Age and Dependency Rules (18–25 Category)

For applicants aged 18–25, the Department of Home Affairs requires evidence that the child:

• Is enrolled in full-time study

• Relies financially on the sponsoring parent

• Is not working full-time

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Evidence may include:

• Confirmation of enrolment

• Financial support records

• Bank statements

• Living arrangements documentation

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Dependency must exist at the time of application and decision.​

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Sponsorship Requirements

The sponsoring parent must:

• Provide proof of citizenship or permanent residency

• Accept sponsorship obligations

• Provide identity documents

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If the other parent is not included or not consenting, formal custody or consent documentation may be required. Custody matters are a common assessment area and should be addressed clearly.

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Onshore Location Requirement (Critical Rule)

For the child visa subclass 802, the applicant:

• Must be in Australia when applying

• Must remain in Australia until a decision is made

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If the child departs Australia before the visa is granted, this can affect the application outcome.

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Bridging Visa Considerations

When applying onshore, the applicant may be granted a Bridging Visa if they hold a substantive visa at time of application.

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A Bridging Visa may:

• Allow lawful stay in Australia while the application is processed

• Have travel restrictions unless a Bridging Visa B is granted

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Visa status management is important to avoid becoming unlawful.

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Health and Character Requirements

Applicants must meet Australian health standards. If aged 16 or over, the child may need to provide police clearance certificates. Health examinations are usually required before visa grant.

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Required Documents

While requirements vary by case, applicants generally provide:​

• Passport and identity documents

• Birth certificate

• Evidence of relationship

• Sponsorship documentation

• Custody or parental consent documents (if applicable)

• Financial dependency evidence (if over 18)

• Health and character documents

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Incomplete or inconsistent documentation may delay assessment.

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Processing Time for Subclass 802

Processing times vary depending on:

• Completeness of application

• Custody documentation

• Health assessments

• Volume of applications

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Applicants should check the official processing time tool for the most current estimates.

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Visa Cost

The visa application charge depends on:

• Age of the applicant

• Any additional family members included

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Additional costs may include:

• Medical examinations

• Police clearances

• Document translation

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Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed before lodging the application.

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When Is Subclass 802 Appropriate?

The subclass 802 pathway is generally suitable when:

• The sponsoring parent already holds PR or citizenship

• The child is currently in Australia

• The child meets age and dependency criteria

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If the child is outside Australia, the offshore pathway may be required instead.

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Common Refusal Risks

Common issues in child visa 802 Australia applications include:

• Applying while the child is not lawfully in Australia

• Failing to meet dependency requirements

• Insufficient custody documentation

• Departing Australia before visa decision

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Careful subclass selection and compliance with location requirements are essential.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Child Visa Subclass 802?
The Child Visa Subclass 802 is a permanent visa for eligible children who are in Australia and sponsored by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Does the child need to remain in Australia during processing?

Yes. The applicant must be in Australia when the application is lodged and must remain in Australia at the time of visa decision.

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Can the child travel overseas while waiting?

Travel may be restricted depending on the visa held. If the applicant is granted a Bridging Visa, they may need a Bridging Visa B before travelling outside Australia. Leaving Australia without appropriate travel permission can affect the application.

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Is Subclass 802 a permanent visa?

Yes. Subclass 802 grants permanent residency once approved.

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What is the age limit for Subclass 802?

Applicants must be under 18, or aged 18–25 and financially dependent while studying full-time, or over 18 with a qualifying disability.

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What happens if the child turns 18 during processing?

Eligibility is generally assessed at time of application. However, dependency requirements must continue to be met at time of decision.

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Can a step-child apply under Subclass 802?

In certain circumstances, a step-child may qualify if the relationship meets legislative requirements and appropriate evidence is provided.

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What if one parent does not consent?

Custody or formal consent documentation may be required. Failure to provide adequate evidence can delay or affect the application outcome.

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Related Pathway

If the child is outside Australia at the time of application, the appropriate pathway may be:

Child Visa (Subclass 101)

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Choosing the correct subclass is critical to avoid delays or invalid applications.