Bringing your spouse to Australia: marriage visa guide

What Is an Australian Marriage Visa?

An Australian marriage visa, also called a spouse visa or partner visa, lets you bring your married partner or de facto partner to live permanently in Australia. This is one of the most common family migration pathways. You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to sponsor your spouse.

Two main visa options exist: one for married couples and one for de facto partners (people living together in a genuine relationship). Both lead to permanent residency if approved.

Who Can Sponsor and Be Sponsored

You can sponsor if you are:

• An Australian citizen
• An Australian permanent resident
• An eligible New Zealand citizen living in Australia

Your spouse can be sponsored if:

• You are legally married, or
• You have been in a genuine de facto relationship for at least two years

Same-sex and opposite-sex couples are both eligible.

Key Documentation You'll Need

Gathering the right paperwork is crucial. Prepare documents that prove:

• Your identity (passport, birth certificate)
• Your immigration status in Australia
• Your marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship
• Financial records showing you can support your spouse
• Police clearance certificates for your spouse
• Medical examination results
• Evidence of your relationship (photos, communication records, joint bills, statutory declarations)

Different documents apply depending on whether you've been married or in a de facto relationship.

The Application Process

The process typically involves several steps:

1. Check eligibility — Make sure both you and your spouse meet requirements

2. Gather documents — Collect all necessary proof of identity, relationship, and character

3. Submit your application — Apply through the official government portal

4. Pay the visa fee — Fees vary; confirm current amounts on the official website

5. Attend interviews or medical checks if requested

6. Wait for a decision — Processing times vary; check the government website for current timeframes

Financial Requirements

You must prove you can financially support your spouse. This usually means showing:

• Employment and income documents
• Bank statements
• Tax returns
• Evidence you're not receiving certain government benefits

If your income is borderline, you may need a guarantor (a third person who agrees to help support your spouse financially).

After Your Spouse Arrives

Once approved, your spouse receives a temporary visa that leads to permanent residency. During this period, they can:

• Work in any job
• Study
• Access Medicare (Australia's public health system)
• Sponsor family members themselves (after becoming permanent residents)

Your relationship will be monitored for the first two years to confirm it remains genuine.

Next Steps

Start by visiting Australia's official Department of Home Affairs website to download current application forms and check processing times. Consider consulting a migration agent if your situation is complex.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.