Can You Include Stepchildren or Adopted Children in a Child Visa Application?

If you're an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen planning to bring your child to live with you in Australia, you may be wondering whether stepchildren or adopted children are eligible for a Child Visa. The good news is that in many cases, they can be—but there are specific conditions and documentation requirements you must meet.

This article explains the rules around including stepchildren and adopted children in a Child Visa (subclass 101 or 802) application, and what you need to know to ensure a smooth process.

Understanding Child Visas: Subclass 101 and 802

There are two main types of Child Visas:

• Subclass 101 – For children applying outside Australia

• Subclass 802 – For children applying inside Australia

Both visas allow eligible children to live permanently in Australia, attend school, access Medicare, and eventually apply for Australian citizenship.

These visas are primarily for biological children, but under certain conditions, stepchildren and adopted children may also qualify.

✅ Stepchildren: Are They Eligible?

Yes—stepchildren can be included in a child visa application if certain criteria are met.

To be eligible, the stepchild must be:

• The child of your current or former spouse or de facto partner

• Under 18 years of age, or

• Aged 18–25 and a full-time student, or

• Over 18 and dependent due to a disability

• Not married or in a de facto relationship

• Dependent on the sponsoring parent

Additional Requirements:

• The sponsoring step-parent must have legal responsibility or custody of the child

• If the biological parent is not part of the visa application, written consent from them may be required

• Evidence must be provided to show an ongoing parental relationship and dependency

Example:

If you are married to someone who has a 12-year-old child from a previous relationship, and that child lives with you and is financially dependent on your household, they may qualify for a child visa sponsored by you.

✅ Adopted Children: Are They Eligible?

Yes—adopted children may be included in a child visa application, but the process is more complex, especially if the adoption occurred outside Australia.

Key Conditions:

• The adoption must be legal and recognised by Australian authorities

• The adoption must have occurred before the child turned 18

• The adoptive parent must have full legal custody and responsibility

• The child must meet the same age and dependency criteria as biological children

Important Notes:

• If the child was adopted after the parent became an Australian citizen or permanent resident, the standard child visa (subclass 101 or 802) may be used

• If the adoption occurred before the parent became an Australian citizen or PR, or through an intercountry adoption process, a separate visa subclass (e.g., Adoption Visa subclass 102) may be more appropriate

It’s important to seek advice if your adoption was done overseas, as extra documentation—such as legal adoption orders, immigration clearance, and evidence of the parent-child relationship—will be required.

Custody and Legal Consent: A Common Challenge

For both stepchildren and adopted children, one of the biggest hurdles is proving that the sponsoring parent has legal custody or the right to remove the child from their home country.

You may need to provide:

• Court orders granting custody or guardianship

• Written consent from the non-migrating biological parent

• Proof that bringing the child to Australia is in their best interests

If these documents aren’t provided, the Department of Home Affairs may refuse the application, even if the child qualifies under other criteria.

Tips for a Strong Application

• ✅ Submit complete documentation, including birth/adoption certificates, legal custody documents, and proof of the relationship

• ✅ Include a personal statement explaining the family situation and the child’s dependency

• ✅ Use a registered migration agent if your case is complex or involves cross-border custody issues

• ✅ Apply early if your child is close to turning 18 or 25, as age limits affect eligibility

When to Use a Different Visa

In some cases, Adoption Visa (subclass 102) may be more suitable—particularly for children adopted overseas through intercountry adoption processes. This visa has specific requirements and involves cooperation with state or territory adoption authorities in Australia.

Final Thoughts

Yes—stepchildren and adopted children can often be included in a child visa application to Australia. However, the process requires clear documentation, proof of dependency, and often legal custody or consent from other parents. If you’re unsure which pathway to take, consulting a migration agent or legal advisor is strongly recommended.

Bringing your child to Australia is a deeply personal journey. With the right guidance and preparation, you can reunite your family and give your child a stable and promising future.