New Instrument for Child Visa Applications Commences in Australia
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Updated: 4 September 2026
Australia’s Migration (Arrangements for Child Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/081) commenced on 2 September 2026, following registration on 1 September.
It specifies approved forms, submission methods and lodgement locations for certain Child visa applications. Legislative instrument.
Why was a new instrument introduced?
LIN 26/081 replaces Arrangements for Child Visa Applications 2016/051, which was due to sunset on 1 October 2026.
The government describes the replacement as continuing existing arrangements with minor and technical changes. Its focus is maintaining application procedures, rather than announcing broader visa eligibility. Official explanatory statement.
Which visa classes and forms are covered?
Visa class | Approved form |
Child (Migrant), Class AH | 47CH |
Child (Residence), Class BT | 47CH |
Extended Eligibility (Temporary), Class TK | 918 |
Applications must be submitted by prepaid post or courier to the corresponding destination below.
Postal address:
Department of Home Affairs Child and Other Family Processing Centre GPO Box 241Port Melbourne VIC 3008 Australia
Courier address:
Department of Home Affairs Child and Other Family Processing Centre Wellington Central836 Wellington Street West Perth WA 6005 Australia
These destinations are specified in Schedule 1 of the instrument.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the new Child visa instrument commence?
LIN 26/081 commenced on 2 September 2026, the day after registration.
What happens to applications received at a previous address?
Section 8 recognises covered applications received at an address specified under the immediately preceding instrument. They are treated as complying with the new instrument and received on the date first received and stamped there. Legislative instrument, sections 2 and 8.
Does the instrument introduce major policy changes?
The explanatory statement describes the changes as minor and technical, continuing existing arrangements.
What does the instrument say about adoptions in Pakistan?
Pakistan remains the only specified country, without a limit on the adoption period. An application in the affected classes is invalid where the applicant relies on an adoption in that country to satisfy the relevant requirements.
Is this a restriction on all Pakistani applicants?
No. The provision concerns specified adoption circumstances, rather than nationality alone. Families affected should seek advice about their particular circumstances. Official explanatory statement, paragraph 7 and Attachment A.
Official Government Sources
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This article provides general information. Visa outcomes depend on individual circumstances and assessment by the Department of Home Affairs.
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