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Short Description: Complete guide to Australia’s Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445): eligibility, documents, costs, process, work/study rights, travel, and PR pathway.

Last Verified On: 2026-03-15

Visa Snapshot

The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) is an Australian temporary family visa for a child who is a dependent child of a parent who:

• holds a temporary Partner visa, or
• has applied for the permanent stage of a qualifying onshore Partner visa pathway.

Its purpose is to make sure a child is not left behind in the migration process when the parent is already in Australia on the partner route.

In practical terms, this visa exists because Australia’s partner visa process often happens in stages:

• first, a temporary Partner visa
• later, a permanent Partner visa

If a child was not included earlier, Subclass 445 can provide a temporary bridge so the child can come to Australia and later be considered for the permanent stage with the parent, if eligible.

How it fits into Australia’s immigration system

This is part of Australia’s family migration framework, specifically tied to the partner visa system. It is not a visitor visa, not a student visa, and not a standalone permanent child migration route.

What kind of immigration status is it?

It is a visa under Australian migration law. Australia generally uses a digital visa system, so applicants usually do not receive a visa label in the passport. Status is held electronically and can be checked through official systems such as VEVO.

Official naming

• Long name: Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)
• Short code: Subclass 445
• Common shorthand: 445 visa
• Administrative context: temporary visa linked to the partner migration pathway

Important current-status note

This visa is not a general child visa for all families. It is narrowly designed for children tied to a parent’s eligible partner visa status. Many people confuse it with child visas such as Subclass 101 or 802, which are different routes.

2. Who should apply for this visa?

Ideal applicants

This visa is mainly for:

• Children/dependents who are dependent on a parent in Australia’s partner visa process
• Families where the parent already holds the temporary Partner visa and wants the child to join them
• Families where the child was not able to be included earlier and now needs a lawful route connected to the parent’s partner case

Not the right visa for most other categories

This visa is generally not for:

• tourists
• business visitors
• job seekers
• employees
• international students applying on their own
• digital nomads
• founders/entrepreneurs
• investors
• retirees
• religious workers
• artists/athletes
• transit passengers
• medical travelers
• diplomatic travelers

Those applicants should usually consider another visa class.

Who should not use this visa

Do not use Subclass 445 if:

• you are an adult child who is not a “dependent child” under Australian migration law
• your parent is not in the relevant partner visa pathway
• you qualify better under a direct Child visa route
• you are trying to enter Australia mainly for study, work, tourism, or business

Which visas may be more appropriate instead?

Depending on the situation, a different visa may be more suitable, such as:

• Child Visa (Subclass 101) – offshore permanent child visa
• Child Visa (Subclass 802) – onshore permanent child visa
• Visitor visa (Subclass 600) – short-term visits only
• Student visa (Subclass 500) – for genuine full-time study
• Dependent child in a different family migration route – if not linked to a partner visa case

Warning: Subclass 445 is a very specific family-route visa. Choosing the wrong subclass is a common cause of delay or refusal.

3. What is this visa used for?

Permitted purpose

The main lawful purpose is:

• allowing a dependent child to stay in or travel to Australia temporarily because their parent is in the qualifying partner visa process

This usually supports:

• family reunion
• temporary residence with the parent
• later inclusion in the parent’s permanent partner stage, if eligible

Activities generally consistent with this visa

Because it is a temporary resident visa for a child, the child may generally:

• live in Australia with the family
• attend school
• study, subject to any conditions
• travel in and out of Australia while the visa is valid
• remain connected to the parent’s partner case

Prohibited or non-core uses

This visa is not designed for:

• tourism as the main purpose
• employment as the main purpose
• business setup
• investor migration
• transit-only travel
• journalism assignments
• paid performance tours
• medical travel as the primary reason for entry
• sham family reunification arrangements

Grey areas and misunderstandings

Remote work

For younger children, this is usually irrelevant. For older dependent children, any work rights depend on the visa grant notice and conditions. Do not assume unrestricted work rights.

Study

Study is usually possible, but the exact conditions should be checked on the grant notice.

Long-term residence

This visa is temporary. It is not itself the final permanent status.

Marriage

This visa is not a route for marriage-based migration on its own. It exists because of the parent’s partner case.

4. Official visa classification and naming

Related categories people confuse it with

Subclass 101 vs 445

• 101 Child visa is a direct permanent offshore child visa.
• 445 is temporary and tied to the parent’s partner pathway.

Subclass 802 vs 445

• 802 Child visa is a direct permanent onshore child visa.
• 445 is a temporary bridge linked to the parent’s partner case.

Being “included” in a parent’s application vs Subclass 445

Some children can be included or added within the parent’s broader migration process. Others need a separate Subclass 445 application. The exact pathway depends on timing and the parent’s visa stage.

5. Eligibility criteria

Core official eligibility idea

The applicant must be a dependent child of a parent who is in the qualifying partner visa process.

The exact legal criteria should always be checked on the official Department of Home Affairs page and the legislative instrument in force at the time of application.

Eligibility matrix

Nationality rules

There is no general public rule that only certain nationalities can apply. However:

• biometrics requirements vary by nationality and location
• police certificate rules vary by country lived in
• health exam logistics vary by country
• document availability varies by civil registry system

Passport validity

Applicants should hold a valid passport. Australia generally expects:

• identity to be established clearly
• passport details to match the application
• enough passport validity for travel practicality

There is no universal published “6 months validity” rule for visa grant itself, but airlines and transit countries may impose practical constraints.

Age and dependency

A “dependent child” usually means a child who meets Australian migration law requirements. This may include:

• a younger child under the standard age threshold, or
• in some cases, an older child who remains dependent due to study, disability, or another qualifying basis

The exact dependency definition is legal and technical. Applicants should verify against current Home Affairs criteria.

Education, language, work experience, points, invitation, job offer

Not generally applicable for this visa:

• no points test
• no job offer required
• no work experience requirement
• no English test generally required
• no invitation round

Relationship proof

This is central. Applicants normally need to prove:

• identity of the child
• identity of the parent
• legal parent-child relationship
• dependency, where relevant
• custody/consent arrangements, if applicable

Health

The child may need health examinations depending on:

• age
• country history
• intended length of stay
• medical risk factors
• whether the Department requests medicals

Character

Character rules may apply, particularly for older children. Police certificates may be required depending on age and residence history.

Insurance

Australia does not publish this visa as a standard “must-buy private insurance before grant” category in the same way as some temporary visas, but practical healthcare arrangements matter. Check visa conditions, Medicare eligibility, and family arrangements after arrival.

Biometrics

Biometrics may be required depending on where the applicant applies and their nationality or processing location.

Intent requirements

This is not a “genuine temporary entrant” student-type test, but applicants still need to show they genuinely meet the family-based criteria and are not misusing the visa class.

Quotas/caps/ballots

No points rounds, lotteries, or public ballot system are generally associated with this visa.

Embassy-specific rules

Australia is centrally managed by the Department of Home Affairs, but practical steps can vary by region for:

• biometrics appointments
• panel physician availability
• local document certification expectations
• translation arrangements

6. Who is NOT eligible / common refusal triggers

Ineligibility factors

You may not qualify if:

• the parent is not in the relevant partner visa pathway
• the applicant is not legally a dependent child
• the child is married, engaged, or in a de facto relationship where dependency rules disqualify them
• relationship evidence is weak or contradictory
• custody or consent is missing
• health or character requirements are not met
• identity is not established
• the visa class is wrong for the family’s situation

Common refusal triggers

Relationship mismatch

• birth certificate details do not match
• adoption or guardianship documents are missing
• name changes are unexplained

Dependency not proven

Especially for older children: – no evidence of financial reliance – unclear study status – child appears independent

Custody/consent issues

• one parent is not accompanying and no consent is provided
• court orders restrict movement of the child
• no Form 1229 or equivalent consent evidence where needed

Incomplete application

• documents missing
• untranslated records
• unclear scans
• unsigned forms

Health/character problems

• requested medicals not completed
• police certificates missing when required
• serious character issues

Wrong visa category

Many applicants mistakenly file for 445 when they really need a direct child visa.

Common Mistake: Assuming every child of a partner visa holder automatically qualifies for Subclass 445. The timing and legal structure matter.

7. Benefits of this visa

Main benefits

• allows family unity during the parent’s partner migration process
• gives the child lawful status in Australia
• usually allows multiple travel while valid
• can support school attendance and family life in Australia
• creates a bridge to possible inclusion in the parent’s permanent partner stage

Family benefits

• keeps child and parent together
• avoids some of the disruption of waiting offshore
• can simplify family migration planning where the child was not already part of the earlier stage

PR-related benefit

This visa does not itself give permanent residence, but it can be an important step toward permanent status through the parent’s partner pathway.

8. Limitations and restrictions

Key limitations

• temporary, not permanent
• only for a narrow class of applicants
• dependent on the parent’s partner visa pathway
• no independent PR by simply holding Subclass 445
• cannot be used as a general family visit or study workaround

Possible conditions

Always check the grant notice for conditions relating to:

• work
• study
• travel
• reporting

Sponsor dependence

The visa’s usefulness depends heavily on the parent’s ongoing immigration status and progression.

No public “extension” route in the ordinary sense

This visa is not meant to be renewed repeatedly like some temporary visas. The expected next step is usually connection to the parent’s permanent stage.

9. Duration, validity, entries, and stay rules

Validity

Subclass 445 is a temporary visa. Officially, it is intended to allow the child to remain in Australia:

• until a decision is made on the parent’s permanent Partner visa application, or
• until the visa otherwise ceases or is cancelled under law

Entries

This visa is generally granted with multiple travel while valid.

When the clock starts

The effective date and travel facility details are set out in the visa grant notice.

Stay calculation

Unlike short-stay visitor visas, this is not normally framed as “3 months per entry.” It is a temporary residence-style visa linked to the family migration process.

Overstay consequences

If the visa ends and no further lawful status exists:

• the child may become unlawful
• future visas can be affected
• exclusion periods or other complications may arise

Bridging issues

If applying from within Australia or transitioning within the family migration system, bridging visa rules may sometimes become relevant. These are highly case-specific and should be checked directly in ImmiAccount and grant notices.

10. Complete document checklist

A. Core documents

B. Identity/travel documents

• current passport biodata page
• previous passports if relevant
• national ID card if available
• birth certificate
• passport-size photographs if requested

Common mistakes: – blurry scans – expired passport with no explanation – missing pages for amended identity details

C. Financial documents

This visa does not operate like a standard funds-threshold visa, but financial evidence may still help show dependency and living arrangements, especially for older dependent children.

Possible evidence: – bank statements – money transfer records – proof parent pays tuition/living costs – affidavits or declarations if appropriate

D. Employment/business documents

Usually not central. If the child is older and dependency is being assessed, employment documents may be relevant to show the child is not financially independent or to explain limited work.

E. Education documents

Important for older dependent children: – school enrollment letters – university enrollment – attendance records – tuition payment receipts

F. Relationship/family documents

This is one of the most important sections:

• full birth certificate naming parent(s)
• adoption papers, if applicable
• family register, if applicable
• custody orders
• parental consent documents
• evidence of dependency
• evidence child lives with or is supported by the parent

G. Accommodation/travel documents

Not always central, but may include: – Australian address where the child will live – evidence parent can accommodate the child – travel plans if offshore

H. Sponsor/invitation documents

This is not a typical invitation visa, but supporting documents from the parent may include: – parent’s passport – parent’s visa grant notice – parent’s relationship visa application reference – letter explaining family circumstances

I. Health/insurance documents

• health exam referral and results, if requested
• vaccination or medical records only if specifically relevant
• insurance details if used for practical healthcare planning

J. Country-specific extras

Depending on the country, applicants may need: – military-related records – civil registry extracts – national family book records – alternate name spellings certificates – exit permission or guardianship confirmations

K. Minor/dependent-specific documents

• parental consent
• Form 1229, where applicable
• non-accompanying parent ID
• court orders
• school letters
• dependency evidence
• best interests of the child evidence

L. Translation / apostille / notarization needs

Documents not in English usually need English translation. Australia generally accepts translations done according to official requirements.

Important: – do not assume apostille is always required – notarization rules vary by document type and where issued – if a translator must be accredited or qualified, follow Home Affairs guidance

M. Photo specifications

If photos are required: – use current official Australian photo standards – recent photo – clear face, plain background – no heavy edits

Pro Tip: Upload one clean PDF per evidence topic instead of dozens of random files. For example: “Child_Birth_Certificate_and_Translation.pdf”.

11. Financial requirements

Is there a fixed minimum fund requirement?

No widely published fixed maintenance threshold is typically presented for Subclass 445 in the same way as visitor or student visas.

However, financial evidence can still matter in practice for:

• proving dependency
• showing family support arrangements
• demonstrating the child’s care and maintenance

Who can support the applicant?

Usually: – the parent linked to the partner visa – in some cases, the family household may provide support evidence

Acceptable proof

• bank statements
• salary slips of parent
• employment letters of parent
• rental/household evidence
• proof school fees are being paid
• transfer records showing ongoing support

Hidden costs

Even without a strict funds threshold, families should budget for:

• visa application charge
• medical exams
• police certificates if required
• translations
• passport renewal
• biometrics travel
• flights
• schooling costs
• settlement costs in Australia

12. Fees and total cost

Application fee

Visa application charges change periodically. For this visa, applicants should check the latest official fee page before applying.

Other likely costs

Warning: Australian visa fees can change without much notice. Always verify the fee immediately before payment.

13. Step-by-step application process

1. Confirm the correct visa

Check that: – the child is a dependent child under current law – the parent is in the right partner visa pathway – Subclass 445 is the correct route, not Subclass 101 or 802

2. Gather documents

Collect: – identity – relationship – dependency – custody/consent – parent’s partner visa evidence

3. Create account / complete form

Use ImmiAccount through the Department of Home Affairs.

4. Pay fees

Pay the visa application charge online through the official portal.

5. Book biometrics/interview if needed

If instructed: – biometrics appointment – health exams – police certificates – any interview or further checks

6. Submit application

Submit online unless the Department specifically requires another route.

7. Upload documents

Upload all supporting evidence in clear, labelled files.

8. Medicals/police checks if needed

Do these only when required or as instructed by the Department.

9. Track application

Monitor status in ImmiAccount.

10. Respond to additional requests

If the Department requests more evidence, respond fully and on time.

11. Decision

You will receive a written decision.

12. Visa issuance

If granted, the visa is usually electronic. Review the grant notice carefully.

13. Arrival steps

Travel with: – valid passport – copy of grant notice – key family and custody documents

14. Post-arrival registration

Australia does not usually have a universal local foreigner registration system like some countries, but practical post-arrival steps still matter.

15. Residence/permit activation

No separate BRP-style card system generally applies. Status is digital.

14. Processing time

Official standard times

Processing times can vary significantly. Applicants should check the official Home Affairs processing time tool if available for this subclass or related family visa category.

What affects timing

• completeness of documents
• dependency complexity
• custody issues
• health processing
• character checks
• nationality and country of residence
• panel physician delays
• requests for more information
• parent’s underlying partner visa status

Priority options

No general public premium processing option is commonly advertised for this visa.

Practical expectation

Family visas can take time. Applicants should apply as early as reasonably possible once eligible and once the correct pathway is confirmed.

15. Biometrics, interview, medical, and police checks

Biometrics

May be required depending on: – nationality – country of application – operational requirements

Interview

An interview is not always required. If one is requested, it may focus on: – family relationship – who has custody – dependency – travel plans – consistency of the application

Medical

Medical exams may be requested. These must be done with an approved panel physician where required.

Police checks

For minors, police checks are often not relevant, but for older children they may be requested depending on age and residence history.

Exemptions

Children under certain age thresholds may not need police certificates. Exact rules depend on current Home Affairs instructions.

16. Approval rates / refusal patterns / practical reality

Official approval data

Public, subclass-specific approval-rate data is not always readily published in a simple applicant-facing format. If no official current approval percentage is publicly available, applicants should not rely on unofficial estimates.

Practical refusal patterns

Based on official criteria, refusals often involve:

• failure to show the child fits the legal definition of dependent child
• parent not in the qualifying partner pathway
• insufficient custody/consent evidence
• unresolved identity issues
• missing health/character steps
• poor document organization causing delays and doubts

17. How to strengthen the application legally

Strong legal strategies

1. Prove the family link clearly

Use: – full birth certificate – passport records – adoption orders if applicable – court documents for custody if relevant

2. Explain dependency carefully

For older children, include: – enrollment letters – living expense support proof – bank transfer records – statement explaining daily dependence on parent

3. Address custody head-on

If one parent is not traveling: – provide formal consent – provide custody orders – explain who has legal authority

4. Organize evidence logically

Group documents into: – identity – relationship – dependency – parental status – custody/consent

5. Explain anomalies

If there are: – large bank deposits – different spellings of names – delayed birth registration – changed passports – adoption or remarriage issues

include a short written explanation with supporting records.

6. Use clear file names

This reduces officer confusion and requests for more information.

7. Apply with complete, translated documents

Poor translation is a major avoidable problem.

18. Insider tips, practical hacks, and smart applicant strategies

Legal Tips and Common Applicant Strategies

Apply after confirming the parent’s exact visa stage

Families often waste time because they assume the parent’s visa stage automatically supports a 445 application. Confirm the parent’s current status first.

Build a dependency packet for older children

If the child is not a young minor, include: – proof of study – proof parent pays costs – explanation of why the child is still dependent

Put custody evidence near the front

If the child is under 18 and one parent is absent, make this visible immediately. It is one of the first things a case officer may look for.

Use a one-page evidence index

List every file uploaded and what it proves.

Explain old refusals honestly

If the child or family had earlier visa refusals: – disclose them – explain what has changed – provide corrected evidence

Don’t over-contact the Department

Contact Home Affairs only when: – there is a major change – documents were specifically requested – there is urgent compassionate information – you need to notify passport changes or family changes

Front-load translations

Do not upload original-language civil records first and wait to translate later unless specifically allowed. That often causes delays.

19. Cover letter / statement of purpose guidance

Is a cover letter required?

Not always, but it is often helpful.

When it is especially useful

• child is older and dependency needs explanation
• custody is complex
• names differ across documents
• adoption/separation/divorce history exists
• application timing needs explanation

Suggested structure

1. who the child is
2. who the parent is
3. parent’s visa status
4. why Subclass 445 applies
5. summary of dependency
6. custody/consent explanation
7. list of attached evidence
8. request for favorable consideration

What not to say

• do not exaggerate hardship without evidence
• do not give legal conclusions you cannot support
• do not hide prior refusals or family complications

20. Sponsor / inviter guidance

Is there a sponsor?

This is not a classic employer-sponsored visa. The relevant support person is usually the parent connected to the partner visa pathway.

What the parent should provide

• passport
• visa grant notice or application details
• evidence of residence in Australia
• statement of support
• evidence of care arrangements
• financial support evidence if dependency is in issue

Common sponsor-side mistakes

• failing to upload their own visa evidence
• not explaining where the child will live
• not addressing the non-migrating parent’s consent
• assuming family relationship is “obvious” without documents

21. Dependents, spouse, partner, and children

Whether dependents are allowed

This visa is itself for the dependent child. It is not a family bundle visa for the child’s own dependents.

Who qualifies as the child

A child must meet the legal definition of dependent child under migration law. This can involve age, marital status, and dependency tests.

Proof required

• birth/adoption records
• parent’s visa link
• dependency evidence
• marital status evidence if relevant
• school/financial records for older children

Custody/consent issues

For minors: – consent from non-accompanying parent may be required – court orders may override or replace consent – best interests of the child are relevant

Same-sex parents

Australian immigration law generally recognizes same-sex parents/partners where legal parentage and required evidence are established.

22. Work rights, study rights, and business activity rules

Work rights

Because this visa is for dependent children, work is not the main purpose. For older dependent children:

• check the grant notice for visa conditions
• do not assume unrestricted work rights without reading the grant notice

Study rights

Study is generally consistent with the purpose of the visa.

Business activity

Not applicable as a main purpose.

Remote work / side income

For older children, any income-earning activity should be checked against visa conditions and age/work law rules in Australia.

Volunteering

Genuine unpaid volunteering is usually less problematic than paid work, but it should still not conflict with visa conditions or labor laws.

23. Travel rules and border entry issues

Visa grant is not the same as guaranteed entry

Even with a granted visa, final entry is still subject to Australian border clearance.

Documents to carry

Carry: – passport – visa grant notice – copy of parent’s visa details – birth certificate – custody/consent documents if relevant – contact details for parent in Australia

Return/onward ticket

Not usually the core issue for this visa, but travel planning should still be sensible.

New passport after visa grant

If the child gets a new passport, update the passport details with Home Affairs so the electronic visa remains properly linked.

Dual nationals

Travel should be consistent with the passport details recorded in the visa system. Check any update requirements before boarding.

24. Extension, renewal, switching, and conversion

Can it be extended?

Not in the normal “renewal” sense usually seen with temporary visas.

What is the next step?

The main pathway is for the child to be considered in relation to the parent’s permanent Partner visa stage, if eligible.

Switching to another visa

Possible in some circumstances, but highly case-specific. The better route depends on: – age – dependency – whether the child qualifies for a Child visa – whether the parent’s partner pathway is still active

Bridging issues

If a further application is made in Australia, bridging visas may become relevant. Check individual circumstances carefully.

25. Permanent residency and citizenship pathway

Does Subclass 445 itself give PR?

No.

Does it lead indirectly to PR?

Potentially yes. Its main value is that it can place the child in a position to be considered for permanent residence through the parent’s permanent partner stage.

Citizenship path

There is no direct citizenship route from Subclass 445 alone. The child would first need to become a permanent resident and later meet citizenship rules.

When this visa does not help PR

If: – the parent’s permanent partner stage fails – the child no longer meets dependent child criteria – the family does not complete the correct next-step process

26. Taxes, compliance, and legal obligations

Tax

For minor children, tax is usually not a major visa issue. For older children with income: – Australian tax rules may apply – visa permission to work must still exist

Compliance obligations

• obey visa conditions
• maintain valid status
• update passport details
• respond to Department requests
• do not work if prohibited by visa conditions
• do not provide false information

Overstay consequences

Overstaying can seriously affect future visas.

27. Country-specific or nationality-specific exceptions

General position

No broad nationality-based eligibility exception is commonly published for Subclass 445 itself.

What does vary by nationality or location?

• biometrics requirements
• police certificate format
• medical exam access
• civil document availability
• translation expectations
• local appointment systems

28. Special cases and edge cases

Minors

Core applicant group for this visa. Custody and best-interests evidence are critical.

Divorced/separated parents

Provide: – court orders – notarized consent if appropriate – evidence of legal custody

Adopted children

Adoption documents must clearly establish legal parent-child relationship and compliance with Australian recognition standards.

Same-sex spouses/partners

Usually acceptable if the underlying parent partner pathway and legal parentage are properly evidenced.

Stateless persons

Possible, but identity documentation becomes more complex. Official guidance should be checked carefully.

Refugees

Case-specific. Family migration interaction may be more complex.

Dual nationals

Make sure all identity records are aligned.

Prior refusals

Must be declared honestly.

Expired passport but valid visa

Because Australia uses electronic visas, passport updates are very important. A valid visa linked to an old passport may still need passport-detail updates before travel.

Change of name

Provide name-change certificate, marriage certificate, court order, or other legal evidence.

Gender marker mismatch

If documents differ, include a brief explanation and legal record where available.

29. Common myths and mistakes

Myth vs fact table

30. Refusal, appeal, administrative review, and reapplication

What happens after refusal?

The applicant receives a refusal notice explaining: – reasons – legal basis – whether review rights exist – review deadline, if any

Administrative review

Review rights depend on: – where the application was made – who applied – migration law settings at the time – whether the decision is reviewable

If review is available, it may be through the Administrative Review Tribunal framework in force at the time.

Reapplication

A fresh application may be possible if: – the refusal reasons can be fixed – the applicant still qualifies – no bars prevent reapplication

No refund rule

Visa application charges are usually not refunded after refusal unless a specific exception applies.

Best response after refusal

1. read the refusal carefully
2. identify each legal reason
3. gather missing evidence
4. check whether review or reapplication is better
5. act within deadlines

31. Arrival in Australia: what happens next?

At immigration clearance

The child may be asked about: – who they will live with – parent’s details – school arrangements – custody/consent if traveling without both parents

After arrival

Practical steps may include: – settling into the family home – school enrollment – checking Medicare eligibility if applicable through family circumstances – updating the Department if passport or address changes later – keeping copies of visa grant records

First 30 days practical checklist

• confirm digital visa details
• store grant notice safely
• organize school records
• confirm healthcare arrangements
• keep parent’s contact and visa details handy

32. Real-world timeline examples

Scenario 1: Minor child overseas joining parent on temporary partner visa

• Week 1–3: confirm eligibility, gather birth/custody documents
• Week 4: submit online application
• Week 5–8: biometrics/medical if requested
• Month 2–6+: processing continues
• After grant: child travels to Australia

Scenario 2: Older dependent child in full-time study

• Week 1–4: gather dependency evidence and school records
• Week 5: submit
• Month 2–7+: possible request for more information because dependency is more closely examined
• After grant: child travels or remains in Australia per grant conditions

Scenario 3: Child of separated parents

• Week 1–6: obtain custody order and consent documentation
• Week 7: submit with a detailed explanation letter
• Month 2–8+: processing may take longer due to legal custody review

33. Ideal document pack structure

Recommended file order

1. cover letter / evidence index
2. child passport
3. child birth certificate
4. parent passport
5. parent visa grant notice / application evidence
6. dependency evidence
7. custody/consent documents
8. education records
9. medical/police documents if requested
10. translations

Naming convention

Use clear names like: – 01_Cover_Letter_and_Index.pdf – 02_Child_Passport.pdf – 03_Birth_Certificate_and_Translation.pdf – 04_Parent_445_Linked_Partner_Visa_Evidence.pdf

Scan quality tips

• color scans where possible
• full page visible
• no cut-off corners
• readable stamps and seals
• one upright orientation

34. Exact checklists

Pre-application checklist

• confirm Subclass 445 is the correct visa
• confirm parent’s partner visa stage
• confirm child meets dependent child definition
• gather identity documents
• gather relationship documents
• gather custody/consent documents
• prepare translations
• prepare dependency evidence if child is older

Submission-day checklist

• all questions answered consistently
• names match passports and certificates
• all required files uploaded
• fee ready
• contact details correct
• declarations reviewed before submission

Biometrics/interview-day checklist

• passport
• appointment confirmation
• request letter
• any supporting IDs
• arrive early
• answer honestly and briefly

Arrival checklist

• passport
• grant notice copy
• birth certificate copy
• custody/consent documents
• parent’s contact details in Australia

Extension/renewal checklist

Not applicable in the standard sense for this visa. Instead, verify the child’s inclusion in the next permanent stage or another lawful pathway.

Refusal recovery checklist

• read refusal notice in full
• identify each refusal reason
• check review rights and deadline
• gather corrective evidence
• decide between review and reapplication
• seek professional help if the case is complex

35. FAQs

1. Is Subclass 445 a permanent visa?

No. It is a temporary visa.

2. Who is the main target applicant?

A dependent child of a parent in the relevant partner visa pathway.

3. Can any child of a partner visa holder apply?

No. The child must meet the legal criteria.

4. Is there an age limit?

There are dependency-related age rules under migration law. Check the current legal definition of dependent child.

5. Can an adult child apply?

Sometimes only if they still qualify as a dependent child under the law. It is not automatic.

6. Does the child need to be unmarried?

Usually yes, if relying on dependent child status.

7. Can the child study in Australia?

Generally yes, subject to any visa conditions.

8. Can the child work in Australia?

Check the visa grant notice. Do not assume unrestricted work rights.

9. Is IELTS required?

Generally no.

10. Is there a points test?

No.

11. Does the parent need a job offer?

No.

12. Is a sponsor required?

The key linkage is the parent’s partner visa status, not employer sponsorship.

13. Is a medical exam mandatory?

It may be required depending on circumstances and Department instructions.

14. Are police certificates required?

Possibly for older children, depending on age and residence history.

15. Can the child apply offshore?

Check the current location rules on the official visa page. Do not assume onshore/offshore flexibility without verifying current rules.

16. Can the child apply onshore?

Check the current official rules, as location requirements can be technical.

17. What if one parent does not consent?

The application may fail unless there is a court order or other legal authority allowing migration.

18. What if the birth certificate is missing?

Alternative identity and relationship evidence may sometimes be used, but this can complicate the case significantly.

19. What if names are spelled differently across documents?

Provide an explanation and legal supporting records.

20. What if the parent’s permanent partner stage is refused?

The child’s longer-term pathway may be affected significantly.

21. Can the child be added later to the parent’s permanent stage?

That is one of the key reasons this visa exists, subject to eligibility.

22. Can the fee be refunded if refused?

Usually no.

23. Is there priority processing?

No general public priority option is commonly advertised.

24. Can the child travel in and out of Australia?

Usually yes while the visa remains valid and has travel facility, but always check the grant notice.

25. Does this visa lead straight to citizenship?

No.

26. Is this the same as Child Visa 101?

No. 101 is a different child migration visa.

27. Is this the same as Child Visa 802?

No. 802 is also a different route.

28. Can a stepchild apply?

Possibly, depending on whether they meet the legal definition and the relationship is recognized under migration law. Check current official guidance.

29. Can an adopted child apply?

Possibly, if the adoption and parent-child relationship meet legal requirements.

30. Is a cover letter necessary?

Not always, but often very helpful in complex family situations.

36. Official sources and verification

Below are official sources relevant to this visa and closely linked Australian immigration guidance.

• Department of Home Affairs: Dependent Child visa (subclass 445)
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/dependent-child-445

• Department of Home Affairs: Child visa overview
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/child-101

• Department of Home Affairs: Child visa (subclass 802)
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/child-802

• Department of Home Affairs: Partner visas overview
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/partner-onshore

• Department of Home Affairs: Visa pricing estimator / fees
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/visa-pricing-estimator

• Department of Home Affairs: ImmiAccount
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/applying-online-or-on-paper/online

• Department of Home Affairs: Biometrics
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/biometrics

• Department of Home Affairs: Health examinations
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/health

• Department of Home Affairs: Character requirements
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/character

• Department of Home Affairs: Form 1229 consent to grant an Australian visa to a child under the age of 18 years
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/form-listing/forms/1229.pdf

• Department of Home Affairs: VEVO
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions/check-conditions-online

• Federal Register of Legislation: Migration Regulations 1994
  https://www.legislation.gov.au/

37. Final verdict

The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) is best for a child who genuinely depends on a parent already in Australia’s qualifying partner visa process and needs a temporary legal pathway to join or remain with that parent before the permanent stage is finalized.

Biggest benefits

• keeps families together
• supports the child’s lawful stay in Australia
• can create a bridge toward permanent residence through the parent’s partner pathway

Biggest risks

• applying under the wrong subclass
• failing to prove dependency for older children
• missing custody/consent evidence
• assuming the visa is permanent or automatically leads to PR

Top preparation advice

• confirm the parent’s exact partner visa status first
• prove the legal parent-child relationship cleanly
• front-load custody and consent evidence
• explain dependency in detail for older children
• use only clear, translated, well-labeled documents

When to consider another visa

Consider another route if: – the child does not qualify as a dependent child – the parent is not in the correct partner visa pathway – a direct Child visa (101 or 802) is more appropriate – the real purpose is study, tourism, or another unrelated reason

Information gaps or items to verify before applying

• exact current visa application charge for Subclass 445
• current official processing times for this subclass
• current onshore/offshore application and decision location rules
• current legal definition of “dependent child” in force on the application date
• whether biometrics are required for the applicant’s nationality and application location
• whether police certificates are needed based on the child’s age and residence history
• whether any visa conditions affecting work or study will apply in the specific grant
• whether the child can be included directly in the parent’s permanent partner stage or needs a separate process
• whether custody/consent documentation from the child’s country needs special legalization or certified translation
• whether any recent policy or legislative changes affect partner-linked child migration routes