bigsi1984

Hi,

My family and I are planning to move to Australia at some point in the next few years. Our kids are both currently under 18 but by the time we have to move they would be 18 and 21 respectively. Would they be able to come with us as a family unit or as they will technically be adults do they have to apply under their own steam?

Any info you can provide would be greatly appreciated.


Si

louie

Apply now/soon whilst they are still under 18 and if and when you get the visa, the whole family has to validate it by taking a trip to Australia within a year but you all have five years to make the move. Their ages when they/you actually move would then be irrelevant as they would already have secured their visas. Problem solved as long as you are sure you will be able to move within five years (and are happy to do a validation trip).

TeeTMI

Within the skilled visas, children over the age of 18 need to meet the DIBP's definition of 'Dependent'. Scenario’s that may meet this might include for example where they have not yet commenced work, are still in full time education and still dependent on you financially.

You might look at strategies and options that enable your children to be included.

bigsi1984

Thanks for the information. Certainly sounds like trying to get the visa approved before my daughter (the older one) turns 18 would be the best way to go. However, if this wasn't possible then we would be in a situation with them both most likely at university (or one just finishing) when we want to go.

There is no doubt that they will still be dependant on us financially as there will be no chance of them owing a home here or anything like that.

Is there any way in which they could still come as part of our family?


Thanks,

Si

old.sparkles

If they are still studying full time you should be okay - but in more than 3 years time, there is no guarantee that any of you will be able to get a visa as the skills lists / criteria change regularly.

Pollyana

Owning a home doesn't come into it. They need to be dependent- not in a relationship, as well as not working & earning