Understanding Australia’s Subclass 500 Dependent Visa

The dependent visa Australia subclass 500 turns your overseas study journey into a shared family adventure. This dependent visa pathway is linked with the Student Visa (Subclass 500). It allows international students to bring their dependent family members with them to Australia. The dependent applicant option of the subclass 500 visa also allows your family members to work and enroll in educational programs.

This blog explores the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process of the subclass 500 dependent visa. So, keep reading on!

Must Read: Australia Student Visa Fee – Complete Cost Guide for Subclass 500

What is the Subclass 500 Visa?

The Subclass 500 visa allows international students to live and study full-time in registered courses. It also allows students to bring their dependents with them at the time of visa application or at a later stage. This is a temporary visa, which allows students to live in the Australian region for up to 6 years. The actual validity of the visa depends on the type of course and its length. 

Eligibility Criteria of the Dependent Visa Australia Subclass 500

As the main student visa subclass 500 applicant, your dependents can be your spouse or de facto partner and child. Here are some eligibility criteria applicable to partners and children:

For Partner

To be your partner, the subsequent applicant should be:

• Your spouse, or
• Your de facto partner

For Children

The eligibility for children for this visa is as follows:

• Your child can be adopted or your biological child
• The child should be under 18 years old, unless any exception applies

If your child is above 18 years old, they must be:

• Dependent on you for basic needs for shelter, clothing and shelter, or
• Unable to work or support themselves because of any disability that totally or partially affects their body or mental functions

Also Read: Subclass 500 Dependent & Subsequent Entrant Visa Processing Time in Australia

Australia Student Dependent Visa New Rules

In the past few years, multiple updates have been made to the student visa. The new subclass 500 student visa rules influence both primary and subsequent applicants.

Recent Changes in Regulations

There are three main changes has been made for the subclass 500 visa, which are as follows:

1. Since 1st January 2025, the Letter of Offer has been replaced by the Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for onshore applications.
2. From 1st July 2024, visa holders of Visitor Visa and Temporary Graduate Visa holders cannot apply for the Student Visa while they are in any Australian region.
3. On 23rd March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. This new document mandates applicants to demonstrate that studying is a genuine purpose for coming to Australia.

Also Read: Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Processing Time – Complete Guide

How Do These Dependent Visa Australia Subclass 500 Changes Impact Applicants?

The recent changes to the Australian visa subclass 500 encourage applicants to complete more of the admission process before beginning their visa journey. At the same time, the Genuine Student requirement places a stronger focus on educational objectives.

Dependent of the Student Visa

The dependents of the student visa are their children and spouse or de facto partner. They have to submit all essential documents at the time of visa application.

Documentation Required for Dependents

There are several documents required for the subclass 500 subsequent entrants. These include:

• Passport
• Character Certificate (age 16+)
• Health check-up documents
• Marriage Certificate
• Proof of living together, such as shared bank accounts or photos
• Birth Certificate of dependent child
• OSHC health insurance
• English test scores (Unless exception applies)

You may also take help from immigration Adelaide professionals to ensure that all paperwork meets regulatory requirements.

Must Read: Student Visa Australia Requirements: An Important Guide

What Are the Current Working Hour Limits for Subclass 500 Visa Holders?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) work restrictions are applicable to both the student and applicable dependent family members on the student visa. Working rights can differ based on the level of study undertaken by the primary visa holder.

Work Rights for Dependents

The family members of the main applicant hold similar working rights. Here are some working rights that your dependents can get:

• Family members are permitted to work 48 hours a fortnight while the course is in progress.
• If you are undertaking a Master’s degree by Research or a Doctoral Degree, your family members can work more than 48 hours per fortnight.
• Similarly, if you are undertaking a Master’s Degree by Coursework or a Master’s Degree (Extended), your family members can work more than 48 hours per fortnight. But as the main applicant, you can still only work up to 48 hours a fortnight while your course is in session.

Working when the course is not in session:

• A student visa holder can work more than 48 hours.
• Family members still have limited working rights.

*A fortnight refers to 14 days that start on a Monday.

Limitations and Regulations

There are mainly three limitations for the dependents of student visa holders in Australia. These include:

• Dependents can not start working in Australia until after the main Student Visa holder has commenced their course of study.
• Dependents must adhere to all conditions listed on their visa grant notice.
• The work entitlement available to a dependent partner is determined by the qualification level of the primary student’s course.

Read Also: Read Out This Checklist Of Issues Before You Apply For Student Visa 500

Student Spouse Visa Australia

A separate ‘student spouse visa’ does not exist. Instead, a spouse or de facto partner can be included as a secondary applicant under the Student Visa (Subclass 500) or apply later as a subsequent entrant.

Benefits of the Spouse Visa

There are four main benefits of the Australian student visa 500 for the spouse of the main applicant, which include:

• Spouse or de facto can accompany the primary applicant and stay as long as the student’s visa remains valid.
• Your spouse may work in accordance with the work conditions attached to their visa. 
• Your spouse can travel in and out of Australia till the validity of the visa.
• Your spouse may undertake studies while holding a dependent student visa.

Application Process for Spouses

The submission of the Australia study visa with spouse is a five-step process. These are as follows:

• Step 1: Decide whether your spouse, partner or children will accompany you when you first travel or join you at a later stage.
• Step 2: Prepare all necessary documents, such as identity records, relationship evidence, financial documents and health-related paperwork for every applicant.
• Step 3: Create or log in to your ImmiAccount, complete the Student visa Adelaide or elsewhere application and include all eligible family members who intend to travel with you. 
• Step 4: Upload supporting documents, pay the visa fees, and submit the application online.
• Step 5: Monitor your ImmiAccount and promptly provide any additional information requested.

Also Read: Guide About The Student Visa 500 Process

Conclusion

The Subclass 500 Dependent Visa is directly linked with the Student Visa. With this option, you can seamlessly submit a visa application for your spouse or de facto partner and dependent child. For tailored advice and professional support with your application, consulting the best migration agent in Adelaide can be a valuable step towards achieving your migration goals.

FAQs

1. How long does it usually take to process a dependent SC500 visa application?

The processing time may vary depending on case complexity and application volume. Simple, well-prepared applications are generally processed within a few months.

2. What happens if my supporting documents are not in English?

Documents in other languages generally need to be accompanied by certified English translations.

3. Are my school-aged children allowed to study in Australia?

Yes, dependent children of subclass 500 visa holders are generally allowed to enroll in Australian schools while living in the nation.

4. Can dependents travel separately from the primary student visa holder?

Yes, dependent family members can usually enter or leave Australia independently while their visa remains valid. 

5. Are dependent visa holders permitted to open a bank account in Australia?

Yes, dependent subclass 500 visa holders can generally open an Australian bank account after arrival.