Finding love can take you to amazing places, and sometimes, that special place is a whole new country! If you're in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, a partner visa might be the key to living your happily ever after down under.
What is a Partner Visa?
A Partner Visa allows you, the foreign spouse or de facto partner, to live in Australia with your loved one. There are two main stages:
Temporary Partner Visa: This is the first step, allowing you to stay in Australia while your permanent visa application is processed.
Permanent Partner Visa: This grants you permanent residency in Australia, enabling you to live, work, and study freely.
Types of Partner Visas
Applying within Australia: Subclass 820 (temporary) and Subclass 801 (permanent).
Applying outside Australia: Subclass 309 (provisional) and Subclass 100 (migrant).
Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): This visa allows you to enter Australia to marry your fiancé and then apply for a Partner Visa.
Am I Eligible?
The core requirement is a genuine and continuing relationship. This means you can demonstrate a committed partnership with shared finances, social connections, and future plans. In most cases, you'll need to be married or have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months before applying.
Relationship Requirements:
Genuine and Continuing Relationship: This is the most crucial aspect. You'll need to demonstrate a committed partnership with shared finances, social connections, and future plans.
Relationship Type: You can apply if you're married or in a de facto relationship.
De Facto Relationship Requirements: If you're not married, you generally need to have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months before applying. De facto means you live together as a couple and are committed to one another.
Additional Requirements:
Identity and Status Documents: Passports, birth certificates for any children.
Your Partner's Status: They must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Proof of their status will be required.
Financial Capacity: You'll need to show you can financially support yourselves in Australia.
Character Requirements: Police clearances for both you and your partner may be required.
What Documents Do I Need?
The Department of Home Affairs outlines the specific documents required, but generally, you'll need evidence that covers:
Your Relationship: Provide photos, statutory declarations from friends and family, shared bills, and travel records.
Your Partner's Status: They'll need to provide proof of Australian citizenship or residency.
Financial Capacity: Show you can support yourselves financially.
Character Requirements: Police clearances for both of you might be required.
Pro Tip: The more comprehensive your evidence, the smoother the application process.
What are the Costs Involved?
There are application fees for the visa stage, From AUD8,850.00 for most applicants. From AUD1,475 for Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300) holders. The health checks may also incur costs. Consider seeking professional migration advice to ensure a strong application and potentially avoid costly delays.
Where to start?
The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/) is a great resource for detailed information and application forms. For a more personalized approach, consider consulting a migration lawyer or agent who can guide you through the process.
So, if you're dreaming of building a life with your partner in Australia, a Partner Visa could be your golden ticket. With careful planning and a genuine relationship, you can turn that dream into reality!
Ready to take the next step? Get a head start on your Partner Visa journey. Schedule your free consultation to discuss your eligibility and have all your questions answered.
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.
Comments