A Dependent Visa, known by different names across countries, allows the family members of lawful residents—whether permanent or temporary—to enter and reside in a foreign country. If you are the spouse or a dependent child (under 18) of a legal resident who is already in or planning to travel abroad, you may be eligible to join them under a dependent visa.
Typically, the primary applicant (the person already residing or moving abroad) must demonstrate financial capability to support both themselves and their dependents without relying on public funds.
Spouses/Partners: Must intend to live together during the stay and prove the relationship is genuine (i.e., not a marriage of convenience).
Children under 18: Must not have formed their own family unit or be living independently.
While the process can be detailed and time-consuming, following the correct procedures at the right time can significantly reduce stress and complications.
Individuals living or working in Canada—under a temporary or permanent visa—can sponsor their spouse/common-law partner, parents, or dependent children to live with them in Canada.
If dependents wish to work, they must apply for a separate work permit.
The sponsor must hold a valid work permit or permanent residence.
Proof of financial capability to support dependents is mandatory.
Spouse: Legal marriage certificate must be provided.
Dependent Children: Proof must show the child is under 22 years old and financially reliant on the parent.
Common-Law Partner: Evidence is required to show the couple lives together at a shared address and the relationship is genuine. An undertaking must also be submitted.
As an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you can sponsor your spouse, de facto partner, children, and parents to join you in Australia.
Subclass 309 and 100: For applicants outside Australia
Subclass 820 and 801: For applicants already inside Australia
This is a two-stage process:
Subclass 309 is the provisional visa, and applicants must be outside Australia when they apply and when the visa is granted.
Subclass 100 is the permanent visa, granted approximately two years later. Applicants can be inside or outside Australia at the time of this decision.
Eligibility:
Married Applicants: The marriage must be legally recognized under Australian law.
De Facto Partners: The relationship must have existed for at least 12 months prior to applying. Mere dating does not qualify.
Applicants must also meet health and character requirements.
This onshore visa process also has two stages:
Subclass 820 is the temporary visa, allowing applicants to stay while awaiting the permanent visa.
Subclass 801 is the permanent visa granted later.
Eligibility Requirements:
Married Applicants: Must be legally married under Australian law.
De Facto Applicants: Must show proof of at least 12 months of relationship before applying. Time spent dating doesn’t count.