Sponsoring a Child Overseas
Bring YourChild Home
The Subclass 101 Child Visa lets dependent children join their Australian parent permanently, but eligibility and documents must be exact from the start.
What Happens Next?
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Subclass 101 - Offshore Child Visa
The Subclass 101 Child Visa allows dependent children of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently with their sponsoring parent, supporting family reunification.
About this visa
The Subclass 101 Child Visa is designed for children who are dependent on an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa allows eligible children to live with their sponsoring parent in Australia permanently. It falls under the family reunion category, facilitating the reunification of children with their Australian-based parents.
Eligibility for Applicant
| Requirements | ||
|---|---|---|
| Age |
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| Relationship with sponsor |
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| Marital Status |
| |
| Location |
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| Debt to the Australian Government |
| |
| Health & Character |
| |
Eligibility for Sponsor
| Requirements | ||
|---|---|---|
| Age |
| |
| Citizenship or Residency |
| |
| Character |
| |
Cost
| Cost | |
|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | AUD 3,235 |
| Secondary Applicants (aged 18 and over) | AUD 1,615 each |
| Dependent Children (under 18) | AUD 810 each |
The fee is subject to the latest pricing set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Stay Period
-
It’s permanent visa.
Benefits
- Work in Australia: Holders of the Subclass 101 Visa can work.
- Study: You can pursue further studies or enroll in courses in Australia, which can enhance your skills and qualifications.
- Family Sponsorship: The applicant can include eligible family members, such as your dependent children, in your visa application.
- Access to Healthcare: Visa holders can access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare scheme, which provides essential medical services.
- Multiple Entries: Enjoy multiple entries to and exits from Australia for a period of up to five years, allowing for flexibility in travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Note: This FAQ is general information only and not legal advice. Settings (e.g., eligibility tests, exemptions, and evidentiary rules) can change; always check the latest legislative instruments before applying.
Can my child apply for the 101 visa if they are married or in a de facto relationship?
No. The child must be single. Children who are married, engaged, or in a de facto relationship are not eligible.
My child is over 18 but financially dependent on me due to full-time study. Are they still eligible?
Yes, children aged 18–25 may still qualify if they are financially dependent on the sponsor because of full-time education.
What if my child is over 25 but has a disability?
Children aged 18 or older with a disability that makes them financially dependent on the sponsor may still be eligible, regardless of age.
My child was adopted overseas. Can they apply for a 101 visa?
Yes, but the adoption must have occurred before the child turned 18, and the adoptive parent must not have been an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen at the time of adoption. Otherwise, the Adoption visa (Subclass 102) may apply instead.
Can a stepchild apply for the 101 visa?
Yes, but the stepchild must be under 18 and the sponsor must have legal guardianship or a parenting order.
What if the sponsoring parent has previously sponsored another child or partner?
Each case is assessed individually, but sponsors must meet financial and character requirements. Prior sponsorships do not automatically exclude eligibility but may raise scrutiny.
Can my child travel to Australia while the 101 application is being processed?
Yes, but they must hold a valid visa, such as a Visitor visa. The 101 visa itself is an offshore visa, so the child must be outside Australia at the time of grant.
What if the sponsoring parent dies before the 101 visa is decided?
In limited cases, the application may continue if there are compelling reasons and if the child’s best interests are at stake.
Will a parent’s unpaid debt to the Australian Government affect the child’s visa?
Yes. Outstanding debts to the Australian Government must be repaid or formal arrangements made before the child’s visa can be granted.
My child has a previous visa refusal. Will it impact the 101 visa?
Yes, past refusals or cancellations can affect the assessment. Full disclosure and supporting explanations are crucial to avoid complications.
