Partner Visa Document Checklist
Navigating the complexities of obtaining an Australia partner visa (onshore subclass 820/801 or offshore subclass 309/100) can be daunting, especially given the high refusal rate. Evidence plays a vital role in the application process, as it substantiates the legitimacy of your relationship. This page serves as a comprehensive guide to the necessary documents needed for lodging your visa application. It's important to keep in mind that every situation is unique; therefore, you may need to provide additional evidence tailored to your specific circumstances. Whether it's proof of cohabitation, financial support, or shared responsibilities, thorough documentation can greatly enhance your chances of a successful application. Preparing meticulously will not only streamline the process but also help reinforce the genuine nature of your partnership to the authorities.
To successfully complete your application, please ensure you have the following documents ready for submission. First, a valid government-issued photo ID is essential to verify your identity. Additionally, proof of residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, will be necessary to confirm your address. If applicable, include your Social Security number or equivalent identification. Academic transcripts and any relevant certifications should also be attached to showcase your qualifications. Furthermore, if this application is for employment, a detailed resume outlining your work history and references may be required. It is crucial to review this list carefully to ensure you gather all necessary documents ahead of time, as incomplete submissions may delay the processing of your application. Being thorough and organized will enhance your chances of a smooth application experience.
Identity documents
Provide a birth certificate showing the names of both parents.
If you cannot provide this, provide the identification page for one of the following:
family book showing the names of both parents
identification document issued by the government
court-issued document that proves your identity
of a family census register.
the pages of your current passport showing your photo, personal details and issue and expiry dates
a national identity card, if you have one
proof of change of name, if applicable, such as:
a marriage or divorce certificate
change of name documents from an Australian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, or the relevant overseas authority
documents that show other names you have been known by.
Evidence of relationships
You need to provide evidence of:
your relationship with your partner
any former relationships
any dependants you have.
Your relationship with your partner
You need to provide evidence of your relationship with your partner. This evidence must show that:
you have a mutual commitment with your spouse of de facto partner to the exclusion of all others
your relationship is genuine and continuing
you live together or don't live permanently apart
you are not related by family.
Relationship history
Tell us in writing about:
how, when and where you first met
how the relationship developed
when you moved in together, got engaged or married
what you do together
time you spent apart
significant events in the relationship
your plans for the future.
Relationship documents
If you are married, provide your marriage certificate or other evidence that your marriage is valid in Australia.
If you are a de facto partner, you need to provide evidence of your de facto relationship.
Evidence of your de facto relationship
In addition to documents proving your relationship, show us you have been in your de facto relationship for at least 12 months before you applied for this visa.
If you haven't been with your de facto partner for 12 months, you can:
provide evidence you have registered your relationship with an Australian State/Territory births, deaths and marriages agency or
tell us in writing about any compelling and compassionate circumstances for us to grant the visa.
Supporting evidence of the relationship
Finances
Evidence you and your partner share financial matters. Evidence can include:
joint mortgage or lease documents
joint loan documents for major assets like homes, cars or major appliances
joint bank account statements
household bills in both names.
Your household
Evidence you and your partner share domestic matters. Evidence can include:
a statement about how you share housework
household bills in both names
mail or emails addressed to you both
documents that show joint responsibility for children
documents that prove your living arrangements.
Social matters
Evidence that others know about your relationship.
You must provide statements from 2 witnesses who:
are 18 years old or older
know you and your spouse or de facto partner
know about your relationship.
Statements from witnesses can be done by completing Form 888 – Supporting statement in relation to a Partner or Prospective Marriage visa application (241KB PDF).
If the witness is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, provide evidence of this such as a passport or birth certificate.
Evidence can also include:
joint invitations or evidence you go out together
proof you have friends in common
proof you have told government, public or commercial bodies about your relationship
proof you do joint sporting, cultural or social activities together
proof you travel together.
Commitment
Evidence you are committed to a long-term relationship with each other. Evidence must show that you:
have knowledge of each other’s background, family situation or other personal details
have combined your personal matters
stay in touch when apart
are not related by family.
You can also provide the terms of your wills as evidence.
Former relationships
If you have previously been married, widowed, divorced or permanently separated, provide divorce documents, death certificates, separation documents or statutory declarations.
Prepare your documents
Translate
Have all documents translated into English.
Provide original and translated documents in your application.
Translators in Australia must be accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters.
Translators outside Australia do not have to be accredited. On each translation, they must include their:
full name
address and telephone number
qualifications and experience in the language they are translating.
These details must be in English.
Scan or photograph
Scan or photograph all documents (English and non-English) in colour.
The scans and photos must be clear enough to read.
If a document is more than one page, save it all as one file.
You do not need to have any documents certified.