A Complete Guide to Permanent Partner Visa in Australia

Obtaining a permanent partner visa in Australia is an essential step for many couples wishing to build their lives together Down Under. This visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia permanently. It ensures that couples can stay united and enjoy the many opportunities that the country offers.

This guide will walk you through the types of partner visas available, the eligibility criteria, the application process, costs, and benefits, making it easier for you to navigate this important journey.

Types of Partner Visas

Understanding the different types of partner visas is essential to ensure you apply for the correct one based on your situation.

Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820 and 309)

Before receiving a permanent partner visa, applicants must first obtain a temporary partner visa. The Subclass 820 visa is for those applying within Australia, while the Subclass 309 visa is for applicants outside the country. Both visas allow the applicant to live in Australia while their permanent visa is processed.

Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801 and 100)

After holding the temporary partner visa for two years, getting a permanent partner visa is the next step. The Subclass 801 visa is for those who applied for the Subclass 820 visa, and the Subclass 100 visa is for those who applied for the Subclass 309 visa. These visas allow the holder to stay in Australia indefinitely, work and study, and eventually apply for citizenship.

One quick and legitimate way to get a permanent partner visa in Australia is by hiring reputable visa processing services. They'll take care of the paperwork and submit the application on your behalf, saving you from unnecessary stress.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a permanent partner visa, certain conditions must be met. These include:

1. Relationship Requirements: The applicant must be married or in a de facto relationship with their Australian partner. The relationship should be genuine and ongoing. For de facto relationships, couples must have lived together for at least 12 months.
2. Sponsor Eligibility: The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. They shouldn't have sponsored another partner within the last five years.
3. Health and Character Checks: Applicants must undergo health examinations and provide police clearances from any country they've lived in for 12 months or more in the past ten years.
4. Financial and Social Evidence: Evidence of shared financial responsibilities, social activities, and mutual commitment is required. This can include joint bank accounts, shared bills, and statements from friends and family.

Meeting these criteria is essential to demonstrate the legitimacy and stability of the relationship, which is a key factor in the visa approval process.

Application Process

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Applicants must collect various documents to support their application. These include:

• Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)
• Evidence of the relationship (marriage certificate, joint lease agreements)
• Financial documents (bank statements, shared utility bills)
• Health and police checks

It's important to organise and verify all documents carefully to avoid any delays or complications in the application process.

Step 2: Lodge the Application

The application can be lodged online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. Applicants need to create an ImmiAccount, complete the application form, and upload the necessary documents. There's an application fee that must be paid at the time of lodging.

Step 3: Await Processing

The processing time for the temporary partner visa can vary but usually takes between 12 and 24 months. During this time, the Department of Home Affairs may request additional information or documents.

Step 4: Obtain a Temporary Visa

Once the temporary partner visa is granted, the applicant can live and work in Australia while waiting for the permanent partner visa.

Step 5: Apply for a Permanent Partner Visa

Two years after lodging the initial application, applicants can apply for the permanent partner visa. The Department of Home Affairs will review the relationship's status and any new information provided.

Cost of the Visa

The cost of applying for a permanent partner visa is significant. As of July 2024, the visa application fee is approximately AUD$ 9,095. Additional costs may include health examinations, police checks, and document translations. Applicants should budget for these expenses to avoid any surprises.

Benefits of the Permanent Partner Visa

Holding a permanent partner visa offers numerous advantages:

1. Permanent Residency: The visa holder can live in Australia indefinitely.
2. Work and Study: The holder can work and study in Australia without restrictions.
3. Healthcare: Access to Medicare, Australia's public health care system, is available.
4. Social Security: Eligibility for certain social security payments, such as unemployment benefits, may be granted.
5. Citizenship Pathway: The visa provides a pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

These benefits not only enhance the quality of life for visa holders but also provide long-term security and stability for their future in Australia.

Tips for a Successful Application

To improve your chances of approval, follow these tips carefully.

1. Complete and Accurate Documentation: Ensure all documents are complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect information can delay processing.
2. Strong Relationship Evidence: Provide thorough evidence of the relationship's genuineness. This can include photos, joint travel itineraries, and statements from friends and family.
3. Professional Advice: Consider consulting a migration agent or lawyer for guidance, especially if the case is complex.

Paying attention to these details can make the application process smoother and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome so you can finally call yourself an Australian citizen and enjoy Australia.

Conclusion

Applying for a permanent partner visa in Australia is a detailed process that requires careful preparation and documentation. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application steps can help ensure a smooth process. For those seeking to build a life together in Australia, this visa is a crucial step towards achieving that goal.