DSPro · 2026-06-29

Dependent applicants and family members in visa applications

How to include family members in a visa application, who qualifies as a dependent, and the evidence required for each family unit member.

Who can be included as a dependent

Most visa applications allow the primary applicant to include members of their family unit as secondary or dependent applicants. The definition of a family unit member varies by immigration system, but it typically includes a spouse or de facto partner, dependent children under a certain age, and in some cases, other dependent relatives such as elderly parents or adult children with a disability who are financially dependent on the primary applicant. Each family member must meet the same health and character requirements as the primary applicant.

The definition of a dependent child is an important one. Most immigration systems define a dependent child as one who is under a specified age, usually 18 or 23, and who is not married or in a de facto relationship. Children over the age threshold may still be considered dependent if they are financially dependent on the primary applicant due to a disability that prevents them from working, or in some cases, if they are full-time students. The specific rules are detailed and vary by visa subclass, so it is important to check the relevant legislation and policy before assuming a family member qualifies.

This article provides general information about including family members in visa applications. It is not legal advice, and the specific eligibility rules for each visa subclass must be checked against the current legislation and policy of the relevant immigration authority.

Evidence for family relationships

For each family member included in the application, the primary applicant must provide evidence of the relationship. For a spouse, this typically includes a marriage certificate, and for a de facto partner, evidence that the relationship has existed for a minimum period, often twelve months, and that it is genuine and continuing. The evidence requirements for de facto relationships are similar to those for partner visa applications, covering financial aspects, the nature of the household, social aspects, and commitment.

For children, evidence usually includes a birth certificate showing the names of both parents. If the child's birth certificate does not name the primary applicant as a parent, or if the child is from a previous relationship, additional evidence may be required, such as adoption papers, court orders, or consent from the other parent. If a child is included from a previous relationship and the other parent is not migrating, the immigration authority may require evidence that the primary applicant has the legal right to determine where the child lives, usually through a court order or a statutory declaration from the other parent.

For other dependent relatives, the evidence must demonstrate both the family relationship and the financial dependence. This may require bank statements showing regular transfers, evidence that the relative lives with the primary applicant, and evidence that the relative has no other means of support. The threshold for proving dependence for adult relatives is generally higher than for minor children.

Health and character for family members

Every person included in a visa application, regardless of age or role, must meet the health and character requirements of the destination country. This means that each family member, including newborn children, must undergo a medical examination if required, and each person over a certain age must provide police clearance certificates from every country where they have lived for the required period. A failure by one family member to meet these requirements can affect the entire application, even if the primary applicant meets them.

For newborn children born after the application is lodged but before a decision is made, the parents must notify the immigration authority and add the child to the application. The child will then need to undergo a medical examination, and the application may be delayed while this is processed. It is important to inform the immigration authority of the birth as soon as possible, as failure to do so could result in the child not being granted a visa and being unable to travel with the family.

If a family member has a health condition that may affect the application, the primary applicant should consider seeking professional advice early. The health requirement applies to each individual, but the assessment may take into account the full circumstances of the family unit, particularly where the primary applicant has significant skills or assets that could offset the potential healthcare costs of a dependent family member. Health waivers may be available for some visa subclasses.

Changes in family circumstances after lodgement

Family circumstances can change during visa processing. A primary applicant may marry, enter a de facto relationship, or have a child. In most cases, the new family member can be added to the application before a decision is made, provided the application has not yet been finalized. However, some visa subclasses are restricted: if the visa is points-tested, adding a new spouse may affect the points calculation, and in some cases the new spouse may need to be assessed separately for skills or English language ability.

If a relationship breaks down during processing and a partner who was included as a dependent applicant is no longer part of the family unit, the primary applicant must notify the immigration authority. The dependent's visa application will generally cease to be valid, and the primary applicant's application will be assessed without that person. This can have implications for points calculations and for the overall strength of the application.

Including family members requires careful planning and documentation. The key principles are to establish each relationship with official documents, to ensure every family member meets the health and character standards, and to keep the immigration authority informed of any changes in circumstances. When in doubt about a family member's eligibility, seek professional advice before lodgement rather than risking a refusal that affects the entire family.