The Child Visa (Subclass 802) allows children who are already in Australia to live permanently with their parent(s) who are Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa supports family reunification and ensures children can grow up under the care and protection of their parents in Australia.
Key Features of the Subclass 802 Visa
Permanent Residency
- The child is granted permanent residency in Australia.
Healthcare Access
- Full access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Education & Work Rights
- The child can study and, if eligible, work in Australia without restrictions.
Pathway to Citizenship
- Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Travel Flexibility
- Free travel in and out of Australia for 5 years from the visa grant date.
Future Sponsorship
- Once eligible, the child may sponsor certain family members under Australia’s migration program.
Eligibility Criteria for the Subclass 802 Visa
For the Child
Age Requirement
- Under 18 years of age, or
- A full-time student aged 18–25 years, or
- Over 18 years and unable to work due to a disability.
Marital Status
- Must be unmarried, not engaged, and not in a de facto relationship.
Dependency
- Must be financially and emotionally dependent on the sponsoring parent.
Residence Requirement
- The child must be in Australia at the time of application and visa decision.
Health & Character
- Must meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
For the Parent (Sponsor)
Relationship
- Must be the child’s:
- Biological parent,
- Adoptive parent, or
- Step-parent with legal responsibility.
Residency Status
- Must be:
- An Australian citizen,
- An Australian permanent resident, or
- An eligible New Zealand citizen.
Sponsorship Obligations
- Provide accommodation, financial support, and overall care for the child.
What the Subclass 802 Visa Allows
- Live permanently in Australia.
- Study and work without restrictions.
- Access Medicare and public services.
- Travel freely for five years.
- Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible).
- Sponsor eligible relatives in the future.
Documents Required for Subclass 802 Visa
- Proof of age (birth certificate).
- Evidence of relationship with the sponsor (birth certificate, adoption documents).
- Passport and identity documents.
- Health examination results.
- Police clearance certificates (for children aged 16 and above).
- Financial dependency evidence (for children aged 18–25).
- Medical evidence for disability (if applicable).
- Written consent from all legal custodians (for children under 18).
An Assurance of Support may be requested in some cases.
Application Process
- Prepare Documents
Gather all identity, relationship, health, and dependency documents. - Lodge the Application
Submit the visa application while the child is in Australia. - Health & Character Checks
Complete required medical examinations and police checks. - Assessment
The Department of Home Affairs may request additional information. - Visa Grant
If approved, the child is granted permanent residency.
Processing Time (Indicative)
- 25% of applications: ~5 months
- 50% of applications: ~7 months
- 75% of applications: ~11 months
- 90% of applications: ~27 months
(Processing times vary depending on case complexity and document completeness.)
Benefits of the Subclass 802 Visa
- Permanent family reunification.
- Full access to healthcare and education.
- Long-term stability and security for the child.
- Clear pathway to Australian citizenship.
Ready to Apply?
The Child Visa (Subclass 802) is an important step in building a secure future for your child in Australia.
Contact RR Patel Overseas And Education Private Limited for expert guidance and personalised assistance throughout the Subclass 802 visa application process. Our team will help ensure your application is accurate, compliant, and handled with care.
