Visa Solutions for Newborns: What You Need to Know

 

Discover the essential steps for ensuring your newborn gets the correct visa status, even if you forgot to inform immigration right away.

The joy and excitement of welcoming a new baby can easily cause anyone to lose track of to-do lists, especially complex ones involving visa applications. But what happens if your newborn arrives after you lodged your visa application—and you forgot to notify the Department of Immigration? Many new parents find themselves navigating this confusing territory, unsure of the consequences and the next steps to secure their child’s visa status.

This article expands on the guidance offered in our video below, “Visa Solutions for Newborns: What You Need to Know,” and provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown to help you ensure your newest family member is protected and legally recognised in Australia.

 

The Common Scenario: Newborns After Visa Application

It’s a situation more common than you might think—your visa is approved, and soon after, your family welcomes a precious new baby. Amidst the sleepless nights and joyful distraction, it’s easy to forget to inform the Department of Immigration about your newborn. So what should you do now? And is your baby’s visa at risk?

Here’s the reassuring news from the video: a baby born after the visa application is generally taken to have the same visa as their parents from birth. This means the baby’s status typically mirrors the parents’, even if notification is a little late. Importantly, if one or both parents have received permanent residence visas, their newborn is also entitled to Australian citizenship at birth.

 

 Immediate Steps After Your Baby’s Birth

While the policy offers some flexibility, it’s critical to follow these steps to avoid complications and ensure your child’s legal status is clear:

 

1. Obtain Official Documents Promptly

As soon as your baby is born, secure their birth certificate and apply for their passport. These documents are essential for any immigration notification or application, so act quickly.

 

2. Notify the Department of Immigration

Using the same email address you used during your own visa application, send an email to the Department of Immigration. In this email, notify them of your baby’s birth and request that they be granted the same visa that you have received.

 

3. Complete and Submit Form 1022

Form 1022 is the “Change of Circumstances” form required by the Department of Home Affairs. This form notifies the department of changes like a new addition to your family. You can find it easily by searching “Form 1022 Department of Home Affairs” online and you can click here to access the form.

Submit this form along with a copy of your baby’s birth certificate and passport as soon as they are available. You may either post the form or upload it via your IMMI account online.

 

 What to Expect Next

After you have notified immigration and provided the necessary documents, the Department of Immigration will likely request that you complete an application form specifically for your baby. The good news, as highlighted in the video, is that you will not be required to pay another visa application fee for your newborn.

This process is designed to be as smooth as possible, recognising the challenges new parents face and the importance of family unity.

 

The Bottom Line: Don’t Panic—Act!

Forgetting to notify the Department of Immigration immediately after your baby’s birth is understandable. However, by taking the correct steps as soon as possible—securing documents, informing immigration, and completing Form 1022—you can rest assured that your newborn will receive the appropriate visa status.

If your circumstances are complex or you need extra support, don’t hesitate to contact us for personalised assistance.

 

Need further help with a visa or citizenship issue?

Contact AHWC Immigration Law now for clear, experienced advice—your family’s peace of mind is just a conversation away.

Ph +61 3 957 35200

Email: enquiries@ahwc.com.au

Book a consultation here.