Moving to Australia is a big dream for many people. But the dream feels complete only when your whole family is with you. In 2026, the Department of Home Affairs made some rules stricter. They want to make sure migration is real and honest. This is called “Genuine Inward Migration.” So, it is very important to fill your application correctly from the first time.
You may be a student, a skilled worker, or a researcher. No matter what, you need to know the Australia Dependent Visa Requirements 2026. This helps your family join you without problems. This guide explains everything in simple words. It gives easy steps for your loved ones.
Defining Your Family: Core Eligibility & Relationships
In Australian immigration rules, a dependent is called a Member of the Family Unit (MoFU). This mostly means your husband or wife, your civil partner, or your children who depend on you.
Key Relationship Categories
- Primary Applicant: This is the main person who has or is applying for the big visa. Examples are Subclass 500 for students or Subclass 482 for work.
- De Facto Relationship: This is very common in Australia. You do not need a marriage paper. But you must show that you and your partner lived together for at least 12 months. You also need to prove you share life together, like home, money, and daily things.
- Combined Application: It is good to add your family when you first apply for your visa. This way is often faster and costs less money.
- Subsequent Entrant: If you are already in Australia on your visa, your family can apply later to join you. They are called subsequent entrants.
You must prove your relationship is real. Use papers like marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, photos, bills together, or letters from friends.
Financial Capacity and Health Mandates
Australia wants families to take care of themselves. In 2026, the rules focus on this. You must show enough money for travel, school for kids, and daily life.
2026 Financial Thresholds
For Subclass 500 (Student Dependent), the main student must prove they can support the family. The living costs are about AUD 29,710 per year for the main person. Add more for family: around AUD 10,394 for a partner, and AUD 4,449 for each child. School costs for kids can be up to AUD 13,502 per year.
For Subclass 482 (TSS Dependent), the employer sponsor often needs to meet an income level. This shows the family will not have money problems.
You can show money with bank statements. The money should be there for some time. Or you can show a government sponsor or loan.
Health and Insurance (Condition 8501)
Every family member must have good health insurance all the time. This is Condition 8501.
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover): For student families, use family cover.
- OVHC (Overseas Visitor Health Cover): For work visa families.
After you apply on ImmiAccount, you get a HAP ID. Use it to do health checks. Everyone may need medical exams.
You must also meet health rules. No big health problems that cost a lot to Australia.
Documentation & The “Genuine Student” Requirement
In 2026, a big change is the full use of Genuine Student (GS) Requirement. This replaces the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE). The government checks if the dependent comes only for family togetherness. Not to work or stay in other ways.
They look at your plans. You must show study or family is the main reason.
Essential Checklist
- Form 919: This is important for student visa dependents. Use it to add family.
- Character Requirement: Everyone over 16 needs police clearance from their home country and other places they lived.
- Biometrics: Go to an Australian Biometric Collection Centre. They take your fingerprints and photo.
- Proof of Funds: Show bank papers or other proof of money for a certain time.
Other papers include passport, photos, relationship proof, and health papers.
Common Visa Subclasses for Dependents
Rules change a little based on the main visa.
- Subclass 500 (Student Dependent) This is for families of students. It focuses a lot on Genuine Student rules. If children go to school, you must enroll them. Work rights for partners are often good, like unlimited work if the student does Masters or PhD.
- Subclass 482 (TSS Dependent) This links to the employer’s sponsorship. The main person must have a good job. Family can join as subsequent entrants. Partners can work without limits. Kids can study.
- Subclass 491/190 (Skilled Regional) These are for skilled workers in regions. They can lead to permanent stay. The whole family must follow residency rules, like living in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can my spouse work on a Dependent Visa?
Yes, in most cases. For partners of students on Subclass 500 (especially Masters or PhD), and on Subclass 482, they usually have full work rights with no limits.
How long does processing take in 2026?
It changes, but often 4 to 7 months for subsequent entrants. Use ImmiAccount right to avoid delays.
Do I need to provide English test results for a dependent visa?
Usually no for temporary visas. But for permanent skilled visas later, English test is often needed.
Start Your Family’s Australian Journey Today
Following Australia Dependent Visa Requirements 2026 needs care and latest information. One missing paper or low money proof can cause refusal. This is sad for families.
Many people succeed when they prepare well. Check official sites always.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify details from trusted sources, such as the Australian Department of Home Affairs, before making decisions.