As of my last update in September 2021, there isn’t a specific visa category called an “Australian Marriage Visa.” However, there are several visa options that allow partners or spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live and work in Australia.
The most common partner/spouse visa options include:
- Partner (Provisional) Visa (subclass 309) and Partner (Migrant) Visa (subclass 100): These visas are for people who are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The provisional visa is granted first, and after a certain waiting period, the permanent visa can be applied for. You typically apply for both visas together.
- Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300): Also known as the “fiancé visa,” this option is for people who are engaged to be married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Once married within the validity period of the visa, you can then apply for a Partner visa.
- Spouse Visa (Temporary) (subclass 820) and Spouse Visa (Permanent) (subclass 801): If you’re already in Australia on a valid visa and are the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you can apply for these visas. The temporary visa is granted first, and after meeting certain requirements, you can apply for the permanent visa.
- New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (Temporary) Visa (subclass 461): This visa is for the partner or dependent family members of a New Zealand citizen who is a Special Category visa holder. It allows you to live, work, and study in Australia.
These visas all require evidence of a genuine and ongoing relationship, meet health and character requirements, and fulfill other criteria. It’s important to note that immigration policies can change, and there might have been updates or changes to the visa options or requirements since my last update.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on partner or spouse visas for Australia, I recommend visiting the official Australian immigration website or contacting the Australian Department of Home Affairs directly.