Here is a five (5) guide for Filipinos involved in a genuine partner relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Eligible New Zealand citizen, in migrating to Australia in 2024, utilising two (2) Partner Visa pathways, from the Philippines:
Migrating to Australia permanently as a partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen involves the steps directly below:
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and Understand Visa Options:
Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria to apply for a partner visa. Generally, you must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an eligible sponsor who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
There are two (2) distinct partner visa pathways available depending on whether you are applying from within or outside Australia. The main partner visa subclasses are:
- Partner (Provisional) visa (subclass 309) and Partner (Migrant) visa (subclass 100) for partner visa applications from the Philippines or outside of Australia.
- Partner visa (subclass 820) and Partner visa (subclass 801), for partner visa applications within Australia.
Step 2: Prepare Evidence of Relationship and Lodge Visa Application:
Gather evidence to demonstrate the genuineness of your relationship with your partner. This may include documents such as joint bank accounts, joint lease or mortgage agreements, photos together, communication records, and statutory declarations from family and friends in both Australia and the Philippines.
Complete the relevant visa application forms and submit it along with all mandatory documents to the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure that all information provided is accurate and up-to-date including any children the Filipino partner visa applicant may already have.
Step 3: Undergo Health and Character Checks, Wait for Processing and Provide Additional Information if Requested:
You and any Filipino dependent family members included in your application will be required to undergo health examinations to meet Australia’s health requirements. Additionally, you must provide police clearance certificates from all countries you have lived in for 12 months or more, in the past 10 years.
The processing time for partner visa applications can vary depending on various factors such as the number of applications received, i.e. ‘current case loads’, the completeness of your application and the duration of your current relationship. You can check the current processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website.
If the case officer handling your application requires further information or clarification, ensure that you provide it promptly, to avoid delays in processing.
Step 4: Receive Visa Grant and Comply with Visa Conditions:
Once your partner visa application is approved, you will be notified, and you will receive your visa grant letter. The subclass 309/100 visa is granted initially as a temporary visa (subclass 309), which allows you to live in Australia with your partner. After a designated period, you may be eligible to apply for the permanent visa (subclass 100).
Make sure to comply with all visa conditions, including maintaining your relationship with your partner and abiding by Australian laws.
Step 5: Plan Your Move to Australia and Start Your New Life in Australia:
After receiving your visa grant, you can start planning your move to Australia. This may involve organizing your travel arrangements, accommodation, and other necessary arrangements.
Upon arrival in Australia, you can begin your new life with your partner. Familiarize yourself with Australian culture, laws, and services to help you settle in smoothly.
NOTE: The department of immigration in Australia are very strict and apply Public Interest Criteria 4020 when assessing Partner Visa Applications from the Philippines to Australia.
Providing false and/or misleading information or bogus documents can lead to a visa refusal and lengthy periods of prohibiting the visa applicant from entering Australia, even on a Visitor’s Visa.
Partner Migration process can be complex and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Consider seeking professional advice from a migration agent with over 25 years of experience like, RESPALL Migration Australia, to assist you with your application.
