Partner, Spouse & Family Migration

Partner, Spouse & Family Migration (Subclasses 820/801, 309/100, 300)

These visas allow a partner, spouse, or other family members of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. The most common is the Partner Visa.

Visa Application Whole Process (Partner Visa Example)

1. Application Lodgement: You generally apply for the temporary and permanent Partner visas together (e.g., Subclass 820/801 or 309/100).

2. Evidence of Relationship: Submit extensive evidence proving the relationship is genuine and continuing.

3. Sponsorship Approval: Your partner/spouse, as the sponsor, must be approved.

4. Temporary Visa Grant: The temporary visa (820 or 309) is usually granted first.

5. Permanent Visa Assessment: Approximately two years after the initial application, the Department assesses whether the relationship is still genuine and continuing to grant the permanent visa (801 or 100).

Where and How to Apply for Visa?

• Where: Applications are lodged online via ImmiAccount.

• How: You (the applicant) log in to ImmiAccount, start the application, and pay the substantial application charge. Your partner (the sponsor) must also complete a separate online sponsorship form, linking it to your application.

  • Onshore: If the applicant is in Australia (Subclass 820/801).

  • Offshore: If the applicant is outside Australia (Subclass 309/100).

Necessary Documents (Key Examples)

• Identity Documents: Passports, birth certificates.

• Marriage Certificate: (If married).

• Relationship Evidence (Four Pillars): Comprehensive documents addressing four key areas:

  1. Financial aspects: Joint bank accounts, joint leases/mortgages, shared bills.

  2. Nature of the household: Shared living arrangements, joint responsibilities (e.g., bills, chores).

  3. Social aspects: Joint travel, photographs, evidence of relationship known to others (Statutory Declarations from supporting witnesses – Form 888s are no longer Stat Decs, but written statements are required).

  4. Nature of the commitment: Length of relationship, knowledge of each other’s circumstances, future plans.

• Character and Health Checks: Police certificates and health examinations.

Visa Question Related to Immigration Process