Partner Visa Applications in Australia – Complete Guide

Overview of Australian Partner Visas

The Australian Partner Visa allows the spouses, de facto partners, and fiancés of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. This visa aims to keep families together and allows foreign partners to settle in Australia with full rights.

Types of Partner Visas in Australia

There are several types of partner visas available in Australia, depending on the applicant’s location and the nature of the relationship:

• Subclass 820 and 801 (Onshore): For applicants already in Australia. The Subclass 820 is temporary, while the Subclass 801 is permanent.
• Subclass 309 and 100 (Offshore): For applicants outside Australia. The Subclass 309 is a temporary visa leading to the permanent Subclass 100 visa.
• Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): For fiancés of Australian citizens or permanent residents who plan to marry in Australia. This is a temporary visa valid for 9 months, after which the applicant can apply for an onshore partner visa.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an Australian Partner Visa, both the applicant and the sponsoring partner must meet certain requirements:

• The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• The relationship must be genuine and ongoing.
• For de facto relationships, the couple must have lived together for at least 12 months before applying.
• Both parties must meet character and health requirements.

Application Process

The application process for an Australian Partner Visa involves several steps:

1. Submit the Visa Application: Complete and submit the application online through the ImmiAccount portal on the Department of Home Affairs website.
2. Upload Supporting Documents: Provide evidence of the relationship, financial documents, identity proof, and other relevant documentation.
3. Pay the Visa Application Fee: Pay the required visa fee to proceed with the application.
4. Medical and Police Checks: Undergo a health examination by an approved doctor and provide police certificates from countries where you have lived.
5. Application Processing: The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and may ask for additional information.
6. Receive Visa Decision: If approved, the applicant will receive a temporary partner visa, and, after two years, may be eligible for the permanent visa.

Required Documents

The required documents for a partner visa application in Australia include:

• Passport and identification documents
• Evidence of relationship (e.g., photos, joint bank accounts, lease agreements)
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Form 888 – Statutory declarations by friends or family about the relationship
• Financial records showing shared expenses
• Character documents like police certificates
• Health examination results

Fees and Payment

The fees for an Australian Partner Visa can be significant and vary depending on the type of visa. Current fees include:

• Subclass 820/801 (Onshore): AUD 8,085
• Subclass 309/100 (Offshore): AUD 8,085
• Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): AUD 8,085

Additional fees may apply for police checks, medical exams, and biometric services.

Processing Time

Processing times for partner visas in Australia vary depending on factors such as the visa subclass and complexity of the application. Generally:

• Temporary Partner Visa (820/309): 12-18 months
• Permanent Partner Visa (801/100): 2 years after receiving the temporary visa
• Prospective Marriage Visa (300): 12-16 months

Key Points to Remember

• Provide thorough evidence to demonstrate a genuine relationship.
• Ensure all documents are certified and translated if necessary.
• Keep a record of all communication with the Department of Home Affairs.
• Processing times are approximate; apply as early as possible.
• The temporary visa allows full work and study rights in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Subclass 820 and Subclass 801?

Subclass 820 is a temporary partner visa for applicants already in Australia, while Subclass 801 is the permanent visa granted after holding the temporary visa for two years.

Can I work on an Australian Partner Visa?

Yes, both the temporary and permanent partner visas allow full work rights in Australia.

Do I need to apply separately for Subclass 801 after getting Subclass 820?

No, once you hold the Subclass 820 visa, you will automatically be considered for the Subclass 801 visa after two years, provided you meet all requirements.

What if my relationship ends before I receive the permanent visa?

If your relationship ends, it may impact your visa status. You must notify the Department of Home Affairs if there is a change in your relationship status.

Can I travel while my application is being processed?

Yes, you may apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) that allows travel while your onshore application is processed.

Official Website

For the most current information and updates on the Partner Visa application process, visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.