If your parent is currently in Australia on a Subclass 870 (Sponsored Parent – Temporary) visa and has received a job offer, you might be wondering: can they switch to a Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) visa? It’s a practical question, especially for parents who want to stay longer in Australia and contribute to the workforce.
Can You Apply for a 482 While on an 870 Visa?
Need help with your specific case?
A 30-minute consultation with a MARA-registered migration agent for $85, credited toward your full application.
The good news is that there is generally no restriction preventing an 870 visa holder from applying for a Subclass 482 visa. The 870 visa does not carry conditions that would prevent the holder from lodging a new visa application (unlike some visitor visas that have a No Further Stay condition).
However, there are some important practical considerations to keep in mind before going down this path.
Key Considerations
- Check visa conditions: Before applying, carefully check all the conditions on the 870 visa. While the 870 generally doesn’t have a No Further Stay condition, it’s always worth verifying your specific visa grant.
- Work rights: The 870 visa does allow the holder to work in Australia, so your parent may already be able to take up employment while on this visa.
- Employer sponsorship required: The 482 visa requires an approved sponsor (the employer) to nominate the position and the worker. The employer needs to be an approved Standard Business Sponsor or Labour Agreement holder.
- Skills and qualifications: The 482 visa has specific requirements around skills, qualifications, and work experience for the nominated occupation. The applicant needs to meet these independently of their current visa status.
- Impact on future parent visas: One thing to be aware of is that certain visa applications are restricted for 870 visa holders. For example, you generally cannot apply for a Subclass 143 (Contributory Parent) visa while holding an 870 visa. However, this restriction doesn’t apply to the 482.
The Application Process
If your parent decides to apply for a 482 visa while on an 870, the process would typically involve:
- Employer becomes an approved sponsor (if not already)
- Employer lodges a nomination for the position
- Applicant lodges the 482 visa application while in Australia on their valid 870 visa
- Bridging Visa A is granted to keep the applicant lawful if the 870 expires before the 482 is decided
What About Age?
Since the 870 visa is designed for parents (who may be older), age can be a factor. While there is no maximum age for the 482 visa itself, some occupations and skills assessment bodies may have age-related considerations. It’s worth checking the specific requirements for your parent’s nominated occupation.
Is This the Right Pathway?
Switching from an 870 to a 482 can be a viable option for parents who have skills that are in demand in Australia. It can provide a longer stay, work rights, and potentially a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) visa.
However, every situation is different, and it’s important to understand all the requirements and implications before making this transition. Our team can assess your parent’s eligibility and help determine the best pathway forward.
Related Articles You May Find Useful
- Partner Visa 801 Granted But Your Child’s 445 Visa Is Still Pending: What Now?
- Adding Your Partner to a 482 Visa: Is There a Minimum Relationship Length?
- Visa Refused? How to Request Expedited Processing at the Administrative Review Tribunal
- Wrong Name on Your Visa? How to Correct a Name Error After Your Visa Is Granted
- Offshore Partner Visa (309/100): Can You Get a Bridging Visa to Stay in Australia?
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Visa rules and policies can change, and individual circumstances vary. We recommend booking a consultation with one of our registered migration agents for advice tailored to your specific situation.
Reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services
MARA Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2318017
This article is written and reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services, a MARA-registered migration agency based in Australia. As registered agents, we are bound by the Migration Agents Code of Conduct and required to provide accurate, up-to-date advice based on Australian migration legislation. Information is reviewed against the latest Department of Home Affairs policy.
Clear advice. Practical next steps.
Discuss your circumstances with a registered migration agent
Book a focused 30-minute consultation to understand the options, risks and evidence relevant to your matter.