Visa 482 Cancelled: How Dependants Are Affected
A dependant’s 482 visa (spouse, children) is granted in connection with the primary applicant’s visa. When the primary holder’s visa runs into trouble, the dependants’ visas are affected too — understanding this helps a family plan ahead.
How a dependant 482 visa works
The 482 visas held by a spouse and children are not independent visas — they are “dependent visas” tied to the primary 482 visa. This means:
- The dependent visa usually has the same validity period as the primary visa
- When the primary visa is cancelled, the dependent visas are affected too
When the primary holder loses their job
Losing a job does not immediately cancel a 482 visa. The primary holder has a period of 180 days from the date employment ceases to:
- Find a new employer and transfer the nomination
- Apply for a different visa
- Or leave Australia
During this period the primary holder’s 482 visa remains valid — and so do the dependent visas.
If the primary holder does not find a new employer within 180 days: the primary 482 visa is cancelled → the dependent visas are cancelled in turn → the whole family needs to leave Australia or hold a substitute visa.
When the primary 482 visa is refused or cancelled for another reason
If the primary holder’s 482 visa is cancelled by the Department (for breaching a condition, on character or health grounds, or for another reason):
- The spouse and children’s dependent visas are also cancelled or will be cancelled
- The whole family must leave Australia unless they hold a substitute visa
Can a dependant apply for an independent visa?
In some situations a dependant may apply for a visa in their own right:
Spouse: if eligible, they may apply for their own 482 visa with their own employer — no longer dependent on the primary holder’s visa.
Student: children studying in Australia may apply for a student visa (500) if they are of age and enrolled in an eligible course.
Partner visa: if they have a partner who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, they may apply for a partner visa (820/801 or 309/100).
Work rights of dependants while changing visas
During the 180 days period after the primary holder loses their job, the dependent visas remain valid. Dependants can continue to work under the conditions of their own dependent visa (usually full work rights).
Preventive advice
To protect the family in case the primary holder loses their job:
- Transfer the nomination early as soon as there are signs of job loss — don’t wait until the last minute
- If a dependant is skilled: consider applying for their own 482 in parallel so the family is not entirely dependent on the primary visa
- Understand that 180 days is a hard deadline — it cannot be extended
Always confirm your specific circumstances against current official Department of Home Affairs guidance.