Are you and your partner planning to begin your life together in Australia? If yes, you will find out that there are only two ways to get a partner visa – onshore and offshore. With multiple legal rules, forms and timelines involved, it helps to seek the assistance of a reliable visa agent. In this blog, we will answer the most burning questions asked by people to an offshore or onshore partner visa agent in Melbourne.
How Are Onshore & Offshore Partner Visas Different?
The main distinction between the two is where you apply from:
- Onshore – To apply for an onshore partner visa, you have to be in Australia. This application consists of the permanent Subclass 801 visa and the temporary Subclass 820 visa. After application, you will be provided with a bridging visa to stay in Australia while the visa is processed.
- Offshore – To apply for an offshore partner visa, you must be outside Australia. This includes the permanent Subclass 100 visa and temporary Subclass 309 visa. You must remain overseas until your visa is processed.
Which Avenue Is Right For My Partner & I?
Deciding between the two types of partner visas will depend on your location as well as personal circumstances. If both of you are in Australia already, you can study and work while waiting for the processing to complete. If one of you is outside Australia, an offshore application is better suited for you two. Reach out to an offshore partner visa agent in Melbourne for the right guidance.
What Are The Eligibility Requisites?
The rules for partner visas in Australia are quite similar, be it onshore or offshore. You must prove that:
- You are married or in a genuine de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Your relationship is real and ongoing.
- You both plan a future together in Australia.
Evidence can include proof of joint finances, living together, or photos depicting your shared life.
What Are The Benefits of The Different Partner Visa Routes?
If you choose to work with an onshore partner visa agent in Melbourne, you can be with your partner in Australia. You’ll get a bridging visa, using which you can work & access Medicare.
On the other hand, an offshore visa application has relatively faster processing time. It also lets couples who aren’t married yet but plan to tie to knot in future have a chance to apply.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Decision?
Processing times may change, but in most cases:
- Onshore partner visas can take nearly 16 months.
- Offshore partner visas may be processed within 13 to 30 months. However, times may vary depending on government policy and the case.
Can I Directly Apply for Permanent Residency?
No, because both options use a two-step process. First, you will get a temporary visa (309 offshore or 820 onshore). After 2 years, you can file for the permanent visa (100 offshore or 801 onshore), provided your relationship is still ongoing & genuine.
How Can An Agent Help With The Process?
An onshore or offshore partner visa agent in Melbourne can help by:
- Explaining the options to you
- Helping get the evidence in order
- Reducing mistakes in your application
In addition, they can guide you through legal hurdles and timelines for application processing.
What Can I Do Next?
If you still feel confused, reach out to a professional immigration attorney at Visa Pro Migration & Education Services. Partner with our offshore or onshore partner visa agent in Melbourne to enjoy a hassle-free application process. For queries, give us a call at 03 7045 0722 or email us at dsb@visa-pro.com.au.
