Can I Bring My Partner on a Work Visa to Australia?

published on 14 April 2024

Australia is renowned for its dynamic job market and vibrant culture, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking to advance their careers. For those coming to work in Australia on a work visa, such as the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa, a common query arises: "Can I bring my partner with me?" This comprehensive guide explores the possibility of bringing your partner to Australia on a work visa, focusing on the legislative frameworks, visa subclasses, and the requirements necessary for both the primary applicant and their partner.

Understanding the Work Visa Framework

The Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa allows Australian employers to address labor shortages by bringing in genuinely skilled workers where they cannot source an appropriately skilled Australian. This visa comprises three streams: the Short-Term stream, the Medium-Term stream, and the Labour Agreement stream, each designed to cater to different needs and offering varying lengths of stay in Australia.

Partner and Family Member Eligibility

For those holding or applying for a Subclass 482 visa, the Australian government permits the inclusion of family members in the application. This includes partners, dependent children, and other eligible dependent family members. Thus, if you are coming to Australia on a Subclass 482 visa, you can indeed bring your partner with you.

Key Requirements for Partners:

  • Relationship Status: You must prove your relationship status. This includes married couples and de facto partners, which encompasses same-sex relationships. The Department of Home Affairs requires substantial proof of a genuine and continuing relationship.
  • A partner can either be in a de facto relationship and provide evidence of having lived together or be married. 
  • Application Inclusion: Partners must be included in the primary applicant's visa application or can apply to join the primary visa holder in Australia at a later date.
  • Health and Character Checks: All included family members must meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Benefits for Partners

Partners of Subclass 482 visa holders are granted a visa with similar conditions to that of the primary applicant's visa. Importantly, however, partners are not restricted to any specific employer or position and may seek employment freely, contributing significantly to the couple's financial stability and integration into Australian society. Therefore, partners are entitled to work or study in Australia for the duration of the primary applicant's 482 visa. 

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 subclass 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.

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