I came to Australia 11 years ago from the US as a de facto and handled the visa process myself without any real trouble. My application was pretty straight forward - English speaking with a university degree, under 30, no criminal record, good job prospects, and financially secure. A friend that was 40 when he applied had some problems due to his age.

Only glitch I had was that my Dr missed one question on the medical form (did I have 20/20 vision) therefore my visa was held up until I could get them the results of an eye exam. So, review your documentation carefully before sending it in!

Be prepared to provide proof of your relationship and means of support after you arrive. We were asked for things like Christmas cards addressed to both of us, pictures from family events that we both attended, utility bills & bank accounts in both names, etc. We also had to provide statutory declarations from neighbours stating we had been living together and for how long, and from his parents stating they were supportive of the relationship and that I could live with them when I arrived.

Don't expect the process to be quick. There is a lot of waiting and it can be difficult speaking to officials about the status of your application.

Good Luck.

Post a Reply

00abuse

Choosing an expat health insurance provider is an important decision. Get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family.

Learn More Get a Quote

Hi there! I came to Australia on a spouse visa almost 2 years ago.

First thing you should do is go to the DIMIA website and download Booklet 1: Partner Migration.

http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/booklets/books1.htm

Print off a copy (if you can) and read it. Then go to the Immigration Rights & Advice Centre website and download the information sheet that's applicable to your situation:

http://www.iarc.asn.au/publications/index.html#3

i.e. "defacto spouse visa"

Between those two sites, you'll find all the information you'll need to apply for the visa. Defacto visas are very strict about the definition of "living together for 12 months"...just so you know.

We did the application ourselves. It was a LOT of paperwork, but otherwise fairly straightforward and easy to understand. I would say you only need a migration agent if you have out-of-the-ordinary circumstances. However, if you're uncomfortable doing it yourself, definitely get an agent to help you. It's your choice.

Cheers,

VickyM

Post a Reply

00abuse

Thank you both for your advice! It is extremely helpful to hear info from people who have been through this process.

Post a Reply

00abuse

Dear Vicky,

Thanks very much for the information. I have already found the booklets but the http://www.iarc.asn.au/publications/index.html#3
page is invaluable!

Thanks again.

Sophie

Post a Reply

00abuse

Hi,have nearly completed my visa through a firm called ian harrop and associates tel-01707643785 e-mail sue@ianharrop.co.uk .Whilst this isnt cheap it is worth every penny.If they can get me in ( a plain old butcher) then its money well spent.The service is second to none,they do all the paper work and even tell you what to write.Its a great feeling to know youve been accepted and in the region of perth.I wish you all the best, but you wont need luck if you go through these they wont lead you up the garden path if they have any concerns,they have a nearly 100% success rate ,let me know how you get on

Post a Reply

00abuse

Choosing an expat health insurance provider is an important decision. Get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family.

Vicky! Thanks so much for this link

http://www.iarc.asn.au/publications/index.html#3

I am pretty familiar with the visa appilication but am exhausting all possibilities in research. From that link and the form I needed I ran into this:

Attach a cover letter to the application form with
• your name;
• current address;
• reasons for applications; and
• list of documents attached to application. If you are waiting for any information to be included with the application say that it will be provided to the Department as soon as it is received.
Also offer to provide any further information required by the Department of Immigration.



That was so helpful! I reckon there may be more. Reading it now.

Post a Reply

00abuse

Thanks very for the information share with us...

Post a Reply

00abuse