Are you a spouse on a dependent visa living in Australia? Are you interested in working in Australia but are not certain if it is allowed? This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand the rules and regulations surrounding whether a spouse on a dependent visa can work in Australia.

Key Takeaways

• Spouses on dependent visas in Australia can work while living in Australia but only under certain circumstances.
• A dependent visa is a temporary visa that allows the spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
• Spouses in Australia on dependent visas can only work after they have been granted special permission to do so by the Department of Home Affairs.
• There are some types of dependent visas that do not allow spouses to work in Australia.
• It is important to seek professional advice from a registered migration agent before making any plans to work in Australia on a dependent visa.

Understanding Dependent Visas

A dependent visa is a temporary visa that allows the spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. Dependent visas are subject to certain conditions, and one of those conditions is the prohibition on working in Australia.

Can Spouses Work on Dependent Visas in Australia?

The general rule is that spouses on dependent visas in Australia cannot work. In some circumstances, however, they may be able to work if they satisfy certain conditions.

To work in Australia on a dependent visa, the spouse will need to apply for and receive special permission from the Department of Home Affairs. To be granted permission, they will need to show that their employment will not adversely affect job opportunities and conditions for Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Types of Dependent Visas That Allow Spouses to Work

Some types of dependent visas allow the spouse of the main visa holder to work in Australia. These visas include:

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS Visa)

The TSS visa is a temporary work visa that allows employers to sponsor foreign workers to fill skilled positions in Australia. If a spouse of a TSS visa holder is listed as a dependent on the visa, they are allowed to work in Australia.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The Skilled Nominated visa allows a skilled foreign worker to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident. If a spouse of a Skilled Nominated visa holder is listed as a dependent on the visa, they are allowed to work in Australia.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 489)

The Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa allows a skilled foreign worker to live and work in regional Australia. If a spouse of a Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa holder is listed as a dependent on the visa, they are allowed to work in Australia.

Types of Dependent Visas That Do Not Allow Spouses to Work

Some types of dependent visas do not allow spouses to work in Australia. These visas include:

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

The Visitor visa is a temporary visa that allows the holder to visit Australia for tourism or business purposes. Spouses on a Visitor visa are not usually allowed to work in Australia.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)

The Working Holiday visa is a temporary visa that allows young adults to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. Spouses on a Working Holiday visa are usually not allowed to work in Australia, but they can study for up to 4 months.

Seek Professional Advice

It is essential to seek professional advice from a registered migration agent before making any plans to work in Australia on a dependent visa. A registered migration agent can assist spouses to explore their options and guide them through the complex visa application process.

Conclusion

If you are a spouse on a dependent visa in Australia and are interested in working, it is important to understand the rules and regulations surrounding employment on this type of visa. While some types of dependent visas do allow spouses to work, others do not, and a special permission to work is required for most dependent visas. Seek professional advice before taking any steps towards working in Australia, as each case is unique and you want to ensure the process is done correctly.

Useful FAQ

Can a spouse on a dependent visa work in Australia without permission?

No, unless they have applied for and been granted permission from the Department of Home Affairs.

What types of dependent visas allow spouses to work in Australia?

Some dependent visas that allow spouses to work include the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS Visa), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 489).

Is it important to seek professional advice before applying for permission to work on a dependent visa in Australia?

Yes, it is essential to obtain advice from a registered migration agent before applying for permission to work in Australia on a dependent visa, as each case is unique and requires personalized guidance.