If you are in a relationship with an Australian citizen or a permanent resident and are looking to live together in Australia, you may be eligible for a Partner Visa. Understanding the eligibility criteria for a Partner Visa in Australia is essential to ensure a smooth application process and increase your chances of approval.
A Partner Visa allows you to live and work in Australia with your partner, who must be either an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. There are several types of Partner Visas available, including the subclass 820/801 onshore visa for partners already in Australia, and the subclass 309/100 offshore visa for partners applying from outside Australia.
To be eligible for a Partner Visa, you must be in a genuine and committed relationship with your partner. This means that you must be able to provide evidence of your relationship, such as joint bank accounts, shared bills, or photographs together. The Department of Home Affairs will assess your relationship based on the nature of your commitment, the length of your relationship, and your level of financial and emotional interdependence.
You must also meet certain health and character requirements to be eligible for a Partner Visa. This includes undergoing a health examination to ensure that you do not have any health conditions that could pose a risk to public health in Australia. You must also provide police clearances from every country that you have lived in for more than 12 months in the past 10 years to prove that you are of good character.
In addition, you must be over 18 years of age to apply for a Partner Visa in Australia. If you are under 18, you may still be eligible for a visa as a dependent child of your partner. There are also certain circumstances, such as if you are in a same-sex relationship or have been in a long-distance relationship, which may affect your eligibility for a Partner Visa.
It is important to note that the application process for a Partner Visa can be lengthy and complex, so it is recommended to seek assistance from a migration agent or lawyer who specializes in partner visas. They can help you navigate the application process, gather the necessary documentation, and ensure that your application meets the eligibility criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs.
In conclusion, understanding the eligibility criteria for a Partner Visa in Australia is crucial for a successful application. By meeting the requirements for a genuine and committed relationship, as well as health and character assessments, you can increase your chances of being granted a Partner Visa and starting a new life in Australia with your partner.
