Compiled from real cases, with clear steps — worth saving.

We’ve received many enquiries recently:“My 485 visa has already been granted. Can I still add my partner now?”

The answer is YES.This guide covers all requirements, processes and document checklists specifically for the scenario: primary applicant already approved, adding a partner later. Purely practical information.

1. Basic Eligibility: What Does the Secondary Applicant Need?

• Application can be lodged either onshore or offshore
• No English test required
• Must pass health examination and police clearance (police certificate from any third country where you lived for 12 months or more is required)

2. How to Prepare Relationship Evidence?

The Department of Home Affairs recognises two types of eligible relationships:

Case 1: Married or registered de facto relationship

The 12-month cohabitation requirement is not mandatory,but you still need to provide evidence proving the relationship is genuine and continuing.

Case 2: Unmarried and not registered de facto

Generally requires evidence of at least 12 months of cohabitation.Insufficient documentation often leads to a request for further information or visa refusal.

Tip:Even with a registered relationship, it’s safer to prepare at least 6 months of shared household evidence.

3. Lodgement Options Based on Current Locations

• Primary applicant in Australia, secondary applicant offshore→ Must wait until primary applicant is approved, then lodge a separate application for the partner (this is the “add later” method)
• Both primary and secondary applicants in Australia→ Can apply together, or add the partner after the primary visa is granted

Note:Fees vary by lodgement method.The secondary visa validity is tied to the primary applicant’s visa.

4. Document Checklist for Adding a Partner to 485 (Compiled from actual successful cases)

① Identity & Basic Documents

• Secondary applicant’s passport
• Birth certificate (notarised)
• National ID card
• Passport photos
• Travel records (passport entry/exit stamps)

② Police Checks & Health

• Chinese police clearance certificate (notarised)
• Australian AFP national police check
• Health examination (usually notified by the Department; recommended to prepare in advance)

③ Core Relationship Evidence

• Marriage certificate or registered de facto certificate (if applicable)
• Rental lease in both names (Australia or overseas)
• Joint bank account statements (minimum 6 months recommended)
• Utility bills (electricity, gas, water) in both names
• Mail or delivery records to the same address
• Flight tickets and hotel bookings for shared travel
• Couple photos (preferably with family or friends)

④ Supporting Statement

• Love story: 800–1000 words Covers relationship timeline, long-distance or cohabitation experience, future plans, supported by photos and evidence.

⑤ Insurance

• OVHC (Overseas Visitor Health Cover)

5. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Does the secondary applicant have to be in

Australia?No. Application can be lodged directly from overseas.

Q2: Does the secondary applicant need IELTS or PTE?

No English test is required.

Q3: Who creates the ImmiAccount for the 485 secondary applicant?

The secondary applicant registers their own account and lodges the application independently.

Q4: Can the secondary applicant work full-time once the bridging visa is active?

Yes, full-time work is permitted once the bridging visa is in effect.

Q5: What if the relationship ends?

The secondary applicant can cancel their own visa voluntarily.This will not affect the primary applicant’s visa.