Spouse/Partner

How can I live permanently in Australia with my spouse?

If you are in a genuine married or de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, and wish to live permanently in Australia with your partner, you will need to obtain a Spouse Visa. Depending on whether you apply overseas or in Australia, your partner must sponsor or nominate you.

What are the visa requirements for migration as a spouse?

You may apply for a Spouse visa if you:

• are legally married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen;

• are in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen and you have been in this relationship for at least 12 months immediately prior to applying for the visa;

• are able to be sponsored or nominated by your partner;

• are in a relationship that is genuine and continuing and are able to provide evidence of this;

• have a mutual commitment to a shared life as husband and wife;

• live together, or do not live separately and apart on a permanent basis;

• and your partner have both turned 18 years of age (unless special circumstances apply);

• have no limitations on making an application if applying in Australia.

Complete details of the requirements are contained in the Migration Booklet 1 Partner Migration.

See also:
Fact Sheet 35 - One-Year Relationship Requirement

How do I apply for a Spouse visa?

Migration Booklet 1 Partner Migration contains information on applying for a Spouse visa. It includes the application forms, sponsorship information, lists the basic requirements that must be met and provides a checklist of supporting documents. The booklet is designed so that you can understand the process of applying for a Spouse visa, and complete the application form with minimal, if any, help.

You are able to purchase this booklet:

• online:

• in Australia: by telephoning the general inquiry number 131 881; or

• overseas: by contacting your nearest Australian diplomatic office.

To apply for a Spouse visa you must complete and sign Application Form 47SP Application for migration to Australia by a partner, (PDF File) and answer all questions honestly and completely, in English. When you lodge your application you must ensure that your application is complete, that is:

• the application form is signed and every question is answered;

• the visa application charge has been paid. See: Immigration Costs - Information

• supporting documents are attached. It is in your interest to support your application with as much information as possible at the time you apply. A decision may be made on the information you provide at time of application.

Completed applications can be lodged at the nearest Australian diplomatic office overseas, either in person, by a representative or sent by mail. If an application is by sent mail, you need to include a self-addressed, pre-paid envelope for the secure return of your passport. In Australia, you may mail your application to the nearest regional office of the Department or phone the general enquiry number 131881 to make an appointment.

See:
Australian Migration Offices

How is my application for a Spouse visa processed?

Applications for a Spouse visa go through a two-stage process. The process involves applying for a temporary visa and a permanent visa. At the first stage the temporary visa application will be considered. The second stage, two years after making the application, involves consideration of the permanent visa application.

What do I do if my relationship ends before my permanent visa is granted?

If the relationship ends while you have a temporary visa, you must inform the Department immediately. You may still be eligible for a permanent visa, without having to fulfil the normal two-year waiting period.

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