English Requirement for Dependants on Australian Migration Visas
One of the most common questions is: “Does my partner need to sit IELTS to apply for the subclass 482 visa with me?” The short answer is usually no — but there are some important exceptions.
Dependants on a subclass 482 visa
On a subclass 482 (TSS) visa, dependants (secondary applicants) — that is, the partner and children — do not need to provide their own English test result to be granted the visa.
The English requirement for the subclass 482 applies only to the primary applicant.
Dependants on a subclass 186 visa
The same applies to the subclass 186 (ENS) visa: dependants do not need an English test result to be granted the visa together with the primary applicant.
What dependants can do in Australia
Dependants on a subclass 482 visa have the right to:
- Work in Australia (unrestricted work rights on the secondary 482 visa)
- Study at public schools (with fees for international students in some states)
- Use basic health services (depending on the OVHC arrangement)
English when children enrol in school
Although no English test is required for the visa, children may need to go through an English assessment when enrolling at school. Many schools in Australia have English support programs (ESL/EAL) for students whose first language is not English.
When a dependant wants to apply for their own visa
If a dependant later wants to apply for their own migration visa (for example, a skilled visa in their own name), that is when they need to meet the English requirement for that visa.
This means: your partner does not need IELTS to come with you on your subclass 482 visa, but if they want to apply for a 189/190 in their own right later, they will need to sit their own English test.
Exceptions — some special programs
Some Labour Agreements or special visas may have their own English requirement for dependants. This is rare — check the specific requirement of the visa you are applying for.