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Australia Spouse Visa – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an Australia Spouse Visa?
The Australia Spouse Visa allows the spouse or partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
2. What types of Spouse Visas are available in Australia?
Australia offers the Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) for onshore applicants and the Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100) for offshore applicants.
3. Who is eligible for the Australia Spouse Visa?
You must be married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Processing and Eligibility
4. How long does the Australia Spouse Visa process take?
For Subclass 820/801, it may take 15-28 months, and for Subclass 309/100, around 13-25 months.
5. Can my spouse join me immediately after applying?
Offshore applicants may need to wait for the visa grant; onshore applicants may be issued a Bridging Visa.
6. What documents are required for the application?
Documents include identity proof, relationship evidence, health certificates, and character documents.
7. How much does an Australia Spouse Visa cost?
The visa application fee is approximately AUD 7,850, with possible additional fees for dependents.
8. Can I include my children in my Spouse Visa application?
Yes, dependent children can be included. Additional fees may apply.
Rights and Responsibilities
9. Can I work in Australia with a Spouse Visa?
Yes, you can work without restrictions on both provisional and permanent stages.
10. Can I study in Australia on a Spouse Visa?
Yes, Spouse Visa holders are allowed to study in Australia.
11. Do I have to stay in Australia during the application process?
For Subclass 820, onshore applicants need a Bridging Visa B to travel. Offshore applicants can generally travel freely.
Relationship Evidence
12. What type of evidence is required to prove my relationship?
Marriage certificate, shared finances, joint accounts, photos, and other documents demonstrating a genuine relationship.
13. Is a joint bank account necessary?
While not mandatory, a joint account can strengthen your application as it shows financial commitment.
14. Can we use social media posts as relationship evidence?
Yes, social media posts can supplement other evidence, though official documents are preferred.
Visa Stages
15. What is the difference between a temporary and permanent Spouse Visa?
The temporary Spouse Visa (Subclass 820 or 309) allows you to stay in Australia while the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100) is processed.
16. How long does it take to get the permanent visa?
Permanent residency is typically granted after a two-year wait, provided your relationship is ongoing.
Bridging and Travel
17. What is a Bridging Visa B?
A Bridging Visa B allows applicants to travel outside Australia while awaiting the outcome of their onshore visa.
18. Can I apply for Bridging Visa B anytime?
Yes, you may apply for a Bridging Visa B if you plan to travel during the processing of an onshore visa.
Additional Questions
19. What happens if my relationship ends?
If your relationship ends, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs, which may affect your visa status.
20. Can I apply for Australian citizenship on a Spouse Visa?
Yes, after obtaining a permanent visa, you may be eligible for citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.
21. What if my partner is a New Zealand citizen?
Partners of eligible New Zealand citizens may apply for a Spouse Visa under the same criteria.
22. Do I need health insurance for my application?
While not mandatory, having health insurance is recommended, especially for temporary visa holders.
23. Can my visa be rejected?
Yes, your visa can be rejected if you fail to meet eligibility requirements or provide insufficient documentation.
24. What should I do if my application is denied?
You may appeal the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
25. How can I track my visa application status?
You can track your application status through the ImmiAccount portal.
26. Can I receive financial assistance as a Spouse Visa holder?
Permanent visa holders may be eligible for certain benefits, while temporary holders typically are not.