If I am a Permanent Resident in Australia, Can My Partner Work Under My Visa?

As a permanent resident in Australia, you may wonder about your partner's ability to work under your visa. This article aims to clarify the conditions under which your partner can work during and after your residency.

Work Rights for Your Partner Under Your Visa

Whether your partner can work in Australia under a dependent visa depends on several factors, including the type of your initial visa application and the specifics of the partner visa conditions.

For example, if your partner was included in your initial visa application, there is a possibility they may have work rights, depending on the specific visa type and its conditions. However, if your partner was not included in the initial visa application, they typically would not have work rights associated with your visa.

Eligibility for a Partner Visa for Work Rights

If you are a permanent resident and your partner is not included in your initial visa application, they may still be eligible for a partner visa that grants work rights.

For couples who were initially granted a temporary relationship visa, the partner typically needs to apply for a permanent residence visa, which may include work rights, depending on the visa subclass.

Living as a Couple and Permanent Residency

For couples applying for permanent residency, it is crucial to demonstrate that the relationship is genuine and not for the purpose of acquiring an Australian resident visa. If you are married or in a de facto relationship, you can generally apply for a Partner visa, which allows your partner to live, study, and work in Australia.

Permanent resident partners may eventually be eligible for permanent resident status, but they must meet certain conditions, such as living in Australia for a specific period and establishing strong ties to the country.

Checking Specific Conditions and Regulations

It is crucial to understand the specific conditions and regulations associated with your own visa subclass, as the wording of the visa can limit or grant work rights to your partner.

For example, a partner visa granted specifically as the partner of a permanent resident may not always include the right to work. Therefore, it's essential to review the terms of your visa and consult with an immigration expert or the Department of Home Affairs for accurate information tailored to your situation.

By understanding the eligibility requirements and the conditions attached to your visa, you can ensure that your partner has the necessary work rights to support themselves while in Australia.