If you want to live in Australia with your partner, understanding the spouse visa for Australia is your first step. This visa lets you stay in Australia based on your relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
You might also hear about partner visas or de facto visas, which are closely connected but have some differences. Knowing these options helps you decide which visa fits your situation best and how to start the process.
What Is a Partner Visa for Australia?
The partner visa is for people who have a close relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It usually comes in two stages. First, you apply for a temporary visa that allows you to live and work in Australia while your permanent visa is being processed. After a period, usually two years, you can apply for permanent residency.
This visa covers both married couples and de facto partners—people who live together in a genuine relationship without being married. This means that if you have been living together for at least 12 months, you may apply under the partner visa category, even if you are not legally married.
What Is a De Facto Visa for Australia?
A de facto visa is a type of partner visa for couples who live together but are not married. Australia recognizes de facto relationships as long as you can prove that you have been living together for at least 12 months and your relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Proof is important here. You will need to show evidence such as joint bank accounts, shared bills, photos, and statements from family and friends. The government wants to see that your relationship is real and not just for the visa.
The de facto visa process is similar to the partner visa process. You first get a temporary visa, then after some time, you can apply for permanent residency. Both visa types give you the right to live, work, and study in Australia.
How to Apply for These Visas
Applying for a partner or de facto visa requires careful preparation. Here is a simple overview of the process:
- Check Your Eligibility
You must be in a genuine relationship with your partner, who must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. You should be at least 18 years old. - Gather Your Documents
Collect proof of your relationship, including joint financial records, household bills, photos, and personal statements. Also, prepare identity documents and health checks. - Submit Your Application
You apply online through the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs website. You will need to pay the visa fee and upload your documents. - Wait for Processing
Processing times vary, but it usually takes between 12 and 24 months. During this time, you might be asked to provide more information. - Apply for Permanent Residency
After holding the temporary visa, you apply for the permanent visa to live in Australia indefinitely.
What Makes the Spouse Visa Different?
The spouse visa is a specific category under the partner visa family, designed for couples who are married or engaged. It gives couples who are married a clear pathway to live in Australia.
One important thing about the spouse visa is that you can apply from outside Australia, which is different from some partner visas that require you to apply while inside the country. The spouse visa also has a similar two-stage process: temporary visa followed by permanent residency.
What Rights Do These Visas Give You?
Holding a partner or spouse visa comes with many benefits. You can:
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- Study at Australian institutions
- Access Medicare, Australia's public health care system
- Travel in and out of Australia while your visa is valid
- Eventually apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements
These rights help you settle in and build a life with your partner in Australia.
Common Questions About Partner and De Facto Visas
- Can I work while on a partner visa?
Yes, both temporary and permanent partner visas allow you to work in Australia.
- How long does it take to get permanent residency?
Usually between 1 to 2 years after your temporary visa is granted.
- Do I need to be married to apply?
No, you can be married or in a de facto relationship that has lasted at least 12 months.
- Can I include my children in the application?
Yes, dependent children can be included in your visa application.
- What if I am outside Australia?
You can apply for some partner visas from outside Australia, especially the spouse visa subclass 309 and 100.
Summary
If you want to join your partner in Australia, the spouse visa for Australia is often the best route for married couples. For those in a genuine relationship but not married, the partner visa or de facto visa offers a similar path to living and working in Australia. Both types give you the chance to make Australia your home and start building your future together.
If you want personalized help with your visa application, KnN Migration offers experienced guidance to walk you through the process. They can help you prepare your documents, understand requirements, and give advice tailored to your situation, making the journey smoother for you.
