When applying for an Australian partner visa, you may be able to include certain dependent family members in your application. This refers to dependent children who meet the eligibility requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Key takeaways
- Partner visa applicants can include eligible dependent children in their application.
- Dependent children can include biological children, adopted children, and stepchildren in certain circumstances.
- Additional requirements apply when including children in a visa application.
- Supporting documents may be required to demonstrate dependency and parental responsibility.
- Understanding who can be included is an important part of preparing a strong Partner Visa application.
Who can be included in a partner visa application?
The most common family members included in a partner visa application are dependent children.
Depending on the circumstances, eligible family members may include:
- biological children
- adopted children
- stepchildren
Each person included in the application must meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
What is considered a dependent child?
A dependent child is generally a child who relies on a parent or guardian for financial support and care.
The Department of Home Affairs considers factors such as:
- the child’s age
- financial dependency
- family circumstances
- whether the child is part of the family unit
Additional evidence may be required to demonstrate dependency where relevant.
Can stepchildren be included?
In some situations, stepchildren may be included in a partner visa application.
Applicants may need to provide evidence showing:
- the relationship between the child and the applicant or sponsor
- parental responsibility arrangements
- consent from other parents or guardians where required
Each case is assessed on its own circumstances.
What documents are required when including children?
The exact documents required will depend on the child’s circumstances.
Common examples include:
- birth certificates
- passports or identity documents
- adoption records
- custody or parenting orders
- consent documentation where applicable
Providing complete and accurate documentation can help reduce delays during processing.
Do dependent children need to meet health and character requirements?
Yes.
Children included in a visa application may be required to satisfy certain health and character requirements depending on their age and circumstances.
The Department of Home Affairs will advise what assessments or documentation may be required during the application process.
Can family members be added after lodging a partner visa application?
Yes.
In some situations, changes to family circumstances may occur after an application has been lodged.
Examples may include:
- the birth of a child
- changes to dependency arrangements
- new family members becoming eligible
Applicants should notify the Department of Home Affairs of relevant changes as soon as possible and seek advice about how those changes may affect the application.
Does this apply to both onshore and offshore partner visas?
Yes.
The ability to include eligible dependent children may apply to both the Subclass 820 Partner Visa and the Subclass 309 Temporary Partner Visa.
The specific requirements and supporting documents will depend on the individual circumstances of the family.
Why professional guidance can help
Including dependent children in a visa application often involves additional documentation and eligibility requirements.
Many applicants choose to work with a Migration Agent in Sydney or another registered migration professional to ensure the application is prepared correctly and all required information is provided.
Understanding who can be included in your application
Partner visa applications allow eligible dependent children and certain other members of the family unit to be included, provided they meet the relevant requirements.
If you are unsure whether a child or family member can be included in your application, book a free consultation to discuss your circumstances.
