If you have found love with an Australian citizen or permanent resident and are looking to make Australia your permanent home, navigating the partner visa application process is the key to obtaining Australian permanent residency. The Partner Visa is designed to allow individuals in genuine relationships with Australian citizens or permanent residents to live and work in Australia on a permanent basis.
The first step in the Partner Visa application process is to determine which subclass of visa you are eligible for. There are two main types of Partner Visas available: the Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309) and the Partner (Migrant) visa (subclass 100). The subclass 309 visa allows you to live in Australia on a temporary basis while the subclass 100 visa allows you to live in Australia permanently. It’s important to note that you must be outside of Australia when you apply for the subclass 309 visa but can be both inside or outside of Australia when you apply for the subclass 100 visa.
Once you have determined which subclass of visa you are eligible for, the next step is to gather all of the necessary documentation to support your visa application. This may include evidence of your relationship such as photos, joint bank accounts, utility bills in both names, and statutory declarations from friends or family confirming the genuineness of your relationship. You will also need to provide evidence of your identity, health, and character.
After you have gathered all of the necessary documentation, you can begin the online application process. The online application is divided into several sections including personal details, relationship details, health and character declarations, and sponsorship details. It’s important to provide as much detail as possible in each section to improve your chances of a successful visa application.
Once you have submitted your online application, you will need to await a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. The processing time for Partner Visas can vary depending on a number of factors including the completeness of your application, the volume of applications being processed, and whether any additional information is required. It’s important to be patient during this time and to avoid contacting the Department of Home Affairs unless absolutely necessary.
In conclusion, navigating the Partner Visa application process for Australian permanent residency can be a complex and time-consuming process. By carefully following the steps outlined above and providing as much detail as possible in your application, you can improve your chances of obtaining an Australian Partner Visa and starting a new life with your loved one in Australia.