Partner visa subclass 309 is a temporary permission granted to a person who, like the holder of the visa, is in a legitimate relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or a qualifying New Zealand citizen to reside in the country. Under Partner Visa 309, one cannot apply through self-service without the help of an immigration agent.
It may take time when done on your own, but seeking the help of a professional will help you capture this visa and be on your way to Australia to join your partner.
From 1 July 2023, changes to Australian citizenship eligibility for some New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa will apply. See Direct Pathway to Australian Citizenship for New Zealand citizens. Here’s how it is done:
What You Should Know about in Application Process for Partner Visa 309?
1) Check Your Eligibility
To avoid disappointment from the onset, one must confirm certain general requirements before applying for a scholarship. For the Application Process for Partner Visa 309, you must:
- Be married and live together, or, if married and living in separate homes, be able to show good and sufficient cause for why you are not living with your spouse.
- Have a legitimate ongoing connection with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen.
- Candidates must meet the health and character standards necessary for the discharge of the duties above.
- Your sponsor (your partner) must also meet the various criteria, such as not having sponsored another partner in the previous 5 years.
2) Gather Required Documents
The Application Process for Partner Visa 309 requires several documents, so it is recommended that all of them be gathered from the beginning. Below are some key categories of documents you’ll need:
Identity Documents
- Passport bio-data page.
- Birth certificate.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable).
Relationship Evidence
There is a requirement to prove the existence of a relationship and its duration. Application Process for Partner Visa 309 includes:
- Comments about your past and future together, specifically where and when you two met, and what your plans are.
- Any document that can prove that both individuals are living together, for example, tenancy agreements or bills paid under both their names.
- Messages, correspondence, and any other evidence that they have continuing contact.
- Combined financial partnerships involving the holding of joint bank accounts.
Sponsor’s Documents
Your partner needs to supply documents like:
- Photo identification: a valid passport or driver’s license, proof of Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or New Zealand citizenship.
- Provide financial proof to demonstrate income or ability to submit the sponsorship needs.
Health and Character Checks
- Police Clearance Report from each country that you have resided for more than twelve consecutive months over the last ten years.
- Pass a Medical Examination from an Australian Immigration panel doctor.
3) Complete an Online Application
Partner Visa Subclass 309 is an online application through the Immi Account on the Australia Department of Home Affairs website.
Steps to Submit Your Application:
- If you haven’t already done so, sign up for an ImmiAccount.
- Fill out the online application form for the Partner Visa 309. Always complete the detailed sections of the paper neatly and in full.
- All required documents should be uploaded. Ensure that they are scanned, clear, and in the proper format, only in PDF, JPEG, and PNG formats.
4) Provide Biometrics
Once you have completed the application process, biometric tests may be required, which may include fingerprints and a photograph. You will be informed through your ImmiAccount or email of where and how to do this step.
5) Wait for the Initial Assessment
After you have filed your application, you must wait while the Department of Home Affairs does an initial review of your case. The basic processing time for the visa subclass 309 visa Australia is quite a bit above average, ranging from 15 to 24 months on average before a decision is made.
During this waiting period:
- Check your Immi Account for status changes.
- Depending on the type of proposal document, the author may be asked to supply additional data.
- Do not book a trip until after your visa is issued, as being in a prohibited location during the processing could be disadvantageous.
6) Go for an Interview (If Necessary)
Stay truthful and make your answers consecutive because different patterns can cause many problems.
7) Receive Your Decision
If the application is approved, then you will be issued a Partner 309 visa Australia. You can also use it to gain entry into Australia and live there while waiting for the Partner Visa 100 approval.
8) Work and study in Australia
Navigate through Australia’s Medicare, which will allow you to access the public healthcare system.
After receiving the 309 visa, one is allowed to apply for the Partner Visa 100 after dwelling on the 309 visa Australia for at least two years, effectively meeting all the requirements.
Read Also: Partner Visas Subclass 100: Key to Unlocking Your Life Together in Australia
Final Thoughts
The process of applying for the Partner Visa subclass 309 can, at times, appear to be quite daunting. Still, they are relatively easy, particularly when one takes time and energy to ensure that one fills them correctly.
Plan as early as you can, and ensure that your application process is well structured to make your application detailed. Thus, you will be ready to make a start of a fresh chapter in your life with your partner in Australia.
