The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that major changes to introduce a sponsorship application to the Partner Visa process will no longer commence on 17 April 2019. The Migration Amendment (Family Violence and Other Measures) Act 2018 provides for a family sponsorship framework to be established, in which sponsors need to be approved through a Sponsorship application before any family visa application can be lodged.
Partner Visa process changes
While the Act commences on 17 April 2019, further legislation is required for partner sponsors and other family sponsors. The Department has advised that the family sponsorship framework will only be implemented in respect of Temporary Parent Visa sponsors on 17 April 2019. At this stage, there is no fixed date for the implementation of the sponsorship framework to the Partner Visa process or other Family Visas.
It is likely that once the legislative changes are implemented, the Partner Visa process will become more lengthy and particularly impact those wishing to lodge their application from within Australia. The new framework will also enable the Department to refuse or cancel a sponsorship application if the sponsor has a history of violence. Read more about the family sponsorship framework and its impact on Partner Visa applicants here.
Over 30 years of experience | How Interstaff Perth Migration Agents can help
We will continue to keep you updated on the Partner Visa process changes and how they may impact you. If you are interested in applying for a Partner Visa, you may wish to consider applying without delay. With changes to Partner Visas and Family Visas on the horizon, we encourage you to contact our migration agents for detailed advice on your particular circumstances. Simply contact our team of Registered Migration Agents on [email protected] or 08 9221 3388.
Source:
Interstaff’s Registered Migration Agents
Migration Amendment (Family Violence and Other Measures) Act 2018
Migration Institute of Australia
