Proposed partner visa changes – new two-step process

Partner visas are subject to legislative changes by the Australian government, and this year it is expected that certain proposed changes will be made law. These changes would affect all married and de facto relationships where a foreign national with an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident partner wishes to apply for a Partner visa.

Whilst the Australian government fully supports its sponsored family visa programme, it likewise proposes to improve the programme’s integrity by imposing a new application process endorsing certain obligations beyond the current criteria.

The new two-step process for application would be a major modification to the present scheme for Sponsor and Partner visa applicants.

How will the new 2-step process work?

• Sponsorship will be assessed separately and prior to any Partner visa application.
• A Sponsor will need to have his/her application approved before any Partner visa application may be lodged.
• A Sponsor will be obliged to share relevant personal information between all parties involved in the process of applying for a Partner visa.
• A Sponsor may be subject to sanctions if they do not uphold necessary legal obligations upon approval of their sponsorship application.
• A sponsorship application will be enabled to be refused, or an approved sponsorship cancelled, where there is deemed serious offence or inappropriate use of the sponsored family visa programme.

How do you move forward?

Start preparing today – well in advance of implementation of the proposed Partner visa changes – and seek help from experts.

Great Migration Strategies has, for many years, helped people in relationships navigate the Australian sponsored family visa programme. We know the ins and outs of the programme and we can deal with the particulars of the Sponsor and the Partner visa applications, so that you can focus on your relationship.

How can Great Migration Strategies help?

Talk to our Great Migration Strategies Team today to see how we can assist you with Partner visas. Contact us on (0412) 388 830, or by visiting the Contact Us page on our website.