Partner visas serve as a fundamental bridge for couples and families striving to reunite and build a life together in Australia. These visas, pivotal in immigration policy, are more than mere pathways for relocation—they are the embodiment of dreams and aspirations for countless international couples seeking to establish their homes in a new country.
Understanding the Four Aspects of a Relationship
When assessing applications for partner visas, Australian immigration authorities require evidence that the relationship is genuine and continuing. This evaluation is based on four key aspects:
- Financial aspect: This refers to how financial responsibilities are shared between partners. The authorities look at whether the couple pools their financial resources and how they handle their finances together. It is not just about sharing expenses but also about whether the financial interdependence reflects a long-term commitment.
- Social aspect: Social acknowledgment of the relationship is also scrutinized. This involves how the couple presents themselves in their social circles and to the outside world, including how they participate in social activities together or how their relationship is recognized by their friends, family, and community.
- Nature of the household: This aspect examines how the couple manages their household together. It looks at the arrangements they have made to share domestic tasks, how they support each other in daily life, and any other ways they organize their living arrangements to accommodate each other’s needs and lives.
- Mutual commitment to a shared life: Finally, the depth of commitment to a shared life is evaluated. This includes understanding the couple’s future plans, their fidelity to one another, and the overall stability and exclusivity of their partnership. It’s about assessing whether the couple sees and plans their future together, indicating a lasting bond.
These four criteria collectively help determine the authenticity of the relationship. They are designed to provide a comprehensive picture of the partnership, ensuring that only genuine couples who are committed to building a life together are granted a partner visa.
Navigating the Technical and Complex Application Process
The process of applying for a partner visa is intricate and highly technical, demanding a deep understanding of immigration law and policy. There is no simple form filling; instead, applicants must navigate a complex array of requirements, providing extensive and persuasive documentation to meet strict regulatory standards.
Challenges in this process often include proving the relationship’s authenticity and meeting the exacting health and character checks. Errors in application or insufficient documentation can lead to delays or even refusals, making professional guidance indispensable. A refusal would result in the applicant losing the application fee paid without any refunds available from the Department.
Subclass 820 and Subclass 309 Visas
The Partner Visa Subclass 820 is designed for individuals who are already in Australia and wish to remain in the country with their partner. A critical advantage of applying for this subclass is the eligibility for a bridging visa. This bridging visa becomes active once the current visa expires and the partner visa application is still being processed. It allows the applicant to lawfully stay in Australia during this time, maintaining their status and enabling them to live, work, and study—thereby minimizing disruptions to their life while they await the decision on their partner visa application. This bridging visa is a lifeline for many couples, providing continuity and stability when they need it most.
The Partner Visa Subclass 309 is a provisional visa designed for the de facto partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who is currently outside Australia. This visa serves as the first step towards a permanent Partner Visa (subclass 100), allowing the partner to enter and live in Australia while the permanent visa processing continues.
Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers’ Track Record of Success
At Augustine & Co. we pride ourselves on our high success rates and the positive impacts we have made in the lives of our clients. Our firm has consistently achieved favourable outcomes for our clients, a testament to our dedication and expertise in immigration law.
Our Google reviews, filled with testimonials from numerous satisfied clients, reflect our ability to deliver not only successful outcomes but also a supportive and understanding service tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
Partner with Augustine & Co. for Your Partner Visa Needs
If you’re considering applying for a partner visa, partnering with Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers can provide you with the expertise and support needed to navigate this complex process. Our commitment to excellence and our thorough understanding of Australian immigration law and policy allows us to provide superior assistance and guidance.
Contact us today to start your application journey with confidence, knowing that you have an experienced legal team ready to support you every step of the way.
Take the First Step
Ready to begin your visa application process? Book a Consultation with Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers today and take the first step towards reuniting with your partner in Australia.
Disclaimer:This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal advice, please contact Augustine & Co. directly.
Author
Calvin Augustine is the founding solicitor of Augustine & Co. Immigration Lawyers. He graduated with Honors from the University of London law school, before being admitted to practice in Malaysia and Australia (admitted in SA, appears in all Victorian Courts and Tribunals, at trial and appellate levels).
