Please note that the information we provide in this article about spouse visa cost is current as of the date of publication, and the DHA regularly updates rules and regulations. Kindly ensure that you check the official updates before making any decisions or speak with an immigration lawyer for the most up-to-date information, as laws and conditions are subject to change.
Do you need to know the requirements for partner visa? Understanding and knowing these requirements is crucial for a smooth and successful application. There are various documents to collect, evidence of your relationship’s authenticity, and what character checks are involved can significantly increase your chances of approval.
This advanced knowledge allows you and your partner to plan ahead, gather financial documents, schedule medical checks, and anticipate any hurdles that might arise. Additionally, being familiar with the requirements for partner visa helps you avoid scams and ensures you only deal with reputable migration agents.
Ultimately, navigating the partner visa process with a clear understanding of the requirements saves you time, money, and stress, bringing you and your partner one step closer to a life together in Australia.
What Is the Partner Visa (Subclass 820)?
The Subclass 820 Partner Visa is a temporary partner visa for spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents. The requirements for partner visa (temporary) is the first step to getting a permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801). You can stay in Australia while your permanent visa is being processed.
If lodged in Australia, the applicant can go on a bridging visa and remain in Australia for however long it takes to assess the application. The Subclass 801 Partner Visa is the permanent version for those already holding the temporary Subclass 820 visa. The cost starts from AUD$8,850 for most applicants, with a lower fee (AUD$1,475) for Prospective Marriage visa holders.
Generally, processing time varies, but you can get an estimate using the online processing time guide tool. However, this is not guaranteed for your specific case. Here are the benefits of this visa:
- Live, work, and study in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
- Travel freely to and from Australia.
- Access free English language classes if eligible.
- Potentially apply for Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare scheme).
Important points:
- You must be in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who sponsors you.
- You must be in Australia when you apply (and any family applying with you).
- Your location (in or outside Australia) at the time of the final decision on your temporary visa doesn’t impact the outcome.
Requirements for Partner Visa: Important Documents
The key to smooth partner visa applications is being prepared. Here’s a breakdown of the documents you’ll need to gather, along with some helpful tips:
1. Identity Documents:
- We should always with your birth certificate showing both parents’ names.
- If unavailable, provide alternative documents like a government ID cards or court-issued documents proving your identity.
- Don’t forget your current passport (photo, personal details, and expiry dates) and national ID card (if you have one).
- Proof of name changes (marriage certificate, divorce decree, name change documents) is needed if applicable.
2. Health Examinations (Optional, but recommended):
Health examinations are important requirements for partner visa. This protects Australia from infectious or lethal diseases that applicants may carry to the country. You can complete health checks before applying. The results are valid for 12 months.
3. Evidence of Your Relationship:
This is the core of your application. Here’s what you need to show:
- A genuine and continuing relationship with your partner (excluding all others). Write a detailed history of your relationship, including how you met, significant events, and future plans.
- Proof of Marriage (if married): Provide your marriage certificate.
- Proof of De Facto Relationship (if not married): You’ll need evidence of living together with your de facto partner for at least 12 months before applying. This could be joint bills, lease agreements, or registration with an Australian state authority.
If you haven’t been together for 12 months, explain your situation and provide compelling reasons for visa approval.
4. Supporting Relationship Evidence:
- Finances: Show you share finances with joint bank statements, mortgage/lease documents, or loan documents for major assets. These requirements for partner visa are proof that both of you and your partner are financially responsible in your relationship.
- Household: Provide evidence you share living arrangements through bills, mail addressed to both of you, and documents proving joint responsibility for children.
- Social Matters: Statements from two witnesses who know your relationship are mandatory (Form 888 available).
- Joint invitations, proof of shared friends/activities, or travel documents strengthen your case.
- Mutual Commitment: Evidence of long-term mutual commitment can include combined personal matters, knowledge of each other’s backgrounds, or joint wills.
5. Former Relationships:
Provide divorce documents, death certificates, or separation documents if applicable. Do you want to know what to do if there is a relationship breakdown during a partner visa procedure? Click here to read our article regarding the matter.
6. Dependants Under 18:
Provide these requirements for partner visa, for each dependent child applying with you:
- Identity documents
- Proof of relationship (birth certificate)
- Health examinations
- Character documents (age 16-17)
- Adoption papers (if applicable)
- School enrollment proof (if applicable)
- Sole custody evidence (if applicable)
Anyone with legal rights over the child’s residence (not migrating with the child) must provide consent (Form 1229 or a statutory declaration).
7. Dependants Over 18:
To include an adult dependent child:
- They must be unmarried and financially dependent on you.
- Provide identity documents, relationship proof (birth certificate), health examinations, character documents, and evidence of dependence (financial statements, Form 47a).
Prospective Marriage visa holders can include family members holding the same visa at the time of application.
8. Preparing Your Documents:
- Translations: All non-English documents need English translations by accredited translators (Australia) or with qualifications/experience details included (outside Australia).
- Scanning/Photographing: Scan or photograph all documents (English and translated) in color for clear, readable copies. Save multi-page documents as single files. Certification is not required.
Read: How to Apply for Partner Visa in Australia? | JB Solicitors
How Can We Help with Requirements for Partner Visa?
Partner visas in Australia are sought after for love, opportunity, and a brighter future. They allow couples to build a life together permanently, pursue careers and education, and enjoy stability and security. Families can stay united and access excellent healthcare and education. Ultimately, it’s a chance to experience the Australian lifestyle and contribute to a vibrant society.
However, with little knowledge and legal advice, such applications can result in cancellations and delays. JB Solicitors’ has expertise in visa applications, coupled with a personalised approach to your unique situation. Hence, our help can significantly increase your chances of a successful partner visa application outcome. Don’t let complexities or uncertainties stand in your way of your relationship in Australia.
Contact JB Solicitors today and take the first step towards a future together in Australia.
