The Subclass 102 Adoption Visa allows children adopted outside Australia to live permanently in Australia with their adoptive parent. This visa offers adopted children the opportunity to become Australian residents, access healthcare, pursue education, and apply for citizenship if eligible.
Overview
- Stay: Permanent residency
- Cost: Starting from AUD 3,140
- Processing Times: Variable, check the visa processing time guide for the latest estimates.
Benefits of the Subclass 102 Adoption Visa
With this visa, the child can:
- Migrate to Australia permanently and reside with their adoptive family.
- Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare scheme.
- Study and work in Australia.
- Apply for Australian citizenship if they meet the eligibility criteria.
- Sponsor eligible family members for Australian visas.
- Travel to and from Australia freely for five years from the visa grant date (after which they may apply for a Resident Return Visa).
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 102 Adoption Visa, the child must:
- Be under 18 years old at the time of adoption and when the visa is applied for.
- Be outside Australia when the visa application is submitted and when the decision is made.
- Have been or be in the process of being adopted by the sponsoring adoptive parent.
The child must also meet the health and character requirements, and any outstanding debts to the Australian Government must be repaid.
Types of Adoption Eligible
The visa is intended for children adopted under the following conditions:
- Intercountry adoption involving an Australian state or territory central authority.
- Hague Convention adoption between two Hague Convention countries, excluding Australia.
- Expatriate adoption where the adoptive parent has lived outside Australia for over 12 months and has full and permanent parental rights under the adoption laws of that country.
Additional Information for Expatriate Adoptions
The Australian Government does not facilitate overseas expatriate adoptions. If an expatriate adoption is considered, adoptive parents should seek independent legal advice to ensure the adoption meets Australian requirements.
Applying for the Subclass 102 Adoption Visa
- Application Location: The child must be outside Australia when applying.
- Dependent Children: If the adopted child has siblings or dependent children, separate applications must be submitted for each child.
- Supporting Documentation: Complete all required forms and documents, as incomplete submissions can delay processing.
Other Considerations
- Sponsor Requirements: The adoptive parent must be an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent visa holder, and must pass character checks.
- Best Interests of the Child: The Department of Home Affairs will assess whether granting the visa aligns with the child’s best interests, particularly if the child is under 18.
For more information on adopting a child from overseas, refer to Intercountry Adoptions Australia. If additional questions arise, it may be beneficial to seek professional advice or contact Intercountry Adoptions Australia directly.
How Widen Migration Experts Can Help You with the Adoption Visa (Subclass 102)
The Adoption Visa (Subclass 102) is designed for children who have been adopted by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa allows your adopted child to live and stay in Australia permanently. Widen Migration Experts can support you throughout the adoption and visa application process to ensure a smooth transition for your family.
- Eligibility Assessment: We help you determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for the Adoption Visa, including the relationship with the adoptive parent and the legal adoption process.
- Visa Application Guidance: Our team assists you in preparing and submitting the visa application, ensuring that all necessary details and documentation are correctly provided to avoid delays.
- Documentation Support: We help you gather the required documents, including the adoption order, identity documents, and evidence of your relationship with the child.
- Immigration Procedures: We provide expert advice on the immigration process, including any requirements related to medical examinations, police checks, and other necessary clearances.
- Ongoing Support: We offer continued assistance to guide you through the application process, ensuring compliance with all requirements and helping you stay informed about the progress of your application.
Widen Migration Experts is here to provide you with comprehensive support, ensuring your adopted child’s permanent residency in Australia is processed efficiently and successfully.