Australia’s partner visas allow Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their partners or spouses to live in Australia. These visas are designed to keep families together and provide a pathway to permanent residency. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of partner visas, their requirements, processing times, and necessary checklists to ensure a successful application.
Types of Partner Visas
- Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100): This visa is for partners or spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who are outside Australia. The Subclass 309 is a temporary visa, while the Subclass 100 is a permanent visa.
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801): This visa is for partners or spouses who are in Australia. The Subclass 820 is temporary, and the Subclass 801 is permanent.
- Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): This visa allows individuals to come to Australia to marry their prospective spouse, who must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)
The Partner Visa (Subclass 309) allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia temporarily. Once the relationship is proven genuine and continuing, the applicant may then apply for the Partner Visa (Subclass 100), which is a permanent visa.
Subclass 309 Checklist
To apply for the Subclass 309 visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Identity Documents:
- Passport biodata page.
- Birth certificate.
- Relationship Evidence:
- Marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship.
- Statements from both partners detailing the history of the relationship.
- Photos of the couple together.
- Joint financial statements, such as bank accounts, utility bills, and lease agreements.
- Character Documents:
- Police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
- Health Documents:
- Health examination results.
- Additional Documents:
- Completed Form 888 (Statutory Declaration by a Supporting Witness in relation to a Partner or Prospective Marriage Visa Application).
Subclass 309 Processing Time 2024
The processing time for the Subclass 309 visa can vary. As of 2024, the average processing time is as follows:
- 75% of applications: Processed within 14 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 18 months.
Applicants should ensure that all documents are submitted correctly and that any additional information requested by the Department of Home Affairs is provided promptly to avoid delays.
Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
The Partner Visa (Subclass 820) allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia temporarily. Once the relationship is proven genuine and continuing, the applicant may then apply for the Partner Visa (Subclass 801), which is a permanent visa.
Subclass 820 Checklist
To apply for the Subclass 820 visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Identity Documents:
- Passport biodata page.
- Birth certificate.
- Relationship Evidence:
- Marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship.
- Statements from both partners detailing the history of the relationship.
- Photos of the couple together.
- Joint financial statements, such as bank accounts, utility bills, and lease agreements.
- Character Documents:
- Police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
- Health Documents:
- Health examination results.
- Additional Documents:
- Completed Form 888 (Statutory Declaration by a Supporting Witness in relation to a Partner or Prospective Marriage Visa Application).
Subclass 820 Processing Time
The processing time for the Subclass 820 visa can vary. As of 2024, the average processing time is as follows:
- 75% of applications: Processed within 21 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 28 months.
Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
The Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) allows individuals to come to Australia to marry their prospective spouse. After the marriage, the applicant can apply for a partner visa.
Prospective Marriage Visa Checklist
To apply for the Subclass 300 visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Identity Documents:
- Passport biodata page.
- Birth certificate.
- Relationship Evidence:
- Statements from both partners detailing the history of the relationship.
- Photos of the couple together.
- Evidence of intention to marry, such as wedding invitations, venue bookings, and correspondence with a marriage celebrant.
- Character Documents:
- Police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
- Health Documents:
- Health examination results.
Subclass 300 Processing Time
The processing time for the Subclass 300 visa can vary. As of 2024, the average processing time is as follows:
- 75% of applications: Processed within 17 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 23 months.
Partner Visa Costs
The cost of applying for a partner visa can be significant. As of 2024, the fees are as follows:
- Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100): AUD 8,085 for the main applicant.
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801): AUD 8,085 for the main applicant.
- Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): AUD 8,085 for the main applicant.
Additional costs may include health examinations, police clearances, and biometrics.
Tourist Visa to Partner Visa
It is possible to transition from a tourist visa to a partner visa while in Australia. However, applicants must ensure they meet the criteria for the partner visa and that their tourist visa does not have a “no further stay” condition.
Visa 309/100
The Subclass 309 visa is the first step towards the Subclass 100 visa, which grants permanent residency. The Subclass 100 visa is processed once the relationship is confirmed as genuine and continuing, typically after two years from the initial application.
Benefits of Partner Visas
Partner visas offer numerous benefits, including:
- Permanent Residency: Grants the right to live permanently in Australia.
- Work and Study: Allows the holder to work and study in Australia.
- Medicare: Access to Australia’s public health care scheme.
- Citizenship: Pathway to Australian citizenship.
Conclusion
Applying for a partner visa in Australia can be a complex process, but it is a crucial step for couples wishing to build a life together in Australia. Whether you are applying for the Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100), Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801), or the Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300), it is essential to ensure that all requirements are met and that the application is thoroughly prepared.
For professional assistance and to increase the chances of a successful application, consider consulting with the best migration agents in Adelaide. They can provide expert guidance and support throughout the application process, ensuring that you and your partner can be together in Australia as soon as possible.
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of partner visas requires careful planning and attention to detail. By understanding the requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and seeking professional advice, you can successfully apply for a partner visa and enjoy a future with your loved one in Australia.
