How Can a Student Visa Holder in Australia Include Their Partner on Dependent Status?

A student visa holder in Australia has the option to include a partner as a dependent, either by including them on the initial application or applying for their visa post-arrival. This article explores the process and eligibility criteria for including spouses, de-facto partners, and children on dependent visas.

Eligibility for Dependent Visas

Spouses, partners, and unmarried children under the age of 18 are eligible to apply for dependent visas. These dependents must be included on the student visa application if the primary applicant has a valid and approved student visa. Alternatively, a student visa holder can apply for their partner/dependent's visa once they have started their course in Australia, allowing the partner to join them.

Key Resources and Information Sources

For comprehensive and accurate information, students can refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website. Specifically, the Individuals and Travellers section is dedicated to providing detailed information on visa applications, including common student visa requirements.

Students should carefully review the information provided to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and follow the correct procedures for inclusion. Quora and other general online forums are not reliable sources of official government information; the Department of Home Affairs' official website is the best resource for this purpose.

Dependent Spouses and De-facto Partners

A de-facto partner can include a spouse, girlfriend, boyfriend, or any other individual that shares an intimate and committed relationship. To be considered a de-facto partner, the following conditions must be met:

You and your partner live together as a family for at least 12 months. You share property and finances.

Some examples of shared property and finances include common bank accounts, shared living expenses, and rent. If the relationship is not officially recognized by marriage, but meets the de-facto criteria, the partner can be included as a de-facto spouse on the student visa application.

Application Process for De-facto Partners

For those who meet the de-facto partner criteria and wish to be included on the student visa application, the process involves providing evidence of the relationship. This evidence could include:

Shared bills and bank statements Shared living expenses and rent payments Certified copies of any shared documents

For individuals who have been living together for more than 12 months, the de-facto relationship is recognized, and the partner can be included as a spouse. However, for those who have not met these criteria, bringing the partner to Australia for a short-term visit may be the better option. A tourist visa for six months may be granted, allowing the partner to join the student visa holder temporarily.

Seeking Professional Advice

For detailed and personalized advice regarding student visas and dependent visas, individuals can consult with immigration experts. For professional assistance, contact Svetlana Lane at Fees may apply for this service.

For those who are unsure about the legitimacy of their relationship or need further guidance, contacting the Australian High Commission or Embassy in your country can provide additional support and clarity.

For more information, visit the official Government of Australia website or seek professional advice to navigate the complexities of the student visa and dependent visa application processes.