Partner visas are about supporting genuine relationships and keeping families together. What are the different types of partner visas? And how do you prove you’re in a committed relationship? We’ll take you through some of the common missteps so you avoid tripping up on path to love. And give you some tips for a successful partner visa application.
Types of Partner Visas
There are two main types of partner visas available for those looking to move to Australia to be with their partner: the temporary partner visa (subclass 820/801) and the permanent partner visa (subclass 801/100). The temporary partner visa allows you to live and work in Australia while your permanent partner visa application is being processed. Once your permanent partner visa is approved, you will have the right to live and work in Australia indefinitely.
Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
The temporary partner visa is for those who are already in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident. To be eligible for this visa, you must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner and have been in this relationship for at least 12 months. You must also be able to prove that you and your partner have a mutual commitment to a shared life together.
Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100)
The permanent partner visa is for those who have been in a genuine and ongoing relationship with their Australian partner for at least three years. This visa is also available for those who have been in a relationship for less than three years but have a child with their Australian partner.
To be eligible for this visa, you must have already held a temporary partner visa (subclass 820/801) and have met all the requirements for this visa.
Partner Visa Eligibility Requirements
Before you consider applying for a Partner Visa, check you are likely to qualify. You’ll need to prove the following:
You’re in a Genuine Relationship: First and foremost, you must be in a genuine, committed relationship and that you’ve been living together for a designated period of time if you are not married. This can be the hardest part to prove. We’ll address how you can prove you’re in a genuine relationship below.
Age: Both you and your Australian partner must be at least 18 years old.
Partner’s Residency Status: Your Australian partner should be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
Sponsorship: Your partner must agree to sponsor you, which means they’ll be financially responsible for you during your initial years in Australia.
Health and Character Checks: You will need to pass health and character assessments. This usually includes medical examinations and police clearances.
Evidence of a Genuine Relationship
One of the most critical aspects of your Australian Partner Visa application is proving your relationship is genuine. This can be a stumbling block for some couples. So what can be used as evidence?
Some examples of evidence you might need to provide include:
1. Personal Statements: You and your partner can write personal statements detailing how you met, your life together, and your future plans as a couple.
2. Proof of Living Together: If you share a residence, provide documents like utility bills, lease agreements, or property deeds that show you both reside at the same address.
3. Financial Proof: Do you have Joint bank accounts, shared financial responsibilities, or evidence of financial support from your Australian partner? This can strengthen your case.
4. Social Proof: Can you access photographs of special moments of the two of you together? Its often necessary to include letters from friends and family who can vouch for your relationship, or invitations to family events where you were present as a couple.
Read on: Proving a De Facto Relationship
Benefits of an Australian Partner Visa
Obtaining an Australian partner visa not only allows you to live and work in Australia with your partner, but it also opens up a path to Australian citizenship. After living in Australia for four years on a permanent partner visa, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
If you are in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, an Australian partner visa may be the perfect way to start your life together in this beautiful country. Start gathering your documents and begin the application process today.
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Author: Greg Nicolson is a registered migration agent (MARN: 0959139) and Managing Director of Australian Business Migration Group.
