Adopting a child is a life-changing commitment—and once the legal process is complete, the final step is bringing your child to live with you in Australia. The Adoption Visa (Subclass 102) makes that possible, giving your child permanent residency from day one.
At Questra, we know adoption journeys are deeply personal and sometimes complex. We’re here to support you with the visa side—clearly, compassionately, and professionally.
Who Is the Adoption Visa For?
This visa is for children adopted (or in the process of being adopted) by an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen.
The child must be outside Australia when the application is lodged and granted
It’s a permanent visa, offering full rights to live, study, and access Medicare in Australia
Eligibility Checklist
| For the Child |
For the Parent (Sponsor) |
| Under 18 when adopted, when applying, and when visa is decided |
Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen |
| Offshore at time of application and decision |
Legally adopted the child, or formally adopting through recognised process |
| Single (not married, engaged, or in a de facto relationship) |
Has full legal parental responsibility |
| Meets health & character requirements |
Meets character requirements |
What Types of Adoptions Are Recognised?
| Adoption Type |
Description |
| Intercountry Adoption |
Arranged through an Australian state/territory authority—usually under the Hague Convention |
| Expatriate Adoption |
Adoption by Australians living overseas (12+ months) under local laws—not to bypass Australian laws |
| Private Adoption |
Rarely recognised unless it meets strict legal criteria—seek advice first |
Step-by-Step: How the Process Works
The adoption must be legally recognised—either through Australian central authorities or accepted overseas processes.
Step-by-Step: How the Process Works
 You’ll need:
- Final adoption papers
- Child’s passport and birth certificate
- Your citizenship or residency proof
Evidence of full parental responsibility
Step-by-Step: How the Process Works
Submit the Subclass 102 visa through ImmiAccount while the child is still offshore.
Step-by-Step: How the Process Works
Medical exams are required. If your child is 16+, police clearances may also apply.
Step-by-Step: How the Process Works
These visas can take time. We’ll stay on top of updates and keep you informed throughout.
Step-by-Step: How the Process Works
Once approved, your child can travel to Australia and begin their new life as a permanent resident.
- Finalise the Adoption
- Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents
- Step 3 – Lodge the Application
- Step 4 – Health & Character Checks
- Step 5 – Visa Processing
- Step 6 – Visa Granted
Adoption Visa – Processing Times
The processing duration for visas depends on the visa stream and applicant profile together with government workload requirements. The official government source provides the most accurate and current information about visa processing times.
đź”— Check current visa processing times
Subclass 102 - FAQ
Does this visa lead to citizenship?
Yes. Once your child holds a permanent visa, they may be eligible for citizenship by conferral without needing to meet the usual residency requirements—if they’re under 18.
Can I apply if it was a private adoption overseas?
 It depends. Private adoptions are rarely recognised unless they meet very specific criteria. We recommend a detailed legal review before applying.
How is this different from the Child Visa (Subclass 101)?
The 101 visa is for biological or step-children. The 102 is specifically for legally adopted children.
Let Questra Support You Through the Final Step
You’ve already made the biggest decision—welcoming a child into your life. Now let us help bring them home. With so many legal details and timing rules to manage, it’s important to get everything right from the start.
Speak to Questra today about your Adoption Visa and take the final step toward completing your family in Australia.
Book a Consultation