All You Need to Know About Australian De Facto Visas

If you’re considering moving to Australia to start a new life or join a loved one, one thing to know is that securing the correct visa is a must. For those in committed, long-term relationships, a de facto visa may be the best option.

A de facto visa Australia is a type of partner visa that allows unmarried couples to enter and stay in Australia for an extended period. This visa is valid for two years and can be renewed if the couple can prove that they are still in a genuine and continuing relationship.

To be eligible for a de facto visa, the partners must be in a committed, exclusive relationship for at least 12 months before the application. They must provide evidence to prove the authenticity of their relationship, such as shared finances, living arrangements, and future plans.

It’s crucial to note that not all de facto relationships are the same, and there is no perfect formula for being seen as a genuine couple. Therefore, it’s essential to have solid evidence of your relationship, such as shared leases, joint bank accounts, and even social media interactions.

If you’re planning to apply for a de facto visa, here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility

To be eligible for a de facto visa, you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, you must prove that you are in a genuine relationship with your partner. Secondly, you must meet the health and character criteria set by the Australian government. Thirdly, you must be able to show that you can support yourself financially while living in Australia.

Application Process

The de facto visa application process can be quite complicated and time-consuming. The first step is to gather all the necessary documents, including personal identification, relationship evidence, and medical and character certificates. You should also pay close attention to the deadline for submitting your application to avoid disappointment.

After submitting your application, you may be invited for an interview with the authorities to verify the authenticity of your relationship. Once your application is approved, you will receive your visa, which allows you to live and work in Australia.

Cost

Applying for a de facto visa is not cheap. You will need to pay an application fee, which can range from AUD 7, 715 to AUD 12, 195. In addition, you may need to pay for medical and character certificates and other related expenses.

Benefits of De Facto Visa

The de facto visa offers various benefits to holders. Firstly, it allows you to live and work in Australia for an extended period. Secondly, it enables you to study in Australia. Thirdly, you can travel in and out of Australia as many times as you want during the validity period of your visa.

Challenges of De Facto Visa

While the de facto visa provides many benefits, it also has its challenges. Firstly, you must renew your visa after every two years, provided that you can prove that your relationship is still strong. Secondly, you may not be eligible for certain public benefits such as healthcare and social security.

A de facto visa Australia is an excellent visa option for unmarried couples looking to move and stay in the country for the long term. However, it’s essential to provide strong evidence of your relationship and meet all the eligibility criteria. Furthermore, be prepared to pay a hefty application fee and fulfill all the visa renewal requirements to enjoy the benefits of this visa.