Australia Sets Waiting Period for Permanent Partner Visa

Australia has announced a new waiting period requirement for applicants seeking the permanent Partner visa (subclass 801), as per the Department of Home Affairs. This visa is intended for individuals in genuine relationships with Australian citizens or permanent residents who wish to reside permanently in Australia.

Applicants typically first receive a temporary Partner visa (subclass 820) and must wait two years from the date of their initial application before being considered for the permanent visa. This waiting period allows applicants to live and work in Australia while their permanent visa assessment is pending.

However, exceptions to the two-year rule exist. Applicants who were in a long-term relationship with their sponsor at the time of application, defined as living together for at least three years or two years with dependent children, may qualify for expedited assessment.

Additionally, applicants may be eligible for an earlier assessment if their partner has died or if they or their child have experienced family violence during the relationship.