How to Apply for an Australian Partner Visa: A Complete Guide
The Australian Partner Visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. If you’re in a genuine, ongoing relationship and wish to join your partner in Australia, this visa might be the perfect solution. But how do you apply for an Australian Partner Visa? What steps are involved, and what requirements do you need to meet?
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through the process, eligibility criteria, necessary documents, and common mistakes to avoid while applying for your Australian Partner Visa.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying for the Partner Visa, you need to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. The key criteria for eligibility include:
Relationship Status: You must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner. This can either be through marriage or a de facto relationship (living together for at least 12 months).
Sponsor Requirements: Your sponsor (the Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen) must be an eligible sponsor. This usually means that your sponsor must not have sponsored more than two Partner Visa applicants in the past five years.
Health and Character: You must pass health checks and provide a police certificate to demonstrate good character.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
To successfully apply for a Partner Visa, you'll need to provide several documents to support your application. These may include:
Proof of Identity: Passport, national identity card, or birth certificate.
Proof of Relationship: Photos, joint bank accounts, shared bills, rental agreements, and statutory declarations from family or friends can help demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship.
Marriage Certificate (if applicable): If you're married, you’ll need to submit a marriage certificate.
Evidence of Financial Support: Joint financial records, such as shared bank accounts, utility bills, and other joint financial obligations.
Police Checks and Health Requirements: Both you and your partner will need to undergo medical exams and provide police certificates from every country you've lived in for more than 12 months in the past 10 years.
Make sure to organize these documents before submitting your application to avoid delays or requests for additional information.
Step 3: Submit Your Partner Visa Application
Once you’ve gathered all necessary documentation, you can submit your Partner Visa application online through the ImmiAccount portal on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
When applying online, you’ll be prompted to create an ImmiAccount, where you can track your application status, receive updates, and communicate with the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 4: What Happens After You Submit Your Application?
Once your application has been submitted, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your eligibility. This process can take several months, and you’ll typically receive the temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820) first, which allows you to stay in Australia while your permanent visa (subclass 801) is being processed.
Here’s what you can expect during the processing time:
Visa Acknowledgement: After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment letter from the Department of Home Affairs.
Temporary Visa Grant: In most cases, you will receive the subclass 820 temporary Partner Visa.
Permanent Visa Grant (subclass 801): After about two years (from the application date), you can apply for the permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801). You’ll need to demonstrate that your relationship is still ongoing and genuine.
Processing Times: The processing time can vary depending on the complexity of your case, the completeness of your application, and the current backlog. On average, the temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820) takes about 12-18 months, and the permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801) may take another 1-2 years.
Step 5: Wait for Your Visa Outcome
After your visa application has been assessed, you will receive a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. If your Partner Visa application is approved, you will be granted a temporary visa (subclass 820) while the permanent visa (subclass 801) is processed.
It’s important to note that you must remain in Australia while your application is processed. If you leave Australia during the process, you may risk invalidating your application.
If you're unsure about your eligibility, or have questions, consulting an immigration expert can provide clarity and help avoid unnecessary delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The Partner Visa application can be complex, and there are several common mistakes that applicants often make. Avoid these errors to ensure a smooth application process:
Incomplete Documentation: Failing to provide all required documents can delay your application. Double-check that all forms are filled out correctly and all supporting documents are included.
Missing Proof of Relationship: It’s essential to submit sufficient evidence of your relationship. The more comprehensive the evidence, the better.
Not Meeting Health and Character Requirements: Make sure to complete your medical exams and police checks early in the process to avoid delays.
Not Understanding the Temporary Visa Process: Many applicants are unaware that the permanent visa is processed after the temporary visa is granted, leading to confusion and frustration. Make sure you understand the stages involved.
Conclusion
Applying for an Australian Partner Visa is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, gathering the necessary documentation, and staying patient throughout the process, you can successfully secure a Partner Visa and live with your partner in Australia.
If you have any questions or need help navigating the visa process, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from a licensed migration agent or immigration lawyer. We can provide expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Please contact Auslife Migration Consultants at info@auslife.com or call +61433 588377 for more information.