Are you and your partner planning to move to Australia together? If so, you might be considering applying for a partner visa.

This type of visa allows you to live, work and study in Australia with your spouse or de facto partner. However, the process of obtaining a partner visa in Australia can be complex and time-consuming. To help you navigate the process, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you start your partner visa application, it’s important to make sure that you and your partner meet the eligibility criteria. To be eligible, you must:

• Be legally married to your partner or in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months
• Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner
• Be sponsored by an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

Documentation

The next step is to gather all the necessary documentation. You will need to provide evidence of your relationship, including:

• Passport or other form of identification.
• Proof of the length of your relationship.
• Joint bank statements, bills and other financial information.
• Joint photographs.
• Testimonials from friends and family.
• Proof of cohabitation.

Application Form

Once you have all your documents ready, you can start filling out the application form. This form can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website. Be sure to answer all the questions accurately and provide all the relevant information. If you make a mistake, it could delay the processing of your application.

Migration Agent

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the application process, you can use the services of a registered migration agent like us ???? (You can learn more about our partner visa services here). These professionals have the expertise and experience to guide you through the process and help you avoid common mistakes. However, using a migration agent is not mandatory, and you can apply for a partner visa on your own if you prefer.

Follow-Up

Once you’ve submitted your application, be prepared to be patient. Processing times for partner visas can vary, and it can take several months to receive a decision. However, you can check the status of your application by logging into your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Conclusion

Applying for a partner visa in Australia can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right preparation and guidance, you can make it a success. Make sure to gather all the necessary documentation, fill out the application form accurately, use a migration agent if needed, and be proactive in following up on your application’s progress.

Good luck!

Bill Mitroulas

Head of Migration at Questra Immigration. Managing and overseeing the growth and performance of Questra’s team of migration agents, while maintaining a client-centric and quality-driven approach. A registered migration agent since 2015 and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia, with over 15 years’ experience in international education and 11 years in Australian Migration law.