Key Takeaways:
- The Subclass 445 visa allows dependent children to stay in Australia while a permanent partner visa is processed.
- Eligible children must be sponsored by the same person and meet specific age and dependency criteria.
- Required documents include a valid passport, application form, payment proof, photos, relationship evidence, and if applicable, financial support and medical certificates.
What is the Australia Dependent Child Visa Subclass 445?
If you’ve applied for a permanent partner visa and have a dependent child, the Subclass 445 visa may be pivotal for your family’s stay in Australia. This visa is issued temporarily, allowing your child to remain in Australia until a final decision is made on your partner visa application.
Eligibility Criteria for the Subclass 445 Visa
Your child can apply for the Subclass 445 visa if they:
- Are sponsored by the same person who sponsored you for the partner visa.
- You hold one of the following:
- A partner visa (subclass 309).
- A permanent partner visa (subclass 820).
- A dependent child visa (subclass 445).
Importantly, if your child is in Australia at the time of application, they must not hold a visa with a “no further stay” condition. This condition restricts their ability to extend their stay or apply for another visa.
Who is Considered a Dependent Child in Australia?
For the purposes of the Subclass 445 visa, your child is considered dependent if they are:
- Under 18 years of age.
- Over 18 years but financially dependent on you due to circumstances such as being a full-time student or having a disability that prevents them from working.
What Documents Are Needed for the Australia Dependent Child Visa?
Submitting a complete and accurate application is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive list of documents your child will need:
- Valid Passport: A current passport at the time of application.
- Visa Application Form 918: Completed in English.
- Proof of Payment: Evidence that the application fee has been paid.
- Photographs: Four passport-size photos with a neutral background.
- Evidence of Familial Relationship: Acceptable documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, adoption papers, or an official family book.
- Proof of Good Character: For children over 16, this includes form 80 and national police certificates from the past 12 months.
- Evidence of Financial Support: Necessary if the child is over 18 and financially dependent.
- Proof of Disability: A medical certificate if the child has a disability.
- Parental Consent: Completed form 1229, a statutory declaration, or a court order if the child is under 18.
- Documents for Dependents Under 18: If your child has a child of their own, travel documents and proof of relationship documents are needed.
Sponsorship Documents
The sponsor must provide a copy of their residence status and may need to submit copies of their identity documents to confirm their eligibility.
How Do You Apply for a Subclass 445 Visa?
The process for applying for an Australia Dependent Child Visa is straightforward but needs careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Pay the Visa Fee
Before the application can be submitted, the visa application fee of AUD 2,710 must be paid through ImmiAccount. Additional fees apply for extra applicants. The transaction must be completed in one go to validate the application.
Step 2: Prepare the Documents
After the fee payment, gather all necessary documents. Civil status documents such as birth certificates and marriage licenses need verification by an authorized person.
Learn more about document verification from the official Department of Home Affairs website.
Step 3: Submit the Application
The Subclass 445 visa application must be submitted by post or courier. There are specific addresses for the Child and Other Family Processing Centres where applications are sent. If your child is outside Australia, send the application to the nearest Australian office.
How Much Does the Subclass 445 Visa Cost?
As of 2023, the application fee for a Subclass 445 visa is AUD 2,710. Additional applicants will incur extra charges.
How Long Does it Take to Process the Subclass 445 Visa?
The processing time for the Subclass 445 visa ranges from 14 to 19 months. However, it might take longer depending on your situation and the completeness of your application.
Can a Dependent Child Work in Australia?
Yes, children holding a valid Subclass 445 visa are allowed to work in Australia during their stay.
How Long Does the Subclass 445 Visa Last?
The Subclass 445 visa is temporary and remains valid until a final decision is made on your permanent partner visa application.
COVID-19 Concessions for Subclass 445 Visa
In light of the pandemic, beginning in February 2021, the Australian government implemented a COVID concession period. During this period, 445 visa applicants who applied from outside Australia may now be allowed to be in Australia at the time the visa is granted.
Can I Help My Child with Their Visa Application?
Yes, in some cases, you can apply on behalf of your child or assist them with the application. To appoint you as a correspondent, the child must complete form 956a and include it with their application.
Applying for a visa can seem daunting, but with accurate information and careful preparation, the process becomes more manageable. For more detailed guidance, refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website where you can find official forms, comprehensive checklists, and the latest updates.
By meticulously following the outlined steps and ensuring that all documentation is complete and verified, you can significantly enhance the likelihood of a positive outcome for your child’s visa application.
Learn Today:
Glossary for Australia Dependent Child Visa Subclass 445
- Subclass 445 Visa: A temporary visa allowing dependent children of individuals applying for a permanent partner visa to stay in Australia until a final decision is made on the partner visa application.
Dependent Child: For the purposes of the Subclass 445 visa, a child who is under 18 years old or over 18 but financially dependent due to being a full-time student or having a disability preventing them from working.
Sponsorship: The process by which an individual (usually the partner visa holder) supports the visa application of a dependent child, demonstrating a relationship and committing to provide financial support.
Proof of Good Character: Documentation (e.g., form 80, national police certificates) required to demonstrate that an applicant, particularly those over 16, has no criminal record or history that would disqualify them from obtaining a visa.
COVID-19 Concessions: Special provisions implemented by the Australian government during the pandemic, allowing applicants who applied for the Subclass 445 visa from outside Australia to still be in Australia at the time the visa is granted.
This Article In A Nutshell:
The Australia Dependent Child Visa Subclass 445 allows children of permanent partner visa applicants to stay in Australia until a decision is made. Eligibility includes being sponsored by the same person and meeting age or dependency criteria. Application requires various documents, and a fee of AUD 2,710. Processing takes about 14-19 months.
— By VisaVerge.com
