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Navigating the Australian Partner Visa Process: Tips and Facts

Leading Edge

Partner Visa Agent Perth


Reuniting couples or enabling partners to join their Australian spouses is made possible through the Australian Partner Visa. While this can be a transformative experience, it involves a certain level of complexity. This blog aims to outline the different partner visa options available and offer crucial guidance and information to help you effectively navigate the application process for the Australian Partner Visa.


Here are the three Partner Visa options to consider:


1. Subclass 309/100 (Offshore Partner Visa) :

The Partner Visa Subclasses 309/100 are designed for individuals who are located outside of Australia at the time of application and are either married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa involves a two-stage process:


Stage 1 - Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309): During the initial stage, applicants can apply for a temporary visa that enables them to enter and stay in Australia with their partner. The Subclass 309 visa is valid until a decision is reached on the second stage (Subclass 100). Eligible applicants can seek the 100 visa two years after lodging their 309 application, with the requirement to demonstrate the authenticity of their relationship.


Stage 2 - Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100): Following a waiting period, typically two years from the temporary visa application date, applicants can apply for the permanent partner visa. The criteria for an ongoing relationship are once again applicable, and if approved, this visa allows individuals to permanently reside in Australia with their partner.


2. Subclass 820/801 (Onshore Partner Visa):

The Subclass 820/801 Partner Visa is designed for individuals who are currently residing in Australia and are either married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa process consists of two stages:


Stage 1 - Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820): The initial phase involves applying for a temporary visa that allows you to live in Australia with your partner. Just like the offshore visa, meeting the relationship and eligibility criteria is essential to obtain this visa. The Subclass 820 is temporary and remains valid until a decision is reached regarding your permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801).


Stage 2 - Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801): Typically, applicants need to wait for two years after applying for the Subclass 820 visa before becoming eligible for the permanent visa. To qualify, you must prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. Once approved, the permanent partner visa provides unrestricted residency in Australia and access to various benefits, such as Medicare, the opportunity for Australian citizenship, and assistance from Centrelink.


3. Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300):

The Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) is intended for individuals who intend to marry an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and then live in Australia. This visa allows the recipient to enter and stay in the country for a maximum of nine months to get married. After marriage, the visa holder can apply for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) to continue living in Australia with their spouse.


This option is suitable for individuals in genuine, committed relationships who may not have all the required documentation yet for a Partner Visa application. The Prospective Marriage Visa has less strict relationship proof requirements compared to a Partner Visa. Unlike a Partner Visa, it does not mandate that applicants and sponsors have cohabited or formally registered their relationship at the time of application.


Various forms of communication, such as letters, phone calls, faxes, emails, and online exchanges, can be used as evidence to demonstrate the couple's familiarity with each other.


Having this information will enable you to tackle your Partner Visa application with more confidence and clarity.



Eligibility Criteria-

Prior to submitting an application for an Australian Partner Visa, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria. Presented below are the requirements that need to be met:

  1. Being married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen is mandatory.

  2. The relationship must be authentic, committed, and enduring.

  3. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  4. All applicants must satisfy specific health and character prerequisites, which typically include medical assessments and police clearances.



Tips for successfully applying for a Partner Visa


1. Two-Stage Process: The Australian Partner Visa consists of two stages - a temporary visa and a permanent visa. Meeting the requirements for both visas is crucial for a successful application.


2. Providing Evidence: It is essential to provide substantial evidence of your relationship, such as shared financial commitments, living arrangements, social connections, and joint responsibilities.


3. Consider Professional Help: The Partner Visa process can be complex. Hiring a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer can assist in preparing and submitting your application accurately.


4. Maintain Documentation: Keep records of conversations, joint responsibilities, and continue to build a strong narrative of your genuine and ongoing relationship.


5. Manage Finances Wisely: Budgeting for the visa application fees, health examinations, police clearances, and other related expenses is crucial due to the potential costs involved.


6. Stay Updated: Stay informed about immigration policy changes and visa processing times to navigate the process effectively.


7. Foster Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your partner. Discuss your relationship history, future plans, and any changes in circumstances.


8. Translation Services: Ensure that any non-English documents are professionally translated to meet visa requirements.


9. Prepare for Waiting: The Partner Visa process can be lengthy, so plan ahead, consider timeframes, and be prepared for potential separation during the waiting period.


10. Health and Character Checks: Proactively meet health and character requirements to avoid unnecessary delays.


11. Plan for Life in Australia: Alongside the visa application, plan for accommodation, employment, and social integration in Australia.


12. Practice Patience: The Partner Visa process can be emotionally challenging, so stay positive and focused on the goal of being together in Australia.


These tips aim to facilitate a smoother application process and enhance the likelihood of success in obtaining a Partner Visa.



We trust that this information has been helpful. For further clarification or additional details, feel free to contact our dedicated team at Leading Edge Migration. Our experts are ready to assist and address your specific needs.

Leading Edge Migration

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.


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