Your best Guide to Australian Citizenship via Marriage
If you’ve found love with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, we can understand the desire to become an Aussie yourself. It’s shocking to find out that unlike many countries marriage doesn’t directly grant you citizenship, but marriage does open a pathway to permanent residency and eventually, becoming a proud Aussie citizen.
We are aware that navigating this journey can be confusing, so continue to read let us unpack the process for you while empowering you to navigate the path to becoming one with the sunburnt country effectively.
Types of Visa and what they mean.
The first step on your citizenship journey is securing the right visa.
Here are the two main categories:
Partner visa (subclass 309/100): This two-stage visa lets you live in Australia as the partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. You’ll initially apply for a temporary Partner visa (subclass 309), followed by a permanent Partner visa (subclass 100) after two years. To qualify, you must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship for at least 12 months, with evidence like joint finances, shared living arrangements, and supporting declarations from friends and family.
Prospective marriage visa (subclass 300): If you’re planning to marry your Australian partner in Australia, this temporary visa allows you to enter the country and tie the knot within nine months. Once married, you can apply for the Partner visa mentioned above and kickstart your path to permanent residency.
Eligibility Essentials
Beyond the chosen visa, specific requirements must be met. Pack these essentials for your Aussie love story:
Age: Both partners must be at least 18 years old (exceptions exist for minors with parental consent).
Character and Health: You’ll need to pass character and health checks, ensuring no criminal convictions or serious health issues pose a threat to Australia.
Financial Support: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any dependents in Australia without relying on government assistance is crucial.
English Language Proficiency: Basic English language skills are necessary for daily life and integration in Australia.
From Visa Holder to Aussie Citizen: The Time Warp
Once you’ve secured your resident visa, the clock starts ticking towards citizenship.
Here’s a general timeline:
Two Years as a Resident: After two years of lawful permanent residency in Australia, you become eligible to apply for citizenship.
Residency Requirements: During these two years, you must meet specific residency requirements, including spending at least 12 months physically present in Australia in each year.
Application & Fees: Prepare the citizenship application, gather supporting documents like tax returns and character references, and pay the necessary fees.
Citizenship Ceremony: If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony.
Officially you’ve become an Aussie yourself.
Embracing the Aussie Spirit
While visas and paperwork pave the way, true integration into Australian life goes beyond formalities. Here are some tips to embrace the Aussie spirit:
Live the Aussie Lifestyle: From enjoying a BBQ with mates to hitting the beach and exploring iconic spots like the Great Barrier Reef, immerse yourself in the laid-back, outdoorsy Aussie lifestyle.
Celebrate Aussie Traditions: Get involved in local events like Australia Day celebrations, learn about ANZAC Day’s significance, and understand the importance of respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
Support Local Businesses: Shop at local markets, patronize family-owned cafes, and explore the vibrant small towns – you’ll discover the heart and soul of Australia.
