How to Bring Partner to Australia
Bringing your partner to Australia can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and understanding of the immigration process. Whether you are in a committed relationship or married, there are several pathways available to help you bring your partner to Australia. In this article, we will explore the different options and provide you with valuable tips on how to successfully navigate the process.
Understanding the Visa Options
The first step in bringing your partner to Australia is to determine the most suitable visa category. The most common options include:
1. Partner Visa (subclass 820/801): This visa is for partners of Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. It is a two-step process, with the first step being a temporary visa (subclass 820) and the second step being a permanent visa (subclass 801).
2. Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300): This visa is for people who are engaged to be married to an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It allows the applicant to come to Australia to marry their partner within nine months.
3. De facto Partner Visa (subclass 309/866): This visa is for partners who have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months (or less than 12 months in certain circumstances). Similar to the Partner Visa, it is a two-step process.
Meeting the Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a partner visa, both you and your partner must meet certain criteria. These include:
1. Genuine Relationship: You must prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. This involves providing evidence of your mutual commitment, financial interdependence, social and community ties, and the nature of your household.
2. Age Requirement: Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old.
3. Health and Character Requirements: You must meet health and character requirements to be granted a visa.
Preparing the Application
Once you have determined the appropriate visa category and ensured that you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to prepare your application. This involves:
1. Gathering Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents to prove your relationship, such as photographs, correspondence, and proof of financial interdependence.
2. Completing the Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and honestly.
3. Paying the Application Fee: Pay the required visa application fee.
4. Submitting the Application: Submit your application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Seeking Professional Help
Navigating the partner visa process can be complex, and it is advisable to seek professional help from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer. They can provide guidance on the best visa category for your situation, assist with preparing your application, and represent you during the visa application process.
Conclusion
Bringing your partner to Australia is a significant step, and it is important to approach the process with thorough preparation and understanding. By familiarizing yourself with the available visa options, meeting the eligibility criteria, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can increase your chances of successfully bringing your partner to Australia. Remember to be patient and persistent, as the visa application process can take time.
