Can You Have Your Family Come with You to Australia? | Visa Options & Requirements Explained
If you’re planning to study, work, or migrate to Australia, a common and important question is:
The good news is — yes, you can!
Australia offers several visa options that allow you to include or sponsor family members, depending on your visa type and situation.
Let’s explore how you can bring your loved ones along and what the process looks like.
Who Can You Bring to Australia?
In most visa cases, you can bring:
- Your spouse or de facto partner
- Your dependent children
- In some cases, other dependents like elderly parents (under special visas)
If You’re on a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Yes! Student visa holders can bring their spouses/partners and children as dependents.
- Your partner can work part-time (and full-time if you’re studying a Master’s or PhD).
- Children can attend school in Australia.
- Dependents apply as part of your visa or can apply later under a subsequent entrant visa.
2. If You’re on a Work Visa (Subclass 482, 494, etc.)
Most temporary skilled work visas allow you to include your partner and children.
- Your family gets the same visa duration as you.
- Your partner usually has full work rights.
- Kids can attend school or daycare, depending on their age.
3. If You’re Applying for Skilled Migration (Subclass 189, 190, 491)
Skilled visas let you include family members at the time of application or later as subsequent entrants.
- These visas often lead to permanent residency, giving your family access to Medicare, schooling, and work rights.
- If you’re applying solo, you can still sponsor them later after being granted the visa.
Family Visas (Partner, Parent, Child Visas)
If you’re already in Australia as a citizen or permanent resident, you can sponsor family through specific family visas:
- Partner Visa (820/801 or 309/100)
- Parent Visa (Temporary or Permanent)
- Child Visa
What Documents Do You Need to Bring Your Family?
Every situation is unique, but generally, you’ll need:
- Marriage certificate or relationship proof
- Birth certificates for children
- Passport copies
- Health and character documents
- Proof of financial capacity
- Evidence of relationship (photos, messages, shared bills, etc.)
Can Family Members Work or Study?
Yes — in most cases:
- Partners can work, depending on the primary visa holder’s type.
- Children can attend school, often for free if you’re a permanent resident.
- Some dependents can even study without needing a separate student visa.
Final Thoughts: Bringing Your Family to Australia
Yes, you can bring your family with you — and in many cases, it’s encouraged!
Whether you’re coming as a student, skilled worker or applying for permanent residency, Australia provides clear pathways for keeping your family together.
Make sure to:
- Check visa conditions
- Prepare required documents
- Meet financial and relationship proof requirements
