A Subclass 802 Visa, also known as a Child visa (onshore), lets the dependent child of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen migrate to Australia permanently to live with their parents.
802 Child Visa Eligibility
Applicants must be a child of an eligible resident of Australia (an Australian citizen, eligible New
Zealand Citizen, or Australian permanent visa holder). They can be a biological child, adopted
child, or stepchild of a parent.
The child must also be dependent on the parent. This means either under 18 years old; between
18 and 25, studying full time; or over 18 years old, with a disability preventing them from working
full-time, and financially dependent on their parent. They cannot be married, engaged, or in a de
facto relationship.
Additionally, applicants must:
- Be sponsored by their parent (or parent’s spouse or partner)
- Be in Australia when they apply for the visa
- Pass the health, identity, and character tests set by the Australian Government
The 802 visa application process can be complex, and usually requires a large amount of detailed documentation. Passing all the appropriate tests can be difficult, and failing to do so can result in the application being refused. As such, we typically recommend seeking professional guidance on all 802 visa applications.
But don’t worry – we’re here to help. At Hansen Migration, we specialise in family visas like the onshore Child visa. Our Registered Migration Agents can help simplify all the requirements, guide you through the application process, and give you the best chance of a fast, successful outcome.
What is a 802 Visa?
The subclass 802 visa, also known as a Child visa, lets the child of an eligible Australian resident migrate to Australia permanently to live with their parent. They will be able to live, work and study in Australia, access the public healthcare system, sponsor relatives to come to Australia, and eventually may be able to apply for Australian citizenship.
Applying for an 802 Visa
Applying for a Child visa is typically a multi-step process.
The first step involves gathering and preparing all the documentation, including proof of how the applicant meets each of the eligibility criteria, and applying for the visa. Applicants granted a temporary bridging visa while their application is considered.
The application will then be placed into a queue; further information may be requested by the Australian government during this stage.
Eventually, the Australian Government will make a decision on the visa outcome. If it is successful, the 802 visa will be granted.
Benefits of an 802 Visa
- The right to live, work, and study in Australia permanently
- The ability to travel to and from Australia for 5 years (further travel rights can be requested)
- The right to apply for access to Medicare, Australia’s public health care system
- The potential to apply for Australian citizenship
Common Challenges of an 802 Visa
Applying for the 802 visa can be complex and time-consuming. Common challenges include establishing the eligibility of the sponsor; passing the required age, health, character, and identity tests; getting consent from any relevant parties; and ensuring all the documentation is in order and is submitted on time.
Occasionally, government regulations can change during the course of an application, and forms need to be amended; staying on top of all the details during the lengthy application process can be stressful and demanding. If you are unsuccessful, you can also be barred from applying for this visa again.
Fortunately, Hansen Migration is here to help. Our Registered Migration Agents have plenty of experience with Child visa applications, and are up to date on all the current laws and requirements. We can help guide you through the application process, keep you on top of all the details, and give you the best chance of a fast, successful visa outcome.
802 Visa FAQs
Most 802 visas will be processed in under 12 months, but can take up to 24 months or more.
Yes, a child will be able to travel outside Australia for up to 5 years once the visa is granted. After this, further travel rights can be requested.
Yes, changes in parental circumstances, such as separation or residency status changes, can affect 802 visa eligibility.
Yes, the visa can be cancelled if the visa holder provides false information, fails to comply with visa conditions, or engages in criminal activities.
If the visa application is refused, you could appeal the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), or consider applying for another visa if eligible. In these cases, a Registered Migration Agent may be able to help you further.
Download Your Free Family Visa Handbook
Looking for more details on the different visas and the requirements? We’ve put together this handy guide to help answer your questions. Just click below to download a copy today.
If you’ve still got questions after reading it, don’t stress – we can help. Book a free consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents today.
