Proving Your Love: Essential Evidence for a Successful Partner Visa Application

The "Four Pillars" of Relationship Evidence

When assessing your partner visa application, case officers look for evidence across four distinct categories. You need to provide strong documentation for each pillar.

1. Financial Aspects of the Relationship

You must prove that you share financial responsibilities.

• Joint Bank Accounts: Statements showing regular usage by both parties for common expenses (rent, groceries).
• Joint Liabilities: Leases or mortgages with both names.
• Pooling of Resources: Evidence that you share income and expenses.

2. The Nature of the Household

How do you live together?

• Living Arrangements: A lease agreement or letter from a landlord showing you reside at the same address.
• division of Chores: A statement outlining who does the cooking, cleaning, and shopping.
• Correspondence: Mail addressed to both of you (jointly or individually) at the same address.

3. Social Context of the Relationship

Do others see you as a couple?

• Photos: A curated selection of photos with family and friends (not just selfies) over time.
• Joint Invitations: Wedding invites or event RSVPs addressed to both of you.
• Travel: Itineraries and flight tickets for holidays taken together.
• Form 888s: Statutory declarations from Australian citizens or PRs who can attest to your relationship.

4. The Nature of the Commitment

Are you committed to a shared future?

• Knowledge of Each Other: You should know each other's background, family, and medical history.
• Wills and Superannuation: Listing each other as beneficiaries.
• Communication: Logs of messages or calls if you have spent time apart.

The 12-Month Rule vs. Relationship Registration

For De Facto partners (unmarried couples), there is a critical requirement: you must usually show you have lived together for at least 12 months immediately before applying.

Struggling to meet the 12-month rule? Registering your relationship with a state government (e.g., Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in NSW, VIC, QLD) can be a game-changer.

⚠️ Critical Note: Even if you register your relationship, you still need to prove your relationship is genuine using the four pillars above. Registration waives the time requirement, not the genuine relationship requirement.

💡 LGBTQ+ Couples: If your relationship has been kept private due to safety concerns or legal restrictions in your home country, see our specialised LGBTQ+ Partner Visa Evidence Guide for alternative evidence strategies.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• "Sterile" Joint Accounts: Opening a joint account but never using it looks suspicious. Use it for daily expenses.
• Inconsistent Social Media: If you claim to be in a committed relationship but your Facebook status says "Single," case officers may question your credibility.
• Lack of Dates: Ensure your written statements (history of relationship) match the dates on your evidence documents perfectly.

How First Migration Can Help

Navigating the complexities of a partner visa can be stressful. One missing document or inconsistent date can lead to delays or refusal. At First Migration Service Centre, our registered migration agents specialize in preparing "decision-ready" applications that clearly tell your love story.

Ready to start your life together in Australia? We invite you to submit a free visa assessment so we can evaluate your specific situation and guide you on the best pathway forward.