The australia partner visa is a popular immigration route for individuals seeking to join their Australian partner in Australia. Whether you are in a de facto relationship or married to an Australian citizen or permanent resident, this visa allows you to live, work, and eventually apply for permanent residency in Australia. If you’re considering applying for the Australia Partner Visa, here's everything you need to know about the process, eligibility, and benefits of this visa.

What is the Australia Partner Visa?

The Australia Partner Visa is specifically designed for people in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa allows individuals to live in Australia with their partner, work, study, and access various social benefits. It is a two-stage visa application process.

• Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820): This is the first stage of the process and allows you to stay in Australia while the Department of Home Affairs processes your permanent residency application. After being granted the temporary visa, you can live and work in Australia.
• Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801): After two years, you can apply for the permanent visa, which grants you indefinite residency in Australia. You can stay in Australia as a permanent resident and have access to benefits such as Medicare and work rights.

Eligibility Requirements for the Australia Partner Visa

To apply for the Australia Partner Visa, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These include:

1. Genuine and Continuing Relationship: You must prove that you are in a committed and genuine relationship with your Australian partner. This can be demonstrated through shared financial responsibilities, joint living arrangements, and social evidence of your relationship.
2. Sponsor Requirements: Your Australian partner must be your sponsor. They need to demonstrate their willingness to support you throughout the application process, including financial support and help with settling in Australia.
3. Health and Character Standards: You must meet certain health and character requirements, including undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearance certificates.
4. Proof of Relationship: Providing sufficient evidence of your relationship is crucial. This may include joint bank accounts, lease agreements, shared bills, photographs, and personal statements about your relationship's history.

How to Apply for the Australia Partner Visa

1. Gather Documents: Start by collecting all the required documents, including identification, proof of relationship, health and character assessments, and other supporting documents.
2. Complete the Application: You can submit your application online via the Department of Home Affairs website. Be sure to provide all the necessary information and attach the supporting documents to avoid delays.
3. Wait for Temporary Visa (subclass 820): Once you apply, you will receive a temporary partner visa that allows you to stay in Australia while your permanent residency application is processed.
4. Apply for Permanent Visa (subclass 801): After holding the temporary visa for two years, you can apply for the permanent partner visa, which grants you indefinite residency in Australia.

Benefits of the Australia Partner Visa

The Australia Partner Visa offers numerous benefits for both temporary and permanent residents, including:

• Right to Live and Work in Australia: Both the temporary and permanent visas allow you to live and work in Australia, providing you with the opportunity to build a life and career with your partner.
• Access to Healthcare: As a permanent resident, you will be eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, which provides comprehensive health coverage.
• Social Benefits: Permanent residents are entitled to social security benefits, including access to welfare and child support services, depending on eligibility.
• Path to Australian Citizenship: Holding a permanent partner visa allows you to eventually apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the required residency period.

Conclusion

The australia partner visa is an excellent pathway for individuals who want to join their partner in Australia and start a new life together. By meeting the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application process, you can enjoy the benefits of living, working, and eventually becoming a permanent resident of Australia. It’s important to ensure that you provide accurate information and sufficient evidence of your relationship, as this will significantly impact the success of your application. If you’re unsure about the process, consider seeking the help of a migration agent to guide you through the steps.