Dependent Child Visa(Subclass 445) Eligibility Criteria & Application Process

September 12, 2023    Immigrationlawyers
Dependent Child Visa(Subclass 445) Eligibility Criteria & Application Process

Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

Australia has always been a dream destination for many individuals and families worldwide. This vast island nation is home to urban centres, stunning natural landscapes, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a thriving economy.

Australia offers a high standard of living, several opportunities for top-notch education, promising job possibilities, and a culturally diverse experience. For families with dependent children who want to experience this, the Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) is a vital pathway.

With this visa, children can be reunited with loved ones who are Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. The Subclass 445 visa will be thoroughly covered in this comprehensive guide, along with its requirements, application process, benefits and how a child visa lawyer in Perth can assist you.

What is the Subclass 445 Visa?

The Subclass 445 Visa, often known as the Dependent Child Visa, was created to enable dependent children of qualifying Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens who meet the conditions to not only live but also study and work in Australia. The ability to remain with their parents while their application for a permanent partner visa (Subclass 100 or 309) is handled makes this visa a beacon of hope for children.

Key Features

1. Temporary Visa: It is critical to understand that the Subclass 445 Visa has an expiration date. Children are given a temporary visa to reside in Australia while their parents’ permanent partner visa application is processed.

2. Multiple Entry: Multiple entry is a feature of this visa that is quite advantageous. This ensures holders can travel freely within and outside Australia while admiring its beauty during the validity period.

3. Work and Study: The visa covers more than just residence. As a result, they can now work and study in Australia. This is an invaluable opportunity for these young minds to access a world of personal and professional development.

Eligibility Criteria

Sponsor’s Eligibility

A child must have a sponsoring parent who matches one of the following criteria to be eligible for a Subclass 445 Visa:

  • A bona fide Australian citizen
  • A legitimate Australian permanent resident
  • A qualified New Zealand citizen

Child’s Eligibility

These conditions must be properly met by children applying for Subclass 445 Visas:

  1. Have a genuine dependency on the sponsoring parent
  2. Maintain their single status by being unmarried and not engaging in a de facto relationship
  3. Be within the age bracket of under 25 years
  4. Check, if they are the guardians of any other dependent children.

Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

You must have the following paperwork ready before you apply for a Subclass 445 Visa:

  • A completed visa application form
  • Proof of your relationship with the sponsoring parent
  • Health insurance
  • Character documents
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Proof of dependency

Step 2: Lodge Your Application

To submit your application, visit the official Australian government website or a registered migration agent. Pay the required visa application fee.

Step 3: Health and Character Checks

You could undergo a health and character check as part of the application process. Documentation must be provided upon request without delay.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

The processing time for a Dependent Child Visa Subclass 445 varies. Patience is essential throughout this waiting period because many factors could influence how quickly visas are processed.

Step 5: Visa Grant

Once your application has been approved, you will receive a visa approval notice. While the parent’s application for a permanent partner visa is being reviewed, this visa remains valid.

Read Also – Child Visa Subclass 101 Eligibility Criteria

Benefits of the Subclass 445 Visa

1. Family Reunion

The Subclass 445 Visa allows dependent children to reunite with their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or qualifying New Zealand citizen parents. This visa promotes family unity and allows parents and children to live together in Australia.

2. Education Opportunities

Any person with a Subclass 445 Visa can access the world-class Australian educational system. They can choose to enrol in schools, colleges, and universities, which opens doors to prospects for top-notch education and employment.

3. Work Rights

Children dependent on their parents are also permitted to work in Australia under the rules of this visa, acquiring valuable job experience. They can manage their finances and contribute to the Australian workforce.

4. Healthcare Access

Those with visas can access Medicare, Australia’s healthcare program. This ensures that while they are there, they will get the assistance and medical care they need.

Read More – Child Adoption Visa Requirements

Additional Considerations for Applicants

The following additional considerations for applicants must be highlighted:

1. Financial Requirements

Candidates must understand the financial requirements for the Subclass 445 Visa. They should ensure they have the means to maintain themselves in Australia since this visa does not entitle holders to government financial assistance. Adequate financial planning and a manageable budget are crucial to ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay in Australia.

2. Bridging Visa

Following the approval of the Subclass 445 Visa, applicants will automatically receive a Bridging Visa. While awaiting the conclusion of the parent’s permanent partner visa, applicants are eligible to stay in Australia legally with the help of this visa. Once the previous visa, such as a tourist visa, has expired, it takes effect. The Bridging Visa is a significant benefit because it ensures the visa holder can stay and work during the application processing.

3. Ongoing Parent Visa Application

While on the Subclass 445 visa, the sponsoring parent must continue to work on their Subclass 100 or Subclass 309 permanent partner visa application. If there are issues with or delays with this application, the holder of a Subclass 445 Visa might be unable to stay in Australia. Therefore, monitoring the parent’s visa application progress for the child’s visa status is crucial.

4. Seek Professional Guidance

The requirements for the Subclass 445 Visa are subject to change, and understanding the Australian immigration process can be difficult. It is highly recommended that applicants and parents sponsoring their children seek specialised immigration counsel from a child visa lawyer. These experts can provide tailored advice, ensure that all documentation is accurate and complete, and increase the possibility that a visa application will be approved.

Final Thoughts

Australia’s Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) opens up a world of possibilities for dependent children. Many benefits are promised, such as the joy of a family reunion, unmatched educational opportunities, unrestricted employment rights, and full access to healthcare. The visa application process can go smoothly with proper preparation and knowledgeable guidance from Immigration Lawyer Perth WA.

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