What is a Visa Partner?
A visa partner allows a foreign national to live in Australia with their Australian partner. It is available for individuals in both married and de facto relationships, whether opposite-sex or same-sex. This visa is designed for couples who can prove their relationship is genuine and ongoing.
There are two main types of visa partner options:
- Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820) – This visa lets you live in Australia temporarily while your permanent copyright is processed. It is often the first stage in a two-stage process, leading to the permanent visa.
- Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801) – This visa allows you to stay in Australia permanently after holding the temporary partner visa for at least two years. It offers a permanent solution for couples living in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements for the Visa Partner
To apply for a visa partner, both you and your partner must meet specific eligibility requirements. Here's a breakdown of the primary criteria:
- Genuine Relationship: A fundamental aspect of the visa partner application is proving the authenticity of your relationship. You will need to show that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. Evidence might include joint financial documents, proof of shared living arrangements, photos, and testimonies from friends and family.
- Sponsor’s Eligibility: Your Australian partner must be willing to sponsor you. They must be an Australian citizen, copyright, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. Additionally, your partner must be able to prove they are of good character and can support your application.
- Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old to apply for the visa partner.
- Health and Character Checks: Both you and your partner will need to undergo health assessments and provide police clearance certificates from any country where you have lived for more than 12 months over the past 10 years.
The Application Process for a Visa Partner
The application process for the visa partner involves several steps. Here is a brief overview of what you will need to do:
- Gather the Necessary Documents: Collect documents that demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship. These might include joint bank account statements, proof of cohabitation, photos, and affidavits from friends and family.
- Complete the Application: You can apply for the visa partner online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. Be thorough when filling out the application to avoid any delays or mistakes.
- Submit Your Application: After completing the application, submit it online and pay the required visa fee. Be prepared for additional documentation requests as the processing continues.
- Wait for Processing: The processing time for a visa partner can take several months, depending on your individual circumstances. The Department of Home Affairs may request additional information or documents during this period.
- Temporary Visa Approval: If your temporary visa (Subclass 820) is approved, you will be allowed to stay in Australia with your partner while waiting for your permanent copyright (Subclass 801) to be processed.
- Permanent copyright: After holding the temporary visa for at least two years, you can apply for the permanent visa partner (Subclass 801). As long as your relationship is still ongoing, you are likely to be granted permanent residency.
Benefits of a Visa Partner
There are numerous advantages to obtaining a visa partner:
- Living Together in Australia: The primary benefit is the ability to live with your partner in Australia and build a life together.
- Work and Study Rights: As a visa partner holder, you will have the right to work and study in Australia, opening doors to numerous professional and educational opportunities.
- Access to Medicare: Partner visa holders are eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, which provides affordable medical services.
- Pathway to Australian Citizenship: After holding a permanent partner visa for a specified period, you can apply for Australian citizenship, subject to meeting the residency requirements.
Challenges in the Visa Partner Process
While the visa partner offers significant benefits, there are a few challenges you may face during the application process:
- Proving the Relationship: The most significant hurdle is proving that your relationship is genuine. It can take time to gather sufficient evidence and provide convincing documentation.
- Processing Delays: Processing times for visa partner applications can vary. You may have to wait several months before receiving a decision on your visa, which can be stressful.
- Costs: The application fees for the visa partner can be quite high, and you may incur additional costs for health checks, police clearance certificates, and document translations.
Conclusion
Applying for a visa partner is an exciting but complex process for couples wishing to live together in Australia. By meeting the eligibility criteria, providing the necessary documentation, and following the correct application steps, you can improve your chances of securing a visa partner. While the process may be lengthy and challenging, the rewards of living with your partner in Australia make it worthwhile. If you need assistance navigating the application, it may be helpful to consult with a migration agent to ensure everything is handled smoothly.