To register a partnership, both parties need to provide proof of their relationship, such as a joint lease, a shared bank account, or personal correspondence. Additionally, each state may have its own specific legal requirements and procedures. Let NOVA GLOBAL VISA guide you through the necessary steps to ensure a successful visa application.
REGISTERING A RELATIONSHIP FOR A PARTNER VISA
Requirements for applying for a de facto partner visa
To apply for a partner visa based on a de facto relationship, you usually need to prove that you and your partner have been living together for 12 months. This 12-month cohabitation requirement also applies when including a spouse or partner in the following visa types:
- Permanent Residency Visa
- Business Skills (Provisional) Visa
- Student Visa
- Partner Visa
- General Skilled Migration Visa
However, you are exempt from the 12-month requirement if you register your relationship in an Australian state or territory. You will need to prove that you live together, but not necessarily for 12 months.
Requirements for Legal Recognition
- Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
- You cannot be in a relationship with someone else, particularly not in a marriage, another de facto relationship, or a registered relationship.
- You cannot be related by blood.
- Both same-sex and opposite-sex couples can register their relationship.
Registering Relationships According to State Law
New South Wales (NSW)
Register your relationship under Section 4 of the Relationships Register Act 2010. NSW residents can register through the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. At least one partner must reside in NSW. You will receive a certificate 28 days after registering the relationship.
Victoria
Register your relationship under Section 10(3)(a) of the Relationships Act 2008. Relationships are registered through the Victoria Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. People in a family relationship can register if one of them resides in Victoria, both are not married or in another registered relationship, and neither is in another relationship that could be registered.
Queensland (QLD)
Register a Civil Partnership under Section 5 of the Civil Partnerships Act 2011. At least one partner must have lived in Queensland for at least 6 months, and you must provide proof of this. You can submit your application by mail, and the processing time for relationship registration is 10 days. The cost of the registration certificate is $43.50.
Tasmania
You can apply by mail or in person with the Tasmania Department of Justice. You will receive a registration certificate after 28 days. Both partners must be residents of Tasmania. The registration fee is $179.08.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Register a Civil Partnership under Section 6 of the Civil Partnerships Act 2008. Civil partnership registration can be done through Access Canberra. At least one partner must live in the ACT. Two forms of proof of residency must be provided. You can submit your application in person or by mail. However, if you submit by mail, at least one person must go to the post office to present identification. There is no fee for civil partnership registration.
Western Australia (WA)
If you are a WA resident, you can register a de facto relationship, but it is not recognized for immigration purposes.
South Australia (SA)
Relationship registration is now available.
Northern Territory (NT)
Relationship registration is not available.
Registering a partnership not only legally acknowledges your relationship but also opens doors to significant legal and social benefits. This brings peace of mind to both parties and provides a solid foundation for building a life together. Let NOVA GLOBAL VISA be your trusted partner on the journey ahead.