482 Dependant Visa Processing Time in 2026: Subsequent Entrant Applications
Updated September 2026. A partner or eligible child who was not included in the primary worker’s original Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) application may be able to apply later as a subsequent entrant.
For family applications, see our Subclass 482 service.
Is there a separate 482 dependant processing time?
Home Affairs directs subsequent entrants to the visa processing-time guide. Published times are based on recently finalised applications and are not specific promises for an individual family member.
Who can apply as a subsequent entrant?
Home Affairs states that certain family members of a primary Subclass 457 or 482 holder may apply separately to join the primary visa holder later.
Does the sponsor need to agree?
Yes. Home Affairs states that secondary applicants must be included in the main applicant’s nomination or provide written evidence that the sponsor agrees the secondary applicant can be a secondary sponsored person.
Common delay factors
- missing sponsor consent;
- weak spouse or de facto relationship evidence;
- birth or custody documents for children;
- health examinations;
- police clearances;
- identity inconsistencies;
- documents not translated correctly; and
- requests for further information.
Can the dependant stay as long as the primary holder?
The subsequent entrant visa generally aligns with the validity of the relevant 482 visa grant, subject to the actual grant terms.
Can dependants work and study?
Secondary applicants should check their own VEVO conditions. The visa framework allows eligible family members to accompany or join the primary holder, but individual conditions should always be confirmed.
Current skilled temporary processing environment
Home Affairs reported a median of 98 days for the broader Skilled (Temporary) visa category for July 2026. This is a category-level median and should not be treated as the processing time for every 482 subsequent entrant.
Official guidance
See Home Affairs’ Subclass 482 subsequent entrant information and its processing-time guidance.
Need help bringing your partner or children?
Emigrate Lawyers can prepare the subsequent entrant application and relationship or dependency evidence. Contact our 482 team.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Processing times change frequently.
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Madhab Kharel
Principal Lawyer & Director, Emigrate Lawyers
Madhab Kharel is the Principal Lawyer and Director of Emigrate Lawyers, an Australian law firm assisting clients across Australia and internationally. His migration law practice includes Partner Visas, Protection Visas, visa refusals and cancellations, Administrative Review Tribunal matters, health and character issues, Schedule 3, Section 48, sponsorship limitations and employer-sponsored migration. He regularly advises clients with complex immigration histories and matters requiring detailed legal submissions and evidence strategy.
Reviewed by Madhab Kharel, Principal Lawyer
Date reviewed: 21 September 2026
