If your child is born after you lodge your visa application but before a decision is made, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs immediately. This ensures your newborn receives the correct visa status and avoids delays in processing.
What to Upload via ImmiAccount
- Form 1022 – Notification of Changes in Circumstances
- Australian birth certificate (or overseas certificate with English translation)
- Passport scan (if available)
- Form 1229 – Consent to Grant an Australian Visa to a Child
- Identification documents for both parents
Tip: If your baby is born in Australia while you hold a substantive visa, they will usually receive the same visa by operation of law. However, you must still notify the Department for the visa to be formally granted.
Adding a Dependent to a Pending 482 or 186 Visa Application
If your child or partner was born after your Subclass 482 or 186 visa was lodged, you can request to include them before the visa is granted.
Steps to Add a Dependent:
- Upload a written request via ImmiAccount
- Submit Form 1436 – Adding an Additional Applicant After Lodgement
- Attach proof of Visa Application Charge (VAC) payment
- Provide all required ID and relationship documents (passport, birth/marriage certificate, etc.)
Expert Tip: Submit strong identity and relationship evidence to avoid unnecessary processing delays.
Adding Dependents to a Subclass 494 Visa Application
For Subclass 494 visa applications still under assessment, you can generally add dependent children born in Australia by submitting:
- Form 1436 – Additional applicant request
- Identity and relationship evidence
- VAC payment proof
However, if you’re adding a spouse or de facto partner, they must apply separately as a Subclass 494 Subsequent Entrant and meet health, character, relationship and other relevant criteria once your subclass 494 visa has been granted.
Already Hold a Subclass 482 Visa?
If you already hold a Subclass 482 visa and now wish to bring your spouse, de facto partner, or dependent child to Australia, they must apply as a Subsequent Entrant.
About the 482 Subsequent Entrant Visa
The Subclass 482 Subsequent Entrant Visa allows eligible family members to join a primary 482 visa holder in Australia after the original visa has been granted. This pathway is suitable for partners and dependants who weren’t included in the initial application.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Relationship: You must be the spouse, de facto partner, or dependent child of a 482 visa holder
- Employer Sponsorship: You need a letter from the 482 sponsor agreeing to extend sponsorship to the family member
- Health and Character: All family members must satisfy health and character checks
- Supporting Documents: Evidence of relationship and identity must be provided
Once granted, the subsequent entrant visa usually provides the same length and conditions as the primary 482 visa, including the ability to work and study (subject to visa conditions).
Key Reminders
- Notify the Department as soon as your family circumstances change
- Upload clear and complete documents via ImmiAccount
- Use the correct Departmental forms to avoid refusal
- Seek professional advice if you’re unsure about eligibility
- Note: Once a visa is granted, you may not be able to add dependents to the same application
Need Help Adding a Family Member to Your Visa?
At Tolic Lawyers, we support individuals, families, and employers with:
- Adding dependents and newborns to 482, 186, 494, and partner visa applications
- Preparing subsequent entrant visa applications
- Managing communications with the Department of Home Affairs
- Ensuring all legislative and procedural requirements are met
Get in touch today for tailored and prompt migration advice.
Disclaimer: Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Migration laws and policies change frequently, and the application of these laws can vary based on individual circumstances. You should not act or rely on any information contained in this blog without seeking professional advice specific to your situation. Tolic Lawyers does not accept any liability for actions taken in reliance upon the information provided.
If you require tailored advice regarding your visa or migration matter, please contact a qualified migration professional.
