Applying for an Australian partner visa is an exciting yet complex process that requires attention to detail, understanding the requirements, and preparing your application carefully. Whether you're applying for a temporary or permanent partner visa, it’s essential to follow the correct procedures to increase your chances of approval. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key aspects of applying for an Australian partner visa, highlighting crucial notes that every applicant should be aware of.

1. What is an Australian Partner Visa?
The Australian partner visa allows the spouse, de facto partner, or fiancé(e) of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. There are two main subclasses of partner visas:

• Subclass 820/801: For those applying from within Australia (temporary and permanent visas).
• Subclass 309/100: For those applying from outside Australia (temporary and permanent visas).

The application process is multi-step, involving submission of forms, evidence, and possibly attending interviews or health checks. Approval of this visa grants the applicant the right to live, work, and study in Australia while being in a relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

2. Eligibility Criteria for the Australian Partner Visa
Before you begin the application process, it is crucial to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for an Australian partner visa. The general requirements are as follows:

2.1. Relationship Requirements
Your relationship with your Australian partner must meet the following conditions:

• Marriage: You must be legally married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• De facto relationship: If you are in a de facto relationship, you need to have lived together for at least 12 months before applying.
• Engaged to be married: If you are engaged, you may also be eligible for a partner visa.

2.2. Genuine and Continuing Relationship
You must prove that your relationship is genuine and continuing. This can be demonstrated through various documents such as shared financial responsibilities, joint living arrangements, and supporting evidence from friends, family, and colleagues.

2.3. Health and Character Requirements

• Health: You must undergo a health check to ensure you do not have any medical conditions that could pose a threat to public health or require excessive healthcare resources.
• Character: You will need to provide police certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years to prove that you have a good character.

2.4. Sponsorship Requirements
Your Australian partner must meet the requirements to sponsor your visa application, including being an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

3. Key Steps in the Australian Partner Visa Application Process
The application for a partner visa typically follows a structured process that requires specific documents, fees, and additional steps. Here are the main stages of the application:

3.1. Prepare Your Application Documents
The first step is to gather all the necessary documents for your Australian partner visa application. Common documents include:

• Personal identification: Passport, birth certificates, marriage certificates, or evidence of a de facto relationship.
• Proof of relationship: Joint bank statements, bills in both names, photographs, and written statements from friends and family.
• Character documents: Police clearances, penal certificates from any countries you’ve lived in.
• Health documents: Results of your health check or medical examination.

The quality of evidence you provide can significantly impact the outcome of your application, so ensure all documentation is complete and accurate.

3.2. Submit the Application
You can apply for the Australian partner visa online through the Department of Home Affairs website or in paper format. Ensure that your application is filled out correctly and submitted along with all necessary documents.

3.3. Pay the Visa Application Fee
There is a visa application fee for the Australian partner visa. As of 2021, the fee for the Subclass 820/801 or Subclass 309/100 visa is approximately AUD $7,850 for the primary applicant. There may be additional costs for health checks, police certificates, and translation services.

3.4. Wait for the Visa Processing
After submission, your application will undergo processing. The processing time can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of your case and the backlog of applications. Typically, the processing time for a temporary partner visa (Subclass 820 or 309) is between 12-18 months, while the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100) may take longer.

During this waiting period, you may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documentation. If you are granted a temporary partner visa, you can live and work in Australia while awaiting a decision on your permanent visa.

3.5. Permanent Partner Visa Grant
Once you have held the temporary partner visa for at least two years, you will be eligible for the permanent partner visa (Subclass 801 or 100). The Department of Home Affairs will assess your relationship at this stage to confirm its ongoing validity.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Partner Visa Australia
While applying for a partner visa can be straightforward, many applicants make mistakes that delay or even jeopardize their visa approval. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

4.1. Insufficient Evidence of a Genuine Relationship
Many applicants fail to provide enough convincing evidence to prove the authenticity of their relationship. It’s essential to demonstrate that your relationship is real and continuing, so provide as much documentation as possible to support your case.

4.2. Incorrect or Incomplete Application
Ensure that your application is filled out accurately and all required information is provided. Missing information or errors on the application form can lead to delays or rejection.

4.3. Delaying Health and Character Checks
Ensure you complete your health and character checks promptly. Delays in obtaining police certificates or medical exams can prolong the application process.

4.4. Not Meeting the Financial Sponsorship Requirements
Your Australian partner must prove their financial stability to sponsor your application. Failing to provide the necessary financial documents could impact the visa decision.

5. Tips for a Successful Australian Partner Visa Application
To increase your chances of a successful partner visa application, consider the following tips:

5.1. Plan Ahead
The partner visa application process can take time, so it’s crucial to plan well in advance. Make sure you gather all the necessary documentation and meet the eligibility criteria before applying.

5.2. Be Honest
Always provide truthful and accurate information. Misrepresentation or failure to disclose information can result in the refusal of your visa application and a ban from future applications.

5.3. Seek Professional Assistance
Navigating the partner visa application process can be complex, especially if you are unsure about the documentation or requirements. Seeking assistance from a migration agent or lawyer can help ensure your application is correctly prepared and submitted.

6. What Happens After Your Partner Visa is Granted?
Once your Australian partner visa is granted, you will be able to live, work, and study in Australia. If you were granted a temporary partner visa first, you will need to wait at least two years before applying for the permanent visa.

During this time, you must continue to meet the visa conditions, and your relationship will be reassessed by the Department of Home Affairs. It is important to keep your documents updated and notify the authorities of any changes in your circumstances, such as a change of address or marital status.

7. Conclusion
The Australian partner visa is an excellent opportunity for couples to live and work together in Australia, but it’s important to understand the requirements and the process involved. By preparing your application thoroughly, avoiding common mistakes, and seeking professional guidance, you can improve your chances of securing this visa.

The process can be lengthy and complicated, but with patience and attention to detail, you can successfully navigate the application and enjoy a bright future together with your partner in Australia.