The Child Visa (Subclass 802) is a visa category that allows children to stay in Australia permanently with their parents. This visa is designed for children who are dependent on a parent who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or holder of an Australian permanent visa. In this article, we will explore the process, requirements, and benefits of the Child Visa (Subclass 802).

Process

To apply for the Child Visa (Subclass 802), the applicant must submit the necessary documents to the Australian authorities. The application must be made while the child is in Australia, and the child must be in Australia when the decision is made. The application is submitted on paper by completing the Form 47CH Application for migration to Australia by a child and the Form 40CH Sponsorship for a child to migrate to Australia. The forms must be completed in English, and the application fee must be paid before submission.

Requirements

To be eligible for the Child Visa (Subclass 802), the child must meet the following criteria:

1. Relationship to the Sponsor: The child must be a dependent child of a parent who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent visa holder. The child can be the biological child, adopted child, or stepchild of the sponsor.
2. Age Requirement: The child must be under 18 years of age, a full-time student aged over 18 and under 25, or over 18 and unable to work due to a disability.
3. Financial Dependency: The child must be single and dependent on the parent for financial support.
4. Health and Character Requirements: The child and any dependent children included in the application must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian authorities.
5. Sponsorship: The child must be sponsored by an eligible parent, their parent's spouse, or de facto partner. The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent visa holder and must meet the suitability criteria for sponsorship.

Benefits

Once the Child Visa (Subclass 802) is granted, the child can enjoy several benefits, including:

1. Permanent Residency: The child can migrate to Australia as a permanent resident and stay in the country indefinitely.
2. Study and Medicare: The child can access education opportunities in Australia and also avail of the healthcare system through Medicare.
3. Australian Citizenship: If eligible, the child can apply for Australian citizenship after a certain period of time as a permanent resident.
4. Travel: The child can travel to and from Australia as many times as they want for five years from the date the visa is granted. After the initial five-year period, the child may need to apply for a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia.
5. Work and Study: The child can work and study in Australia, opening up opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Conclusion

The Child Visa (Subclass 802) provides a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for children who are dependent on a parent who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or holder of an Australian permanent visa. By meeting the eligibility criteria and completing the application process, children can enjoy the benefits of living and studying in Australia.