Applying for an Australian Partner Visa can be one of the most exciting and nerve, wracking journeys in your migration story. While the goal is to unite with your partner in Australia, the process is highly detailed and evidence, based, meaning small missteps can lead to significant delays or even visa refusal.
To help you succeed, here are the 7 most common partner visa pitfalls, and how to avoid them.
- Incomplete or Inconsistent Evidence of Relationship
Partner visas are assessed on the genuineness of your relationship, which must be backed by consistent evidence.
What to watch out for:
- Mismatched dates in statements and documents
- Missing joint evidence (e.g., finances, cohabitation, travel)
Pro Tip: Use a checklist to align all personal statements, photos, and documents to a single, consistent timeline.
- Misunderstanding De Facto Requirements
Many applicants believe simply living together is enough, but to meet the de facto criteria for a partner visa, you generally need to demonstrate a genuine and ongoing relationship akin to marriage, and not just cohabitation.
While the 12-month cohabitation rule is commonly required, there are exceptions.
Pro Tip: If you’re under the 12-month mark and eligible, register your relationship early and gather diverse evidence to support your case.
- Weak Statutory Declarations
Many declarations from family or friends lack substance.
What to include:
- Personal observations about your relationship
- Milestones they’ve witnessed
- How your relationship functions day, to, day
Pro Tip: Guide your referees with a template to help them write clear, detailed statements.
- Choosing the Wrong Visa Subclass
Confusion between onshore (820/801) and offshore (309/100) subclasses can lead to incorrect or invalid submissions.
Pro Tip: Determine whether you’re eligible to apply from within Australia before lodging.
- Ignoring Health or Character Concerns
Late police checks or omitted disclosures (like visa refusals or minor convictions) can derail your application.
Pro Tip: Be honest upfront and start gathering your health and character documents early.
- Poor Application Timing
Submitting too early without evidence, or too late after your current visa expires, can create legal complications.
Pro Tip: Plan a timeline that allows you to gather strong documentation and avoid applying under pressure.
- Not Working with a Licensed Advisors
DIY applications may seem simple but can miss crucial legal and evidentiary nuances.
Pro Tip: An experienced migration consultant can review, correct, and enhance your application to boost your chances.
Need Help Starting Your Journey?
As Registered Australian Migration Consultants, we help couples from around the world navigate Australia’s migration process with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re:
- Starting your partner visa application
- Transitioning from another visa
- Facing challenges with documentation
We will guide you every step of the way.
Book a consultation today and take your next step toward building your future in Australia, with the right support behind you.