Executive Summary
The dependent visa Australia allows international students, skilled migrants, and temporary residents to bring their spouse, family members, or children below 18 years to Australia. This comprehensive guide covers everything about the dependent visa australia subclass 500, including eligibility requirements, application processes, work rights, costs, and processing times for 2026-2027.
Understanding Dependent Visa Australia
Planning to pursue your educational dreams in Australia or already studying there? One of the greatest advantages of studying in Australia is the opportunity to bring your family along on this exciting journey. The dependent visa australia allows you to include your spouse, family member or children below 18 years on your student visa (subclass 500). Understanding the dependent visa Australia subclass 500 requirements and application process is crucial for families looking to reunite in Australia.
A dependant visa Australia enables international students, skilled migrants, and temporary residents to bring their immediate family members to Australia. The dependent visa for student Australia is designed to keep families together while the primary visa holder pursues their educational or professional goals. Thousands of international students bring their families to Australia each year, making it an excellent opportunity for loved ones to explore a new country, learn about different cultures, develop language skills, and build lifelong connections.
For those on a student visa subclass 500, the dependent of student visa provisions allow you to include family members either at the time of your initial application or as subsequent entrants after your visa has been granted. The student dependent visa australia requirements ensure that families can provide adequate support while maintaining compliance with Australian immigration regulations.
Who Can Be Included as Dependents?
Under the dependent visa australia requirements, you can typically include:
- Your partner (spouse, de facto partner, or same-sex partner)
- Your dependent child or children under 18 years of age
- Your partner’s dependent children under 18 years of age
- In certain cases, dependent children between 18-25 years if they are full-time students and financially dependent
For students on a dependent visa student australia, the dependent child visa australia allows children to attend Australian schools. The age limit student visa australia generally sets 18 years as the maximum age for dependent children, though exceptions exist for full-time students who remain financially dependent on their parents.
Types of Dependent Visas in Australia
1. Student Dependent Visa (Subclass 500)
The student dependent visa australia is the most common pathway for families of international students. When you hold a student visa subclass 500, your dependent visa australia subclass 500 allows family members to join you throughout your course duration.
Key Features:
- Duration matches the primary student visa holder’s course length
- Work rights vary based on the primary applicant’s course level
- Access to medicare through Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Multiple entry provisions allowing travel in and out of Australia
2. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)
The guardian visa australia or guardian visa in australia (subclass 590) is specifically designed for parents or legal guardians who need to accompany students under 18 years of age. This student guardian visa subclass 590 ensures young international students have proper care and supervision.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be the parent, legal custodian, or relative who is 21 years or older
- Must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity
- Must provide accommodation, welfare, and support to the student
- Cannot work in Australia on this visa
- Can study English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) for up to 20 hours per week
The second visa application Australia for guardians must be lodged separately from the student’s visa application. As of 2025, fees for the guardian visa in Australia start from AUD 2,000 for the main applicant.
3. Temporary Graduate Visa Dependents (Subclass 485)
Foreign students in Australia who complete their studies can apply for a 485 dependent visa, which allows them to work temporarily in Australia. The dependent of student visa in australia provisions extend to the 485 visa, enabling partners and children to remain in the country while the primary visa holder gains work experience.
Work Rights on 485 Visa:
- Primary 485 visa holders have full work rights
- Spouses can work without restrictions under the 8104 work limitation for spouse provisions
- Provides pathway to skilled migration opportunities
4. Skilled Migration Dependent Visas (Subclass 482, 189, 190)
For those pursuing skilled migration pathways, dependent visa options include:
482 Visa Dependent:
- The 482 visa dependent allows family members of Temporary Skill Shortage visa holders to live and work in Australia
- The 482 visa dependent child age limit generally allows children under 18, with provisions for dependent children up to 23 years in certain cases
- Partners have unrestricted work rights
189 and 190 Visa Dependents:
- Permanent residency visas that include dependent family members
- Full work and study rights for all dependent family members
- Access to Medicare and other government services
5. Partner and Spouse Visas
For those in genuine relationships with Australian citizens or permanent residents:
Partner Visa Categories:
- partner visa student australia (included in student visa applications)
- Spouse visa australia (Subclass 820/801 onshore, 309/100 offshore)
- Partner spouse visa australia requirements include proving genuine and continuing relationship
- Spouse visa australia requirements typically involve relationship evidence, financial documents, and character checks
The student visa to partner visa transition is possible if your relationship develops during your studies in Australia. Many overseas students studying in australia successfully transition to partner visas after establishing qualifying relationships.
6. Parent Visa Categories
For dependent visa australia for parents, several options exist:
- Parent Visa (Subclass 103)
- Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)
- Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)
- Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864/884)
- Sponsored Parent Temporary Visa (Subclass 870)
The australian visa for dependent parents typically requires the Balance of Family Test, where at least half of the sponsor’s children must permanently reside in Australia. The australian visa for parents for 5 years option is available through the subclass 870 Sponsored Parent Temporary Visa.
Comprehensive Dependent Visa Requirements Australia
| Requirement Category | Details | Document Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship Evidence | Proof of genuine relationship with primary visa holder | Marriage certificate, birth certificates, relationship statements, joint financial documents |
| Financial Capacity | Demonstration of sufficient funds to support dependents | Bank statements (minimum 3 months), proof of income, scholarship documents, affidavit of support |
| Health Requirements | Medical examinations by approved panel physicians | Health examination reports, chest X-rays, vaccination records |
| Character Requirements | Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for 12+ months | Police certificates, statutory declarations |
| Insurance Coverage | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) | OSHC/OVHC policy documents covering entire stay period |
| Identity Documents | Valid passports and identification | Passports, national identity cards, birth certificates |
| English Proficiency | May be required depending on visa type | IELTS, PTE, TOEFL scores (exemptions may apply) |
Financial Requirements for Dependents
The australia family visa requirements include specific financial thresholds:
| Category | Annual Living Cost Requirement (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary Student Applicant | $29,710 |
| Partner/Spouse | $10,394 (additional) |
| First Child | $4,449 (additional) |
| Each Additional Child | $3,720 (additional per child) |
| Guardian Visa Holder | Must demonstrate sufficient funds without specific minimum |
These dependent visa requirements for Australia are updated periodically to reflect living costs in Australia.
Student Dependent Visa Australia Working Rights
One of the most important considerations for families is understanding work entitlements:
Work Rights for Student Dependents
For Partners of Students Studying at Bachelor Level or Below:
- Limited to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions
- Unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks
- Work must comply with visa condition 8104 or 8105
For Partners of Students Studying at Masters or PhD Level:
- Unrestricted work rights (full-time work permitted)
- Can work for couples australia without hour restrictions
- Visa condition 8104 work limitation for spouse does not apply
For Dependent Children:
- Generally cannot work unless they hold their own work-authorized visa
- School-age children must attend school
The student visa restriction 8104 or 8105 australia specifically limits work hours for certain visa holders. Understanding these student visa conditions australia is crucial to maintain compliance with gov.au site requirements.
Student Dependent Visa Australia Checklist
To ensure a successful application for dependent student visa australia, prepare:
✓ Identity Documents
- Valid passports for all family members
- Birth certificates for dependent children
- Marriage certificate or relationship evidence
✓ Financial Documents
- Bank statements showing required funds
- Evidence of scholarships or financial support
- Proof of income for working family members
✓ Health and Character Documents
- Health examination certificates from approved physicians
- Police clearance certificates
- Vaccination records
✓ Relationship Evidence
- Photos together spanning the relationship
- Communication records (emails, messages, call logs)
- Joint financial commitments
- Statutory declarations from friends and family
✓ Education Documents (for student visa holders)
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Academic transcripts
- English language test results
✓ Insurance Coverage
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy
- Coverage must extend for entire visa period
How to Apply for Dependent Visa Australia
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Review the australia dependent visa requirements specific to your visa category. For student visa dependent applications, ensure you meet all dependent visa australia requirements including financial capacity and relationship criteria.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all documents from the student dependent visa australia checklist. Ensure documents are:
- Current and valid
- Certified copies where required
- Translated into English by NAATI-certified translators if in another language
Step 3: Create ImmiAccount
Visit the Australian home affairs student visa portal at gov.au site and create an ImmiAccount. This is required for all online visa applications.
Step 4: Complete Application Form
Lodge your application through ImmiAccount:
- Select appropriate visa subclass
- Complete all sections accurately
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay application fees
Step 5: Pay Visa Fees
The dependent visa fee varies by visa type:
| Visa Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) | Additional Applicants 18+ (AUD) | Additional Applicants Under 18 (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa (500) – Primary | $1,600 | $1,200 | $400 |
| Partner Visa (820/801) | $9,095 | $4,550 | $2,280 |
| Guardian Visa (590) | $2,000 | $400 (under 18) | – |
| 482 Visa | $3,035 | $1,520 | $760 |
| 485 Graduate Visa | $1,895 | $1,895 | $950 |
Fees are subject to annual indexation typically occurring on 1 July each year. The student dependent visa fee australia represents a significant investment in your family’s future.
Step 6: Attend Biometrics and Health Examinations
After lodging your application:
- Attend biometric collection if required
- Complete health examinations at approved panel clinics
- Submit police certificates from relevant countries
Step 7: Wait for Decision
Processing times vary significantly:
| Visa Type | 75% Processed Within | 90% Processed Within |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa (500) | 2 months | 4 months |
| Guardian Visa (590) | 4 months | 6 months |
| Partner Visa (820) | 20 months | 29 months |
| 485 Graduate Visa | 5 months | 7 months |
Check visa processing times regularly at the Department of Home Affairs website. You can track your application status through your ImmiAccount and use ind/fam identifiers for family applications.
Step 8: Receive Visa Decision
If approved, you’ll receive:
- Visa grant notification
- Travel facilitation letter
- Visa conditions summary
- VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) access
Special Provisions: Student Subsequent Entrant Visa
If you didn’t include family members in your initial application, the 500 subsequent entrant visa or student subsequent entrant visa allows them to join you later. The student visa subsequent entrant process requires:
- Primary visa holder must have declared family members in original application
- Subsequent entrant application lodged separately
- Must meet all standard dependent visa requirements
- Additional fees apply
The bringing family australia guide student subsequent visa pathway is common for students whose family circumstances change after arriving in Australia. This flexibility ensures families aren’t permanently separated due to initial application decisions.
Dependent Visa for Siblings: Can You Sponsor Siblings?
A common question is about visa for siblings in australia. Generally, dependent visa australia provisions don’t include siblings. The can you sponsor your siblings to australia question typically has limited options:
- Siblings aren’t considered dependents for standard visas
- Family reunion visa australia has strict criteria
- Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) exists but has stringent requirements
- Can i bring my nephew to australia permanently? Generally no, unless through adoption or guardianship arrangements
The sibling visa australia and family sponsorship australia options are significantly more restricted than dependent provisions for spouses and children.
Partner and Spouse Visa Considerations
Student to Partner Visa Transition
Many international students develop relationships during their studies, leading to student visa to partner visa applications. This transition involves:
- Demonstrating genuine and continuing relationship
- Meeting the sponsor family member to australia criteria
- Providing extensive relationship evidence
- Understanding that student visas don’t automatically lead to partner visas
Spouse Visa Australia Requirements
The spouse visa australia requirements include:
Relationship Evidence:
- At least 12 months cohabitation for de facto relationships
- Marriage certificate for married couples
- Joint financial commitments
- Social recognition of relationship
- Shared household responsibilities
Financial Requirements:
- No specific income threshold for onshore applications
- Must show ability to support spouse financially
- Cannot access public funds
Application Process:
- Apply for spouse visa australia through ImmiAccount
- Spouse visa process australia typically takes 20-29 months
- Partner visa help available through registered migration agents
- Apply for australian partner visa with complete documentation
The spouse visa requirements australia are regularly updated, so checking gov.au site for current information is essential.
Special Categories and Considerations
Dependent Parents on Temporary Visas
The sponsor relatives to australia visa options for parents include:
- How to sponsor relatives to australia depends on your citizenship/PR status
- Affidavit of support requirements apply to parent visas
- Australia affidavit of support ensures sponsors can financially support parents
- Long waiting periods apply to non-contributory parent visas
Age Restrictions and Study Limitations
Important age-related considerations:
- Age limit for study visa in australia is typically 18 for dependents
- Australian student visa age limit doesn’t apply to primary applicants
- Can i study on 482 visa? Yes, family members can study
- Australia minor visa holders must have appropriate welfare arrangements
Visa Condition Compliance
Critical visa conditions to understand:
- Visa condition 8104 limits work to 48 hours per fortnight
- Student visa restriction 8104 applies during course sessions
- Student visa conditions australia must be strictly followed
- Australian student visa conditions 500 subsequent entrant visa have same work restrictions
- gov.au site allows you to check your visa conditions online
Important Dates and Timing Considerations
Recent Policy Changes (2025)
- International bf day 2024 has no impact on visa applications
- Travel to uk from australia visa requirements depend on citizenship
- Australia family visa caps australia may limit certain parent visa categories
- Ind/fam indicators help track family-related applications
Financial Year Updates
Visa fees typically increase on 1 July each year. Recent changes include:
- Spouse visa charges australia increased to $9,095 base fee
- Dependent visa fee increased across most categories
- Family visa sponsorship australia requirements updated annually
Support Services and Resources
Health Insurance Requirements
All dependent visa holders must maintain health insurance:
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for student visa holders
- OVHC (Overseas Visitors Health Cover) for guardian visa holders
- Can international students get immicard? No, Immicard is for certain eligible migrants
- Fam australia health services available through OSHC providers
Banking and Financial Services
Setting up finances in Australia:
- Family in australia can access major banks
- Commonwealth bank account opening processes available for students
- Work for couples australia opportunities exist with proper visa conditions
Education for Dependent Children
Children on dependent visas:
- Must enroll in Australian schools from age 5-6
- Education costs vary between public and private schools
- Australian student visa conditions for families include education compliance
- Australian family planning resources available through student services
Common Challenges and Solutions
Visa Refusals and Appeals
If your dependent visa application is refused:
- Review the refusal letter carefully
- Understand grounds for refusal
- Consider Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) appeal
- Seek professional migration advice
- Reapply with strengthened evidence if appropriate
Document Verification Issues
Common documentation problems:
- Incomplete bank statements
- Unverified translations
- Missing relationship evidence
- Insufficient financial proof
- Character or health issues
Processing Delays
Factors affecting processing times:
- Complete applications process faster
- Health examination delays
- Police certificate delays from overseas jurisdictions
- Peak application periods
- Additional information requests from Department
Tips for Successful Applications
1. Plan Early
- Start gathering documents 3-4 months before applying
- Understand all dependent visa australia requirements
- Budget for all costs including unexpected expenses
2. Be Thorough
- Provide complete, accurate information
- Don’t omit any required documents
- Organize documents logically
- Include detailed relationship evidence
3. Understand Work Rights
- Research student dependent visa australia working rights
- Understand visa condition 8104 restrictions
- Know when unlimited work rights apply
- Plan family finances accordingly
4. Maintain Compliance
- Keep visa conditions in mind
- Maintain health insurance continuously
- Update Department of address changes
- Maintain course enrollment if required
5. Seek Professional Help When Needed
- Consider registered migration agents for complex cases
- Use official resources
- Attend pre-departure briefings
- Join support groups for international students
Bringing Baby Born in Australia on Student Visa
A special consideration: if baby born in australia on student visa, the child doesn’t automatically receive Australian citizenship. You must:
- Notify Department of Home Affairs of the birth
- Apply for the child to be added to your visa
- Provide birth certificate
- Update health insurance to include the baby
- Understand citizenship vs visa status
Conclusion
Understanding the dependent visa australia landscape is crucial for international students and skilled migrants planning to bring their families. Whether you’re applying for a dependent child visa australia, spouse visa for australia documents required, or guardian visa australia, thorough preparation and understanding of australia dependent visa requirements will significantly improve your chances of success.
The student dependent visa australia provides valuable opportunities for families to stay together while pursuing educational and professional goals in Australia. With proper planning, complete documentation, and compliance with visa conditions, families can enjoy the Australian experience together.
For personalized assistance with your dependent visa application, consultation with registered migration agents or official resources at gov.au site is recommended. The journey to reuniting your family in Australia begins with understanding these requirements and preparing a strong, complete application.
Remember that visa for family australia opportunities extend beyond student visas to include various family visa categories, skilled migration pathways, and temporary graduate options. Each pathway has specific australia family visa requirements that must be carefully met.
Whether you’re considering how to apply for spouse visa australia, exploring family visa for australia options, or planning to sponsor family members, this comprehensive guide provides the foundation for understanding dependent visa provisions. Success comes from thorough preparation, complete documentation, and strict adherence to all visa conditions and australian home affairs requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions on Dependent Visa Australia
What is a dependent visa australia?
A dependent visa australia allows eligible family members such as a spouse, partner, or dependent children to live in Australia with the primary visa holder. It is commonly used with student visas, skilled visas, and temporary graduate visas under australia dependent visa rules.
Is dependant visa australia and dependent visa the same?
Yes, dependant visa australia and dependent visa mean the same thing. The spelling differs between British and American English, but both are used interchangeably in Australian immigration.
What is a dependent visa student australia?
A dependent visa student australia allows family members of an international student to accompany them while studying. It is granted under dependent visa australia subclass 500 and is also known as student dependant visa australia or student dependent visa australia.
Who can be included in a student dependent visa australia?
Under a student visa dependent, you can include your spouse or partner and dependent children under 18. These applicants are referred to as dependent of student visa, dependent of student visa in australia, or student visa dependant.
What are the student dependent visa australia requirements?
The student dependent visa australia requirements include proof of genuine relationship, financial capacity, health insurance, health checks, and character clearance. These conditions also form part of dependent visa australia requirements and australia dependent visa requirements.
Can dependents work in Australia on a student visa?
Yes, under student dependent visa australia working rights, spouses may work full time if the primary student is enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree. Work is regulated by 8104 visa condition, visa condition 8104, and other student visa conditions australia.
What is visa condition 8104 and 8105?
Visa condition 8104 and student visa restriction 8105 limit work hours for students and dependents. These rules fall under student visa restriction 8104 or 8105 and must be followed to avoid visa cancellation.
How much is the student dependent visa fee australia?
The student dependent visa fee australia depends on the number of dependents and whether they apply together or later. Applicants often search for australia student dependent visa fees or dependent visa fee when budgeting.
What is a student visa subsequent entrant?
A student visa subsequent entrant or student subsequent entrant visa allows dependents to apply after the main student visa is granted. This is common when families join later due to financial or timing reasons.
Can I bring my child under dependent child visa australia?
Yes, children under 18 can be included under dependent child visa australia as part of a dependent student visa or student visa dependent australia application.
Is there an age limit student visa australia for dependents?
Children must generally be under 18. Questions around age limit student visa australia, age limit for student visa in australia, student visa age limit australia, and australian student visa age limit usually relate to student eligibility, not dependents.
What happens if baby born in australia on student visa?
If if baby born in australia on student visa, the child must be added to the existing visa or apply for a new dependent visa australia to remain lawful.
Can I bring siblings or nephews to Australia?
There is no direct visa for siblings in australia or australia sibling visa. Queries like can you sponsor your siblings to australia or can i bring my nephew to australia permanently usually require alternative skilled or family visa pathways.
What is the 485 dependent visa?
The 485 dependent visa allows dependents to stay in Australia when the primary visa holder moves from a student visa to a Temporary Graduate visa.
Can dependents be added to a 482 visa?
Yes, partners and children can be added under 482 visa dependent, but 482 visa dependent child age limit rules apply. Many also ask can i study on 482 visa, which is permitted in limited cases.
What is student partner visa australia?
Student partner visa australia allows a student’s spouse or partner to stay in Australia. It overlaps with student spouse visa australia, partner visa student australia, and visa partner australia pathways.
What documents are required for spouse visa for australia?
Spouse visa for australia documents required include marriage certificates, relationship evidence, joint financial documents, and identity proofs. These are part of spouse visa australia requirements and spouse visa requirements australia.
Can I apply for spouse visa australia while on student visa?
Yes, many applicants move from student visa to partner visa and later apply for spouse visa australia or apply for partner visa australia.
How to sponsor family member to Australia?
To sponsor family member to australia, eligibility depends on the visa category. Options include family visa sponsorship australia, family reunion visa australia, and other family visas australia subject to family visa caps.
Can parents come to Australia on dependent visa?
Parents cannot be dependents under student visas. They may explore australian visa for dependent parents or australian visa for parents for 5 years under australia family visa programs.
How can I check my dependent visa status?
You can verify visa conditions and work rights through www.homeaffairs.gov.au/vevo, which shows live status for visa dependent australia holders.
Can international students get ImmiCard?
Yes, many ask can international students get immicard, which is available in limited cases for identification purposes.
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