Subclass 445
Dependent Child visa (subclass 445) preparation checklist
A general list of the steps and documents commonly involved. It is the same for every reader, does not assess eligibility for any person and is not advice. The official Home Affairs page and the ImmiAccount checklist decide what an application needs.
Subclass 445 Dependent Child visa — preparation checklist
Before you start
- Confirm the family pathway fits this visa
In general terms, this visa assumes a parent already on a temporary or provisional partner visa who is awaiting the permanent stage, with a dependent child who was not already included. Check the official page to confirm the situation matches, and a registered practitioner can advise on borderline cases.
- Consider age and dependency
Younger children are typically treated as dependent, while older children generally need to show genuine, substantial financial dependence and that they are not partnered. Age and dependency rules are specific and time-sensitive — verify current requirements on the official page.
Documents commonly requested
- Gather identity documents
Typically a current passport and a birth certificate establishing the child's identity and link to the parent. Confirm accepted formats and certification on the official page.
- Assemble relationship and dependency evidence
Material connecting the child to the parent on the partner pathway, plus dependency evidence where the child is older (for example study and financial information). The kinds of evidence vary by circumstance.
- Arrange character documents where relevant
Police or character certificates can be required, generally for older children and depending on countries of residence. Check the official page for who needs them and which countries are covered.
- Organise health examinations if required
Health requirements typically apply and are arranged through the Department's nominated process. Confirm whether and when examinations are needed on the official page.
- Confirm sponsorship arrangements
Sponsorship generally ties back to the same person supporting the parent's partner visa. Check the official page for the current sponsorship steps and any separate sponsor obligations.
Lodging the application
- Lodge through ImmiAccount
After lodging
- Respond to requests and the permanent stage
After lodging, applicants typically watch their ImmiAccount for any requests (such as biometrics or further information) and consider the permanent partner-visa stage. Check the official page for current next steps, and a registered practitioner can advise on timing.
About this checklist
Extracted only each visa's generic checklist name, ordered items (stage, title, description, coarse category) and official visa link. Omitted charges, processing times, blocks, walkthroughs and news. Wording is general information written to defer to the official page; it is not advice.
Official names and links are attributed to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs (official links); checklist wording platform-authored under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia (official names and links). Checklist wording last reviewed 10 September 2026. Personal advice is available only from a registered migration agent or lawyer; practitioners for this visa are listed on the visa page.