Dependent Child Visa Australia (Subclass 445)
The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) allows certain dependent children of applicants holding a temporary Partner Visa to join their parent in Australia while the permanent Partner Visa application is being processed.
This visa is designed to keep families together during the partner visa process and provides a pathway for eligible children to be included in the family's migration journey.
The Subclass 445 visa is a temporary visa that may provide a pathway to permanent residence when the sponsoring parent's permanent Partner Visa is granted.
- Temporary visa linked to a Partner Visa application
- For dependent children of Partner Visa applicants
- Allows eligible children to live in Australia
- Study rights in Australia
- Potential pathway to permanent residence
- No points test requirement
Benefits of the Subclass 445 Visa
The Dependent Child Visa provides important benefits for families who are progressing through Australia's partner visa system.
Although it is a temporary visa, it allows eligible children to remain connected with their parent and participate in family life in Australia while the permanent partner visa application is being processed.
Live in Australia
Eligible children can live with their parent in Australia while awaiting a permanent migration outcome.
Study Rights
Children may attend school and continue their education in Australia.
Family Unity
Helps avoid lengthy separation between parents and children during visa processing.
Future Permanent Residence
May provide a pathway to permanent residence once the parent's partner visa reaches the permanent stage.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
One of the most important features of the Subclass 445 visa is its connection to Australia's Partner Visa program.
Where the sponsoring parent progresses from the temporary partner visa stage to the permanent partner visa stage, eligible children holding a Subclass 445 visa may also be able to obtain permanent residence.
This pathway enables families to migrate together and establish long-term stability in Australia.
Typical Progression
- Parent lodges or holds a temporary Partner Visa
- Child is granted a Subclass 445 visa
- Family lives together in Australia
- Parent obtains permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801 or 100)
- Eligible child may progress to permanent residence
Important Considerations
The Subclass 445 visa is unique because it is closely linked to a parent's partner visa application. The child's eligibility is often dependent upon the status of the parent's visa application and family circumstances.
Common issues requiring careful consideration include:
- Proof of dependency
- Evidence of the parent-child relationship
- Custody and parental responsibility arrangements
- Consent from non-migrating parents where applicable
- Changes in family circumstances after visa lodgement
- Timing of applications during the partner visa process
Providing clear documentary evidence can help reduce delays and requests for additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Subclass 445 visa?
The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) is a temporary visa that allows eligible children of Partner Visa applicants to join their parent in Australia while the permanent partner visa application is being processed.
Does the Subclass 445 visa provide permanent residence?
No. The Subclass 445 visa is a temporary visa. However, it may provide a pathway to permanent residence when the parent's permanent Partner Visa is granted.
Can a child attend school in Australia on a Subclass 445 visa?
Yes. Eligible children may study in Australia while holding a Subclass 445 visa.
Can a child over 18 qualify?
Potentially. The Department may assess dependency requirements and the child's individual circumstances.
What documents are commonly required?
Applications often require birth certificates, identity documents, evidence of dependency, custody documentation and proof of the relationship between the child and parent.
Can a stepchild qualify for a Subclass 445 visa?
Depending on the circumstances, stepchildren may qualify if the relevant migration requirements are satisfied.
What happens when the parent's permanent Partner Visa is granted?
Eligible children may become eligible to transition to permanent residence as part of the family's migration pathway.
Why is timing important for Subclass 445 applications?
Because the visa is linked to a parent's Partner Visa application, changes in family circumstances and visa status can affect eligibility and application strategy.
Reviewed by Principal Migration Consultant
This page has been reviewed by Mohammad Reza Azimi, Principal Migration Consultant at Shada Migration. Mohammad has assisted clients with Australian migration matters since 2009 and holds a Graduate Certificate in Migration Law from the Australian National University (ANU).
Need Advice on a Dependent Child Visa?
Subclass 445 applications often involve dependency requirements, custody arrangements, parental responsibility issues and partner visa considerations. Professional advice may help identify the most appropriate strategy for your family's circumstances.
