Applying for a Partner visa is a popular pathway for couples who wish to continue their relationship in Australia. For couples who are not yet married and have not lived together for at least 12 months, registering their relationship can strengthen their visa application.
This blog will explain what a registered relationship is, its advantages, and how couples across Australia can register their relationship for migration purposes. For specific advice tailored to your situation, contact Australian Migration Agents.
Understanding relationship registration
To qualify for a Partner visa, applicants must typically prove they are either married or in a de facto relationship. Couples planning to marry soon may instead apply for a Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300).
In general, couples applying for a Partner visa need to demonstrate that they have lived together for at least 12 months, as this is considered proof of a de facto relationship. However, this can be a challenge for couples who are unable to live together before the visa is granted due to personal circumstances.
Fortunately, the Department of Home Affairs allows registered relationships to serve as evidence of a de facto relationship. While all other visa requirements must still be met, registering the relationship can increase the likelihood of a successful visa application.
An Australian Migration Agent can guide you through the visa requirements and help explain how they apply to your particular case.
Benefits of registering your relationship
Registering your relationship can offer several advantages, including:
- Formal legal recognition for migration and other legal purposes in Australia.
- Easier process for proving the authenticity of the relationship, as it is formally recognised under Australian law.
Eligibility for relationship registration
The requirements for registering a relationship vary between states and territories in Australia. Generally, both parties must be over 18 years old, not related, and not already in a relationship. Same-sex and opposite-sex couples can both register their relationships. If one partner has been previously married or in a relationship, proof of legal separation will be required.
At the time of writing, relationship registration is available in Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia. In Western Australia, registration is possible, but it is not recognised for migration purposes. Relationship registration is not available in the Northern Territory.
How to register a relationship in different states
Queensland
In Queensland, at least one partner must reside in the state. There is a 10-day cooling-off period after lodging an application. Couples must provide three forms of ID, not be in a prohibited relationship, pay the registration fee, and submit a completed application form. Registration can be completed online, by post, or in person.
New South Wales
In NSW, at least one partner must live in the state. A 28-day cooling-off period applies. Couples must provide three forms of ID, pay the fee, and submit the application form. Applications can be made online, by post, or in person. NSW also offers commemorative certificates and the option for a relationship ceremony.
Australian Capital Territory
In the ACT, couples must show that one partner has lived in the territory for at least three months. Proof of identity, payment of the fee, and a completed application form are required. Applications can be submitted online, by post, or in person.
Victoria
Victorian couples must have one partner living in the state at the time of application. The process includes submitting proof of identity, a statutory declaration, and the relevant application fee. Couples can apply online, and the Victorian Government offers commemorative certificates for an additional fee.
Tasmania
In Tasmania, both partners must reside in the state. Couples need to submit proof of identity and pay the registration fee. Applications can be completed online.
South Australia
In South Australia, at least one partner must reside in the state. Certified copies of identity documents, proof of residence, a statutory declaration, and the application fee are required. Couples can apply online.
For further details, visit the respective state's Births, Deaths and Marriages website.
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Why use Australian Migration Agents
Navigating the partner visa application process can be a complex and overwhelming experience, but with the support of Australian Migration Agents, it becomes a much simpler and more manageable journey. Our team is dedicated to helping couples unite in Australia by providing expert guidance every step of the way. We prepare and submit your partner visa application quickly and efficiently, ensuring that all necessary documentation is thoroughly checked and complete to avoid unnecessary delays.
Clear and transparent communication is at the core of our service, and we keep you updated with regular progress reports, explaining each requirement and pathway in a straightforward manner. Our low-cost, transparent fees outline all costs upfront, ensuring you know exactly what to expect without any hidden charges. With years of experience in partner visa applications, we offer a detailed, tailored approach to your specific circumstances, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
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