Dependent Child Visa for Australia – Eligibility, Requirements & Application Guide

Q: What documents do I need to prove my child’s dependency?

You will need to provide proof of cohabitation , such as rental agreements, joint bank statements, and affidavits .

A dependent child is under 18, or up to 23 if financially reliant or disabled, and may be included in Australian visa applications.

Overview

A Dependent Child is a person who relies on their parent(s) for financial support and is under the age of 18. In the context of Australian visa applications, a dependent child can be included in a family visa application, provided they meet certain criteria. This page will explain the requirements and processes for dependent children in visa applications.

What Is a Dependent Child?

A Dependent Child is a person under the age of 18 who relies on their parent(s) for financial support. In the context of Australian immigration, a dependent child can be included in a range of visa applications.

This includes partner visas, parent visas, and other family-based or skilled migration pathways where the child meets the dependency criteria. A dependent child may also be eligible for visas if they are under 23 and financially dependent on their parent(s), or if they are incapacitated due to medical conditions.

Why It Matters

The Dependent Child definition is crucial when applying for family-based Australian visas. It helps to determine who can be included in the application for migration purposes. Ensuring a child qualifies as a dependent is necessary to avoid any delays in the visa application process.

Who It Applies To

The Dependent Child status is relevant to the following visa categories:

Partner Visas: Dependent children can be included in applications for subclass 820, 801, and other partner visas.

Parent Visas: Children under 18 years old can be included in parent visa applications.

Other Family-Based Visas: Dependent children can be included in various family migration pathways.

Skilled Migration Visas: Dependent children may be included in Subclass 189, 190, 491, and other skilled migration visas.

Other Temporary and Permanent Visa Holders: Dependent children of all visa holders can be included, provided the criteria are met.

Risks / Exemptions / Errors

Be aware of these common mistakes when submitting your dependent child’s documents:

Incorrect Age: If the child is over 18, they might not be eligible as a dependent child for certain visa subclasses.

Missing Documents: Ensure all required financial and identity documents are submitted for both the child and parent(s).

Outdated Proof of Dependency: Make sure documents such as financial support records are up to date.

Required Documents
Evidence

To prove the dependent child’s status, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

Proof of Dependency: Bank statements, financial support records, and joint statements from the parents.

Birth Certificate: A copy of the child’s birth certificate to prove their relationship to the parent.

Parent’s Financial Documents: Evidence that the parent(s) provide financial support to the child.

Health and Police Checks: Depending on the visa type, the child may need to undergo health and police checks.

❓ FAQ's

How old must my child be to apply for a dependent child visa?

The child must be under 18 years old to be considered a dependent.

Can I include my child in my Partner Visa application?

Yes, if your child is under 18 and financially dependent, they can be included in the application.

What documents do I need to prove my child’s dependency?

You will need to provide proof of cohabitation, such as rental agreements, joint bank statements, and affidavits.

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.