Congratulations on your new arrival!
At this stage, the baby does not have a visa status, so Immigration must be made aware of them as soon as possible. This is especially important if there is a lodged visa application to ensure the baby is included with the rest of the family and to access Medicare for the child if eligible.
A child born in Australia is entitled to the visa/s of its parents, though usually only the ‘most beneficial’ one is granted. For example, if one parent holds a Student visa, and one holds a Graduate visa, the Graduate visa is the one the child receives. It has no study or work restrictions and is therefore most beneficial.
To obtain the visa the child is entitled to, applicants must:
- Notify Immigration in writing that the child has been born, including the full name and date of birth; then
- Provide a copy of the birth certificate once available; then
- Provide a copy of the passport once available.
Do not wait for a passport to be processed before notifying Immigration. This can have disastrous outcomes!
If one of the parents is an Australian permanent resident or Citizen, the child is entitled to Australian Citizenship from birth. Proper recognition as an Australian Citizen can be obtained by:
- Applying for evidence of Citizenship; or
- Applying for an Australian passport
Parents should note that if their child is only granted a foreign passport and exits Australia, Immigration will not be aware that the child is an Australian Citizen and will expect the child to hold a valid visa for travel. Children may be refused entry to Australia on a foreign passport even though they are entitled to Citizenship.
Ensuring that Immigration is notified of a birth swiftly is the best way to secure your child’s status in Australia.
AVIE’s clients are encouraged to reach out to their Agent directly for further guidance. Other visa holders are welcome to contact us for assistance via the links below.