Are you searching a reliable Australia Spousal Visa? Learn everything about Australia Spousal Visa for foreigners, including eligibility, application process, costs & timeline.
Australia is a top destination for couples looking to reunite and build a future together. The Australian Spousal Visa allows foreign partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live, work, and study in Australia. This comprehensive guide will cover eligibility, application steps, processing time, fees, and more.
Types of Australian Spousal Visas
Australia offers two main types of spousal visas under the Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 and Subclass 309/100):
- Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) – For applicants already in Australia.
- Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100) – For applicants outside Australia.
Each visa follows a two-stage process:
- Temporary Visa (Subclass 820 or 309): Allows temporary residence while awaiting the permanent visa decision.
- Permanent Visa (Subclass 801 or 100): Granted after a minimum of two years if the relationship remains genuine.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an Australian Spousal Visa, you must:
- Be married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Provide proof of a genuine and ongoing relationship.
- Meet health and character requirements.
- Be at least 18 years old (for marriage-based applications).
- Provide evidence of cohabitation if applying under the de facto category (at least 12 months of living together or registration of the relationship).
Required Documents
Applicants must submit various documents, including:
- Identity documents: Passport, national ID, and birth certificate.
- Relationship evidence: Marriage certificate, photos, joint bank statements, rental agreements, and communication records.
- Financial proof: Shared assets, joint financial commitments, or income proof.
- Health and character checks: Medical examinations and police clearance certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for 12+ months in the past 10 years.
Related Post: UK Marriage Visa For Foreigners
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Collect all supporting documents to demonstrate the legitimacy of your relationship and meet health and character criteria.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Applications are lodged via the ImmiAccount portal on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. The application fee must be paid at this stage.
Step 3: Partner’s Sponsorship Application
Your sponsoring partner must complete a sponsorship application to confirm their eligibility and commitment.
Step 4: Health and Character Assessments
Schedule medical exams with an authorized doctor and obtain police clearance certificates.
Step 5: Await Processing and Provide Additional Information
Processing can take 12 to 24 months. During this period, the Department of Home Affairs may request more documents or an interview.
Step 6: Receive Visa Decision
If approved, a temporary partner visa (Subclass 820 or 309) is granted first. The applicant can live and work in Australia while awaiting the permanent partner visa (Subclass 801 or 100), typically granted after two years.
Processing Time & Fees
- Processing Time: 12–24 months for the temporary visa and an additional 12+ months for permanent residency.
- Cost: The Partner Visa application fee is around AUD 8,850 for the primary applicant (as of 2024).
- Additional costs include health exams, police checks, translations, and biometrics.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusals
- Insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship
- Failure to meet health or character requirements
- Providing false or misleading information
- Financial ineligibility of the sponsor
Tips to Increase Approval Chances
- Provide strong relationship evidence, including photos, travel records, and messages.
- Maintain financial commitments together (joint accounts, utility bills, property leases).
- Submit a well-documented relationship timeline.
- Respond quickly to requests for additional information from immigration officials.
Benefits of the Spousal Visa
- Work and study in Australia
- Access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
- Opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship after permanent residency
- Sponsorship options for family members
Final Thoughts
The Australia Spousal Visa is a great opportunity for couples to live together permanently in Australia. However, it requires strong evidence, patience, and financial investment. Ensuring that you meet all requirements and submit a well-prepared application can significantly improve your chances of success.
For the latest updates on visa rules and processing times, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.