Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

If your child needs to join you in Australia while waiting for your Partner visa to be processed, the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) is the perfect solution. This temporary visa allows children to stay, work, and study in Australia, keeping their families united during the process.

At CIA Lawyers, we understand how precious family time is. Let us make the application process simple and stress-free for you.

Costs & Details of the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) offers a temporary solution to bring your child to Australia while waiting for the parent’s Partner visa decision. Let’s break down the costs and details so you know exactly what to expect:

Application Fee: The cost of applying for the Dependent Child Visa is AUD 3,140. This fee covers the initial processing and is a necessary step to keep your child close during the visa waiting period.
Duration: The visa is valid until the parent’s Partner visa application is finalised. This provides stability for families while awaiting a permanent decision.
Processing Times: Processing times vary based on factors like application volume and individual circumstances. For an estimate, you can use the visa processing time guide tool on the Australian Government website.

Here’s a quick overview of the costs and details:

Visa Detail	Information
Application Fee	AUD 3,140
Visa Duration	Temporary (valid until Partner visa decision)
Processing Times	Varies; use the processing time guide tool
Work & Study Rights	Yes

This visa is a fantastic way to keep your family together while ensuring your child can access Australia’s opportunities.

Benefits of the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) is a valuable option for families wanting to stay together during the Partner visa process.

Here’s what makes it a fantastic choice:

Temporary Stay with Family: This visa allows your child to remain in Australia while the parent’s Partner visa application is being processed. It’s a practical way to ensure your family stays connected.
Work and Study Rights: Your child can work and study in Australia during their temporary stay, giving them access to opportunities that benefit their development and independence.
Travel Flexibility: The visa allows your child to travel to and from Australia freely while waiting for the Partner visa decision, making it easier to manage personal or family commitments overseas.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Once the parent’s Partner visa is granted, your child can transition to permanent residency, offering long-term security and stability in Australia.
Family Reunification: Most importantly, it helps reunite families separated by borders, giving your child a chance to experience life with you in Australia while awaiting a permanent solution.

These benefits make the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) an excellent option for keeping families together and ensuring children have access to opportunities during the visa processing period.

Eligibility Criteria for the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

To apply for the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445), your child must meet the following requirements:

Dependent on a Partner Visa Applicant or Holder: Your child must be financially or emotionally dependent on a parent who is applying for or already holds a Partner visa.
Sponsored by the Same Sponsor: The sponsor supporting the Partner visa must also sponsor the child, ensuring consistency in the application.
Age or Dependency Requirements: The child must either be under 18 years of age or, if older, prove dependency on the parent due to financial or other factors like a disability.
Meet Health and Character Standards: Like most Australian visas, your child must pass health and character checks, including medical assessments and police certificates if applicable.
No Prior Visa Cancellation or Refusal: The child should not have had a visa refused or cancelled while in Australia.

Meeting these criteria ensures that your child’s application aligns with visa requirements, setting your family on the right path to living together in Australia. If you’re unsure about any of these points, our team at CIA Lawyers is here to guide you through every step.

How CIA Lawyers Will Help You Get the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

At CIA Lawyers, we understand how vital it is for families to be together. Our dedicated team is here to make the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) application process smooth and stress-free for you.

Here’s how we’ll support you:

Initial Consultation and Assessment: We’ll evaluate your unique situation to confirm your child’s eligibility and ensure all requirements are met.
Expert Advice on Documentation: Gathering the right paperwork can be overwhelming. We’ll assist with everything, from proof of dependency to sponsorship details, so you won’t miss a thing.
Application Lodgement: Once everything is prepared, we’ll lodge your application accurately and monitor its progress to keep you informed.
Problem Resolution: If any challenges come up, we’ll address them promptly to avoid unnecessary delays.
Ongoing Support: Our team will guide you at every step, answering your questions and providing updates until your child’s visa is granted.

With CIA Lawyers handling the details, you can focus on what matters most—reuniting with your family and building your future together. Let us help make your dream of living in Australia with your loved ones a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the new rules for dependent visas in Australia?

A: Recent changes to dependent visas in Australia include updated eligibility criteria, particularly for age and dependency requirements. These rules ensure that children of Partner visa applicants can stay in Australia while their parent’s permanent visa is processed.

Q: Is Visa 445 eligible for Medicare?

A: Yes, the Dependent Child visa (subclass 445) provides access to Medicare, allowing children to access Australia’s national healthcare system while living in the country.

Q: How long does a 445 visa take?

A: The processing time for a 445 visa varies depending on several factors. Generally, it may take several months, but checking the visa processing time guide for up-to-date estimates can help.

Q: What is the age limit for a dependent child visa in Australia?

A: The child must be under 18 years of age, or if over 18, they must meet dependency criteria, such as financial or emotional reliance on the parent applying for the Partner visa.

Q: Can a dependent apply for PR in Australia?

A: A dependent child on a 445 visa cannot directly apply for Permanent Residency (PR). However, once the parent’s Partner visa is granted, the child may be eligible to apply for PR as well.

Our Process

1. Consultation

Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.

2. Application

Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.

3. Approval

We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.