The Australia 309 Partner Visa

Australia 309 Partner Visa: Requirements and Application Steps

The  Subclass 309 Partner Visa  is a temporary visa that allows individuals outside Australia to join their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen partner. This visa is the first step in a two-stage process leading to permanent residency through the Subclass 100 visa.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Subclass 309 Partner Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Age : Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
• Relationship Status : Applicants must be either:
  • Married to their Australian partner (with a legally valid marriage).
  • In a de facto relationship for at least 12 months prior to applying.
• Sponsorship : The applicant's partner must sponsor them, and they cannot have applied for or received a Partner Visa in the last five years.
• Character and Health : Both partners must meet health and character requirements, which include undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearances.
• Genuineness of Relationship : Applicants must provide evidence demonstrating the authenticity of their relationship, such as shared finances, social recognition as a couple, and commitment to each other
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Application Steps

1. Gather Required Documents : Compile all necessary documents that prove your relationship and meet eligibility criteria. This includes:
   • Proof of identity (passports, birth certificates).
   • Evidence of the relationship (photos, joint bank statements, communication records).
   • Health insurance documentation.
2. Create an ImmiAccount : Set up an online account on the Department of Home Affairs website to manage your application.  https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login
3. Complete Application Forms : Fill out the appropriate forms:
   • Form 47SP for the visa applicant.
   • Form 40SP for the sponsor.
4. Pay Visa Application Fee : The fee for the Subclass 309 visa starts at AUD 7,850. Additional fees apply for dependents
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5. Submit Application : Ensure that you submit your application while you are outside Australia. Attach all required documents electronically via your ImmiAccount.
6. Sponsorship Application : Your Australian partner must also submit their sponsorship application through their ImmiAccount using your transaction reference number (TRN).
7. Wait for Processing : Processing times can vary significantly but typically range from 16 to 22 months. During this period, ensure that both you and your partner remain compliant with any requests from immigration authorities
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Specific Considerations for Applicants from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh

For applicants from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh:

• Ensure that all documents are translated into English if they are in another language.
• Be prepared for potentially longer processing times due to increased scrutiny of applications from certain countries.
• Familiarize yourself with any specific cultural or legal considerations that might affect your application process in these regions.

Official Resources

For detailed information and updates regarding the Subclass 309 Partner Visa, it is essential to consult official resources:

• Department of Home Affairs - Partner Visa Information
• Visa Application Charges

By following these guidelines and ensuring all documentation is thorough and accurate, applicants can enhance their chances of successfully obtaining the Subclass 309 Partner Visa.