Can You Bring Family on a 482 Visa?

published on 15 April 2024

Bringing family members to Australia while on a Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa is an option for many professionals moving to Australia for work. This article outlines the essential details for subclass 482 visa holders considering bringing their family members to Australia, underpinned by the most current legislative frameworks and expert insights from Rocket & Ash Immigration Law.

Overview of the Subclass 482 Visa

The Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by bringing in genuinely skilled workers where employers can't source an appropriately skilled Australian worker. This visa involves a three-stage process: sponsorship by an approved business, nomination for a specific position, and the visa application by the nominated employee.

Family Member Eligibility

Family members of a subclass 482 visa holder can also apply to join the primary visa holder in Australia. According to the current migration regulations, eligible family members include:

  • Spouses or de facto partners: The relationship must be genuine and continuing, and both parties must live together, or not live separately on a permanent basis.
  • Dependent children/step-children: Includes children under 18 years old or children who are financially dependent on the primary visa holder.

Visa Application for Family Members

Family members must apply for their visa either simultaneously with the primary applicant or after the primary applicant has been granted their visa. The family member's application should demonstrate the relationship with the primary visa holder through relevant documentation such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and evidence of dependency.

Conditions and Considerations

  1. Financial support: The primary visa holder must have the financial capacity to support their accompanying family members in Australia.
  2. Health and character requirements: All family members included in the application must meet health and character requirements, which may involve health examinations and police certificates.
  3. Application charges: Additional visa application charges apply for each family member included in the application.

Transition to Permanent Residency

While the subclass 482 visa is a temporary visa, it can lead to permanent residency under certain circumstances, primarily through the Temporary Residence Transition stream. If considering this pathway, it’s important for the primary visa holder and their family members to maintain eligibility throughout their stay in Australia.

About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law

At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialise in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.

If you require assistance with your 482 Work Visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.

Please book a free 15 minute chat with our team if you have further questions.    

Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366

This article does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional.

Read more