An unexpected connection during your Australian holiday may inspire you to seek ways to stay together with your partner. Converting a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) to a Partner Visa is a viable option for couples wishing to continue their journey together in Australia. However, this transition requires careful planning and adherence to specific steps, such as checking eligibility, gathering necessary documents, and properly translating them.
If you are considering applying for a Partner Visa in Australia, here’s a detailed guide on the seven-step process to help you and your partner navigate the application smoothly.
Steps to Convert a Visitor Visa to a Partner Visa in Australia
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before proceeding, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for a Partner Visa:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must be married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- You should not have had a visitor visa canceled or refused.
- Your relationship must be genuine and committed.
- Your partner must be approved as your sponsor by the Department of Home Affairs.
- You must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
Step 2: Check the Status of Your Visitor Visa
Review the conditions and validity of your Visitor Visa (Subclass 600). If necessary, consider the following steps:
- Apply for a waiver of any restrictions if your visa prohibits onshore applications.
- Ensure you have sufficient time left on your visa to formalize your relationship (marriage or registration).
- If your visa is close to expiration, consider extending it to allow for proper documentation and registration.
Step 3: Register Your Relationship or Marriage
The next step is to formalize your relationship. This can be done in two ways:
- Marriage: Getting legally married provides immediate formal evidence of your relationship.
- De facto relationship registration: If you are in a de facto relationship, you may need to provide evidence of cohabitation for at least 12 months. Note that long-distance relationships may not meet this requirement.
Step 4: Prepare the Necessary Documents
To apply for a Partner Visa, you’ll need to submit various documents, including:
- Passport details
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Evidence of your relationship, such as:
- Joint lease agreements
- Utility bills in both names
- Mortgage or joint property ownership documents
- Photos of your shared home and life together
- Police clearance certificates from all relevant countries
- Character assessment documents (e.g., Form 80)
- Health examination reports
- Proof of your partner’s Australian citizenship or permanent residency
It’s crucial to provide detailed and compelling evidence of your relationship to support your application. Working with a migration agent in Adelaide can help strengthen your application and avoid potential rejection.
Step 5: Translate Documents into English
If your documents are in a language other than English, ensure they are translated by a certified translator. This can be done either in Australia or in your home country.
Step 6: Lodge Your Temporary Partner Visa Application
Once you have all the required documents, you can apply for the Subclass 820 Partner Visa (Temporary).
- Submit your application via the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount.
- Pay the required application fees.
- Keep your Transaction Reference Number (TRN) safe for tracking the progress of your application.
Seeking assistance from a Registered Migration Agent in Adelaide can simplify this step and ensure your application is accurate and complete.
Step 7: Monitor and Follow Up on Your Application
After submitting your application, regularly check your email and ImmiAccount for updates or requests for additional information. Respond promptly to any requests from the Department of Home Affairs to avoid delays.
Estimated Costs for a Partner Visa Application
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the costs involved:
- Partner Visa application charge: AUD 8,850
- Health examination: AUD 350 (depending on the test)
- Additional applicants over 18 years: AUD 4,430
- Additional applicants under 18 years: AUD 2,215
- Document translation fees: Varies by translator
- Police certificate fees: Varies by country
Need Help Converting a Visitor Visa to a Partner Visa?
Navigating the process of transitioning from a Visitor Visa to a Partner Visa can be challenging and time-consuming. Seeking professional guidance from a registered migration agent can help simplify the process and improve your chances of success.
Migration Agent Adelaide offers expert advice, ensures accurate documentation, and helps you build a strong case for your Partner Visa application. Contact them today for personalized assistance and take the first step toward your future together in Australia!