How to Apply for a Partner Visa in Australia

Planning to build a life in Australia with your partner? Applying for a partner visa involves a detailed process, but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Our guide breaks down the process on how to apply for a partner visa in Australia, making each step clear and easy to follow.

Start by creating an ImmiAccount, then complete Form 47SP (the main application) while your Australian partner submits Form 40SP (the sponsorship form). Once you’ve paid the visa fee, gather and attach all required documents to support your application.

Want a smoother application process? Read on for a step-by-step guide, including tips to avoid common mistakes.

How to Apply for a Partner Visa in Australia – A Quick Overview

Securing a partner visa in Australia involves several key steps:

• Create an ImmiAccount
• Complete Form 47SP (visa application)
• Have your partner fill out Form 40SP (sponsorship form)
• Pay the application fee
• Gather and attach required documents
• Submit your application online

The detailed process is outlined below, guiding you through each step with clarity.

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Navigating the partner visa application process in Australia doesn’t have to be complicated. At Lewis & Bollard, our expert immigration advisors and lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re in NSW, VIC or QLD, we offer tailored assistance to ensure your partner visa application is smooth and stress-free. Our team has a deep understanding of the nuances of immigration law, helping countless couples unite and start their new lives together. 

Don’t let paperwork and legal complexities slow you down. Call us at +612 9283 0888 or visit our Contact Us page today to see how we can help you resolve any partner visa issues with ease.

Basic Requirements to Apply for a Partner Visa in Australia

A partner visa allows individuals to enter or remain in Australia based on their married or de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. When planning to apply for a partner visa in Australia, understanding the basic requirements is crucial. This sets the foundation for a successful application. Here are the requirements:

• Proof of a genuine and continuing relationship: This includes shared financial responsibilities, social recognition of your relationship and a commitment to a shared life.
• Health and character checks: Applicants must meet certain health and character standards, including a medical examination and police certificates.
• Sponsorship by an eligible partner: The Australian resident must sponsor the applicant for the visa duration.
• Mutual commitment: Both partners need to prove that they are committed to a shared life to the exclusion of all others.
• Cohabitation: You need to demonstrate that you live with your partner or, if not, that any separation is temporary.

Is the Application Process Different for Temporary and Permanent Partner Visas?

The application process for permanent and temporary partner visas in Australia shares some common steps, but there are distinct differences that applicants should be aware of.

Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820):

This visa allows you to live in Australia with your partner temporarily. It is the first step towards a permanent Partner visa (subclass 801). Typically, you apply for both temporary and permanent visas at the same time using the same application. However, you’re first granted a temporary visa.

Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801):

Applicants can be eligible for this visa after holding the subclass 820 visa and continuing to meet all relationship requirements. A separate assessment is conducted two years after you lodge your initial application, during which you need to prove that you and your partner are still in a genuine and continuing relationship.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Partner Visa in Australia

Applying for a partner visa can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process less overwhelming. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through.

1. Create an ImmiAccount

Begin your partner visa application by setting up an ImmiAccount online. This personalised account on the official Department of Home Affairs website allows you to manage your application from start to finish. It serves as your primary platform for submitting forms, uploading documents and tracking the status of your application, ensuring everything is centralised and accessible.

2. Fill Out the Application Form (Form 47SP)

The application process formally begins with Form 47SP, where you detail your circumstances and the nature of your relationship. This form is comprehensive, requiring accurate information on your partnership, living arrangements and mutual commitments. It’s essential to fill this out carefully, as it forms the basis of your eligibility assessment.

3. Sponsor Completes Form 40SP

Your Australian partner must complete Form 40SP, which is a critical component of the visa process. This sponsorship form is a declaration of their support for your application and confirms their commitment to the relationship. It includes details about their background, financial status and the nature of their relationship with you, which the immigration authorities will review closely.

4. Pay the Visa Application Fee

The visa application fee is a mandatory component that must be settled at the time of submission. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application. It’s crucial to ensure that all payment details are correct to avoid any delays in processing.

5. Attach All Required Documents

Along with your application forms, you need to attach a range of documents that prove the legitimacy and duration of your relationship. These include joint bank account statements, lease or mortgage agreements and photographs together. Each document plays a vital role in establishing the authenticity of your partnership.

6. Apply online

Once all forms are completed and documents are gathered, the final step is to submit your application through your ImmiAccount. This submission is crucial as it marks the beginning of the review process by the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure that all information is verified and that no required sections are left incomplete before submission.

Summing Up

Applying for a partner visa in Australia is a big step toward building a life together. While the process involves multiple steps, like setting up an ImmiAccount and submitting key documents, it’s manageable with the right preparation. With careful planning, you and your partner will be one step closer to your new life in Australia.