Moving from a de facto relationship to permanent residency in Australia follows a clear path. However, it still takes careful planning. The Partner Visa program lets the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia. First, you receive a temporary visa. Then, you can move on to full permanent residency.
To understand each step, it helps to work with a partner visa consultant in Melbourne. Let’s look at how the process works.
Understanding Australia’s Partner Visa Options
Australian partner visas fall into groups based on two things. The first is where you are when you apply. The second is whether the visa is temporary or permanent.
1. Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
If you are already in Australia, you can apply for the Onshore Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820). For example, you might currently hold a visitor visa or another temporary visa. This visa lets you stay in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
After about two years, you can move to the Onshore Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801). This visa gives you permanent residency. You lodge both applications at the same time. The temporary visa comes first, and the permanent visa follows later.
While you wait, you receive a Bridging Visa. As a result, you can stay in Australia lawfully during the process. Your work and study rights on the Bridging Visa depend on your previous visa. However, support such as government subsidies or fee help is usually not available until you hold a permanent visa.
2. Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)
If you are outside Australia, you can apply for the Offshore Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 309). With this visa, you can enter Australia and live with your partner while you wait for permanent residency. Then, after around two years, you can move to the Offshore Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 100).
You must apply for both visas at the same time. Also, you need to be outside Australia when you apply and when you receive the temporary visa. However, you can be inside or outside Australia when you receive the permanent visa.
3. Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
This visa suits couples who are engaged but not yet married. It lets the applicant enter Australia and marry their Australian partner within nine months. After the wedding, the applicant can then apply for a partner visa to work towards permanent residency.
Eligibility and Conditions
To qualify for a partner visa, you must show a genuine and continuing relationship. Your partner must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. The relationship can be a marriage or a de facto partnership.
For de facto status, couples usually need to show they have been together for at least 12 months. Alternatively, they can register their relationship under a state or territory scheme. In most cases, both partners must also be at least 18 years old.
You will also need evidence that your relationship is real. For example, this can include:
- Joint finances
- Shared living arrangements
- Social recognition of your relationship
- Mutual commitment to a shared life
- The nature of your household
In addition, applicants must pass identity checks, police checks and health exams. You must meet all health and character requirements before your visa can be approved. If you are unsure whether you are eligible, you can get help from an Australian partner visa agent in Melbourne.
Get Expert Help With Your Partner Visa
Are you looking for an expert partner visa consultant in Melbourne to make your application smooth? If so, speak to Visa Pro Migration & Education Services. For years, we have helped couples build their lives together in Australia. To get started, call us on 0433 454 580.
