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October Migration Update: 485 Family Changes, Student Visa Rules and the Next 189 Round

Riverwood Migration

October 8, 2026

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Last updated: 9 October 2026 | General information only, not legal advice.

Since 2 October 2026, most new student visa applications can no longer include a partner or children. The Government has confirmed similar restrictions will apply to the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa, but no start date has been announced.

Under current rules, you can still include family in a 485 application or add them later as subsequent entrants. If you're planning to bring your partner or children on a 485, the safest time to act is now.

What changed for student visas

From 2 October 2026:

Most new student visa applications can no longer include a partner or children
Student visa holders can no longer add family as subsequent entrants, with no exemptions
Limited exceptions at lodgement include PhD students and families already on the student's current visa

The change went from announcement to law in 15 days, with no transition period.

What's coming for the 485 visa

The Government has confirmed similar family restrictions will apply to 485 visas. What we know so far:

Families already in Australia on a 485 will not be separated
Partners and children can still be included or added later under current rules
No start date has been announced

Separately, the Coalition has proposed scrapping most 485 visas. This is a proposal only, not current law.

Who should act now

Your partner is overseas. A combined 485 application generally requires everyone to be in Australia when you lodge, so "lodge first, add them later" is the route most at risk.
You're de facto and planned to sort out your partner's visa after your 485.
Your children weren't included in your application.
You're eligible for a 485 but haven't lodged yet.

Not enough relationship evidence?

Limited evidence doesn't always mean you can't apply. Married couples don't need a minimum time together. De facto couples generally need 12 months, unless the relationship is registered in an Australian state or territory.

Evidence usually covers four areas:

Living together: joint lease, shared bills
Finances: joint account, shared expenses
Social: photos with family and friends, travel together
History: a clear timeline of your relationship

Lodging with weak evidence is risky. So is waiting too long. A migration lawyer can help you weigh both for your situation.

A mistake people don't expect

If you were married or de facto when you applied for an earlier visa but didn't declare your partner, adding them later can become a serious problem. Hiding a relationship to keep things simple usually does the opposite.

189 round expected by 31 October

The next 189 invitation round is expected by 31 October 2026. Check that every points claim in your EOI matches your evidence, and keep an eye on your SkillSelect email. If invited, you'll have 60 days to lodge.

FAQs

Can I still include my partner in a 485 application?
Yes, under current rules. Restrictions have been announced but have no start date yet.

Can I add my partner to my student visa after it's granted?
No. Since 2 October 2026, this is no longer possible, with no exemptions.

Is the 485 visa being scrapped?
Not under current law. The Coalition's plan is an Opposition proposal only.

Get advice before you lodge

A refused 485 is hard to fix, and you may not be able to apply again from within Australia. If family, timing or evidence is involved, speak with a migration lawyer first.

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The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.

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