Family Visa or 482 Subsequent Entrant Visa Guide
Information that you need to know if you plan in getting your family to Australia under your visa.
What is a 482 Subsequent Entrant visa?
The 482 Subsequent Entrant visa, also know as Dependent Visa or Family visa allows eligible family members of a primary 482 visa holder to join them in Australia after the main visa has already been granted.
Who are eligible to apply as a subsequent entrant?
- A spouse or de facto partner
- Dependent children
- Stepchildren or other dependents who meet eligibility requirements
They must be included in the primary visa holder’s family unit.
Where do I find information about my migration agent?
Your visa grant notice will show whether a registered migration agent or law firm handled your original 482 visa application.
Do I need to use the same migration agent?
No. If a migration agent is listed on your visa grant notice, you may contact them for assistance. However, you may also choose to engage your own independent registered migration agent if you prefer.
What documents are usually required?
Requirements may vary, but applicants typically need:
- Identification documents (passports, birth certificates)
- Evidence of relationship to the primary visa holder
- Health insurance
- Police clearances (if applicable)
- Form 80 and other character forms
A migration agent can advise based on your specific situation.
How long does processing take?
Processing times vary depending on:
- Completeness of your application
- Assessment requirements
- Department of Home Affairs workload
Providing accurate documents can help avoid delays.
Can subsequent entrants work or study in Australia?
Yes. Family members on a 482 Subsequent Entrant visa generally have work and study rights aligned with the primary visa holder’s conditions.
Do dependents need health insurance?
Yes. All applicants must maintain adequate health insurance while in Australia unless covered by a reciprocal healthcare agreement.
Do family members need to complete health and character checks?
Yes. Most applicants will need to undergo:
- Medical examinations
- Character checks (e.g., police clearances)
Can dependents apply from outside or inside Australia?
Yes. Subsequent entrants can apply either onshore or offshore, provided they meet visa requirements.
Will adding dependents affect the primary visa holder’s status?
No.Submitting a subsequent entrant application does not change the conditions or validity of the primary visa. Both visas remain linked.
Who can help me lodge a subsequent entrant application?
You can choose to:
- Contact the migration agent listed on your visa grant notice, or
- Engage your own independent registered migration agent
Both options are acceptable, depending on your preference