Partner Visa – After only 4 months of living together – Subclass 820/801

Background

Alex reached out to us in a bit of a panic. He had been dating Sarah, a naturalised Australian citizen, and his visa was about to expire. They were not married, and they had been living together for less than 4 months.  He was very worried that he wouldn’t be able to continue to stay in Australia.

Strategy

During our TEAMS consultation, they informed us they were living in  NSW. This turned out to be a key point. In most Australian states and territories (except WA and NT), couples can Register their Relationship with the State or Territory in which they live.  This removes the usual 12-month living-together or marriage requirement to be eligible to apply for an onshore Partner Visa, subclass 820/801.

We guided them on how to register their relationship and prepared and lodged their partner visa application. With the relationship registration certificate, we were able to demonstrate their commitment despite their short time living together.

Outcome

The 820/801 visa was lodged just before Alex’s Working Holiday Visa expired, and after approximately nine months of processing, his Subclass 820 visa was granted.

Every relationship is different, and every case has its own challenges. But with the right advice, even tight timelines can lead to successful outcomes.

Speak to one of our expert and friendly MARA agents about your partner visa requirements, and let us identify a strategy that works for you.