485 family rules commence: combined applications replace subsequent entry
F2026L01500 restricts new family applications from 13 November, with defined eligibility pathways and protection for earlier lodgements.
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Australia Migration NewsPublished 13 Nov 2026 · Development 13 Nov 2026 · Updated 13 Nov 2026
AT A GLANCE
The changes apply to visa applications made from 13 November 2026.
Family applications must be simultaneous and combined with the primary application.
Specified family pathways in new item 1229(3)(e)
Basis
Required connection
Passport
Primary applicant holds a qualifying Pacific-regional or subitem 1222(5A) passport; the explanatory statement identifies Pacific/ASEAN cohorts.
Doctorate
Completed doctoral degree associated with the primary applicant's most recent student visa.
Government funding
Every course associated with that student visa was fully funded by a foreign government.
Newborn child
Child born after the primary applicant's most recent student or 485 grant.
Student-visa history
Secondary student visa linked to the same primary applicant: held currently, on 2 October 2026, or within the preceding six months.
485 history
Secondary 485 linked to the same primary applicant, held currently or within the preceding six months.
Reporting scope: Operative text and relevant explanatory material checked. The table summarises threshold family eligibility; it does not replace the full visa criteria.
What changed
The Temporary Graduate Visa Reform Regulations were registered on 12 November and commenced on 13 November 2026. They remove the separate subsequent-entrant application route. New secondary applications must be lodged with the primary application, rather than after the graduate visa is granted.
Location and status
Primary applicants must apply in Australia. Secondary applicants may apply inside or outside Australia, excluding immigration clearance. An onshore secondary applicant must satisfy subitem 1229(4A): a substantive visa, qualifying BVA/BVB granted on a valid application, or the specified recent ART student-cancellation review outcome.
Earlier applications
Transitional clause 17001 applies these amendments to applications made from commencement. Check the date of the particular application; an existing primary visa does not itself preserve a later separate family application route.
Before lodging
Check the linked visa history and dates for each family member, not merely relationship evidence. New under-18 primary applicants must also meet PIC 4017 and 4018. Consult the operative provisions before paying or lodging.