Bringing the Rest of Your Family to Australia: Immigration Tips

Posted on: 8 March 2023

If you are thinking about applying for a partner visa to Australia, there is a lot of information you need to know before you get underway. You need to understand the different types of partner visas available and what information you need to provide in order to be successful. But where should you start?

Types of Partner Visas Available 

There are several types of partner visas available, including spouse, prospective marriage, de facto and interdependent relationship visas. Each type has its own set of requirements that must be met before an application can be accepted and processed. Generally speaking, all applicants must provide evidence of their relationship with their Australian partner. This could include photos together or any other documents that can prove the relationship is genuine, ongoing and continuing.

Evidence Required For A Partner Visa Application

In addition to providing evidence of the relationship between you and your Australian partner, certain documents must also be provided with every application. These documents include but are not limited to your birth certificate (or other appropriate identification documents), passport-sized photographs of both yourself and your Australian partner and proof that your Australian partner meets eligibility criteria (e.g., income level).

You may need clearance certificates from each country in which you have resided in recent times and proof of health insurance in Australia (if applicable). Additionally, it is important to ensure that all documentation is up-to-date and accurate, as outdated or incorrect information may result in delays or even rejection of your application.

Medical Examination & Character Test Requirements

Assuming that all the evidence listed above is provided, applicants must also undergo a medical examination and character test before their visa can be approved by Australian authorities. The medical examination will determine if the applicant is suffering from any diseases or conditions that may affect their ability to work or live in the country, while the character test will assess whether they meet minimum character standards as required by law. Applicants who fail either test may need additional documentation or may even be refused entry into Australia, depending on their circumstances.                                                  

What to Do Next

Applying for a partner visa to Australia can seem daunting at first, but with proper preparation, it doesn't have to be overly arduous. If you become familiar with all the different types of visas available and gather all the relevant documentation beforehand, you can make sure that your application process runs as smoothly as possible. And it's always a good idea to enlist the services of a skilled immigration solicitor. While there will be a cost involved, it could certainly be an investment in your future.