How Can You Ensure You Get a De Facto Visa in Australia?
If you're applying for a visa because your partner lives in Australia, there are no guarantees that you'll actually be approved, but note that you don't need to be legally married to this person to apply. Each person and relationship is evaluated on a case-by-case basis when you apply for a "de facto" visa. However, there are some things you can do to increase your chances of success for your de facto visa when you want to live in Australia with a partner. Note a few of those things here for when you're ready to apply for your visa.
1. Have supporting paperwork ready
When you're applying for a spouse visa, of course you'll need your marriage license from the country where you were wed; however, for a de facto visa, meaning that you're in a long-term, committed relationship with a person but not legally wed, you may need more paperwork to prove this relationship. This might include shared bank account statements, shared lease agreements, and the like. You may also be able to prove the relationship by showing shared bills or other obligations you hold jointly or even photographs that prove a long-term relationship. Have this paperwork ready when you're ready to apply for your visa so you can ensure it's included with your application.
2. Know the requirements
Remember that polygamous, underage, or same-sex marriages are not recognized in Australia; same-sex relationships are, however, recognized under the de facto visa laws. You must also be outside Australia when you apply for this visa. There are also time requirements for how long you must be in a relationship with someone when applying for a de facto relationship visa. This would vary if you have children together or not, and remember that time spent dating does not count toward the time spent in an actual unwed relationship.
3. Hire a migration agent
One of the best ways to improve your chances of getting your visa approved is to hire a migration agent. He or she will be able to ensure you choose the right visa subclass for your relationship and that your paperwork is what's needed to prove the relationship, without including unnecessary items. He or she can also advise you on the likelihood of approval, for example, if just one of you is under the age of eighteen or if your relationship has been shorter than the time normally required to prove such a relationship.
For more information about applying for this kind of visa, contact a company like Fisa Pty Ltd.