Adoption visa 102
For a child adopted, or being adopted, outside Australia by an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
In force
Who it is for
A child adopted, or being adopted, outside Australia by an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, through state or territory central authorities or an expatriate adoption.
Main requirements
- Under 18 when applying.
- Health, character and the best interests of the child.
- Children adopted under full Hague or bilateral arrangements may instead be eligible for citizenship by adoption.
Where you apply from
Outside Australia.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- First enquiry
You tell us your current visa, where you are, your family and any past refusals or cancellations.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent identifies your current visa, its conditions and expiry, and any early risk. - Adoption process
Adoption runs through the state central authority and adoption law, which is outside migration law.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent refers adoption law questions to the central authority and an Australian legal professional. - Service agreement
Before any personal advice or preparation, you receive a written service agreement and the OMARA Consumer Guide.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent sets out the work, the fee and the refund policy in writing. No money is taken for visa work before the agreement is signed. - Visa application
Lodge with adoption papers.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent prepares the visa application. - Grant
Permanent residence.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent explains citizenship options.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | A$4,040 |
| Family member 18 or over | A$2,020 |
| Family member under 18 | A$1,015 |
Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs Global visa processing times, updated 29 September 2026 (applications finalised to 31 August 2026). Read 22 October 2026. A guide only, not a promise.
| Adoption | 50% in 8 months, 90% in 19 months |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Adoption not meeting the requirements.
- Health or character.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Application
Recent and upcoming changes
No recent changes are listed for this visa. Check the Home Affairs page for the latest information.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.