Applying for an Australian Partner Visa is a significant step for couples who wish to build their future together in Australia. This visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
However, getting the visa approved requires submitting the right documents to prove the authenticity of your relationship and meet the legal requirements. Many applicants face delays or refusals due to missing or incorrect paperwork. To avoid such issues, it is important to prepare and submit all necessary documents correctly.
Required Documents for Australian Partner Visa
In this blog, we will cover the key documents required for an Australian Partner Visa application to make the process easier for you.
1. Identity Documents
The first step in applying for an Australian Partner Visa is providing identity documents. These include:
- A valid passport for the applicant and sponsor
- A birth certificate or any official document showing date of birth
- National identity card (if applicable)
- A driver’s license or any government-issued ID
Make sure that all documents are clear, certified, and up to date.
2. Relationship Evidence
One of the most important parts of the Australian Partner Visa application is proving that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. The Department of Home Affairs will assess various aspects of your relationship, so you must provide strong evidence. The required documents include:
- Marriage certificate (for married couples)
- Proof of de facto relationship (for unmarried couples, showing at least 12 months of living together)
- Joint lease agreements, utility bills, or property ownership documents
- Bank statements showing shared financial responsibilities
- Social media interactions, messages, emails, or letters
- Photos together at different occasions and locations
- Travel history showing trips taken together
- Statutory declarations from family and friends confirming your relationship
Providing a variety of documents will strengthen your case and increase your chances of getting the Australian Partner Visa.
3. Sponsorship Documents
The sponsor (Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen) must also submit supporting documents. These include:
- Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency
- Passport copy
- Evidence of previous relationships (if applicable, such as divorce certificates)
- A signed sponsorship form (Form 40SP)
- Police clearance certificate to show good character
4. Character and Police Clearance Certificates
To get an Australian Partner Visa, both the applicant and the sponsor must meet character requirements. You need to submit:
- Police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for at least 12 months in the last 10 years
- A statutory declaration explaining any criminal records (if applicable)
- Form 80 (Personal particulars for character assessment)
Make sure to apply for these documents early, as obtaining police clearances can take time.
5. Health and Medical Examination
The Australian government requires Australian Partner Visa applicants to meet health requirements. You must:
- Undergo a medical examination by an approved panel doctor
- Provide a chest X-ray (if required)
- Complete any additional medical tests requested by the immigration authorities
A health assessment helps ensure that applicants do not have serious health conditions that may burden Australia’s healthcare system.
6. Financial Proof
Showing financial stability is another crucial part of an Australian Partner Visa application. You may need to submit:
- Bank statements demonstrating shared expenses
- Payslips and employment contracts
- Proof of joint investments, loans, or insurance policies
These documents help prove that you and your partner support each other financially and are in a committed relationship.
7. Form Submission and Additional Information
When applying for an Australian Partner Visa, you must submit:
- Form 47SP (Visa application for the partner)
- Form 40SP (Sponsor’s form)
- Proof of the visa application fee payment
Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances, so it is always best to check the latest requirements on the official website of the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for an Australian Partner Visa can seem overwhelming, but having the right documents makes the process much smoother. Ensure that you provide identity documents, strong relationship evidence, sponsorship documents, police clearances, health assessments, and financial proof.
Proper preparation will increase your chances of success and help you start your new life in Australia with your partner. If you are unsure about any requirements, consider seeking professional advice to avoid delays or refusals. Good luck with your Australian Partner Visa application!
