Currently working with dependent visa. Expires later this year. Can I apply for my own visa now?
Currently working with dependent visa. Expires later this year. Can I apply for my own visa now?
Yes, but dependent visa is better as it allows you to switch jobs without needing a new visa.
Your employer applies for you.
Everyone I've employed on a dependent visa chooses to change to GEP.
Depending on stability of GEP holder's job, good to have a backup with spouse GEP as if the primary job goes, that spouse can immediately change to dependent status under the other GEP. If primary GEP goes and other is dependent, both are in the craperoo.
I am referring to GEP visa holders, that having two protects both in case GEP holder loses the job, they can become dependent under the other's GEP.
Different matter if PR and dependent, no risk of PR losing right to work.
Personally I would say if employer accepts taking on GEP vs dependent visa, do it. Leads to independence too, nothing will happen to employment if the relationship ends, as employed in their own right. This comes from having to deal with a couple of dependent visa employees some years back when a split occurred.