Australia is a country where everyone wants to live for a better future. Someone wants to join with their spouse or some with their partner when you plan to go there, you must understand the distinctions between the partner visa subclass, their eligibility criteria, and post-visa conditions. In this blog, we’ll guide you to navigate the process effectively.   Types of Partner Visas in Australia Australia offers several partner visa subclasses designed for individuals who are married or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident or an eligible New Zealand citizen.   Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820): The Subclass 820 is a temporary visa, serving as a pathway to the permanent Subclass 801 visa. Applicants must be in Australia at the time of application and visa grant. Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801): This is granted after meeting specific conditions following the Subclass 820 visa. Allows the holder to stay permanently in Australia. Provisional Partner Visa (Subclass 309): The Subclass 309 is the temporary counterpart of the permanent Subclass 100 visa. Applicants must be outside Australia when applying for and when granted the Subclass 309 visa.   Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100): Granted after fulfilling the conditions of Subclass 309. Enables the applicant to live permanently in Australia.   Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): Designed for fiancés of Australian citizens or residents. Allows the holder to enter Australia, marry their sponsor, and then apply for a partner visa.   De Facto Partner Visas: What is De Facto Partner/Relationship? A de facto relationship refers to a genuine and committed relationship between two people who are not legally married but live together as a couple. De facto relationships can apply under subclasses such as 820/801 (onshore) or 309/100 (offshore), depending on whether the applicant is in Australia or abroad. De facto partners can apply under Subclass 820/801 (onshore) or Subclass 309/100 (offshore) based on their circumstances. Requires proof of a genuine and continuing relationship and typically 12 months of cohabitation unless exempt. Evidence to demonstrate a de facto relationship may include: Joint financial commitments such as shared bank accounts, loans, or utility bills. Evidence of cohabitation, including rental agreements or shared property ownership. Statements from friends and family confirming the relationship. Photos, travel documents, or other proof of shared social activities. Eligibility Criteria for Partner Visas To qualify for a partner visa, applicants and sponsors must meet specific requirements: Relationship Criteria: Married Applicants: Must provide evidence of a genuine and continuing marriage. The marriage must be recognized under Australian law. De Facto Relationships: Requires proof of living together for at least 12 months before applying (unless exempt). Evidence includes shared finances, cohabitation, and joint social activities. Exceptions to the 12-month cohabitation requirement may apply if you can demonstrate compelling circumstances, such as having a child together or registering the relationship under an Australian state or territory law. Sponsorship Requirements: The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Sponsors may have limitations if they have previously sponsored another partner or been sponsored themselves. Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must undergo health examinations to meet Australian health standards. Both applicants and sponsors may need to provide police clearance certificates. Financial and Evidence Requirements: Provide documentation such as joint bank statements, lease agreements, and photos to prove the authenticity of the relationship. Steps in the Application Process Prepare Documentation: Collect evidence to substantiate your relationship and meet health and character requirements. Submit Application: Lodge the application online via the Department of Home Affairs website. Temporary Visa Grant: After initial processing, a temporary visa (Subclass 820 or 309) is granted. Permanent Visa Eligibility: Applicants are eligible for the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100) approximately two years after the initial application.   Post-Visa Conditions Once granted, partner visas come with specific rights and responsibilities: Rights: Temporary Visa Holders: Can live, work, and study in Australia and access Medicare (Australia’s public health system). Permanent Visa Holders: Enjoy full residency rights, including the ability to apply for Australian citizenship. Obligations: Maintain a genuine relationship with the sponsor. Notify the Department of Home Affairs of any significant changes, such as relationship status or contact details. Monitoring Period: The Department may review the relationship during the provisional period to ensure it remains genuine. Conditions for Sponsors: Sponsors are obligated to provide financial support for the applicant during their initial stay. Limitations may apply if the sponsor has a criminal history or has sponsored multiple partners in the past.   Conclusion Navigating the partner visa process can seem daunting, but with thorough preparation and a clear understanding of requirements, it becomes manageable. Ensure that you meet all criteria, gather substantial evidence, and follow through with post-visa obligations to make your journey to Australia seamless.

Under the Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) introduces an exciting new pathway to facilitate talent exchange between Australia and India. Beginning in late 2024, this initiative aims to support temporary mobility for recent graduates and young professionals from India, promoting skill-sharing and professional growth. What is the MATES Visa? The MATES visa offers Indian nationals who meet specific criteria the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years. As part of a joint effort to enable skill and knowledge transfer, the MATES visa offers 3,000 annual spots for primary applicants, creating a valuable pathway for early-career professionals to gain international experience. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for the MATES visa, applicants must: Be aged 30 or younger at the time of application. Demonstrate proficient English skills (minimum overall IELTS score of 6, with no less than 5 in each section). Have graduated from an eligible institution within two years before applying. Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of these fields: Renewable Energy Mining Engineering Information Communications Technology (ICT) Artificial Intelligence (AI) Financial Technology (FinTech) Agricultural Technology (AgriTech) Key Features of the MATES Visa No Sponsorship Needed: Unlike many other Australian visas, the MATES visa does not require employer sponsorship, giving applicants greater flexibility. Work Rights and Duration: Holders of the MATES visa can stay in Australia for up to 24 months, with the freedom to work across various sectors. Family Inclusion: Dependents (spouses and children) can join the primary visa holder in Australia, with full work rights and without counting toward the annual visa cap. Future Opportunities: While the MATES visa can be used only once, visa holders may be eligible to apply for other temporary or permanent visas afterward. Benefits of the MATES Program The MATES program offers young professionals the chance to: Broaden their career prospects within a thriving Australian job market. Build meaningful networks in key industries. Gain invaluable international work experience that enhances their professional profile. How Think Higher Consultants Can Help At Think Higher Consultants, we are dedicated to guiding applicants through each step of the MATES visa process, providing tailored support including: Eligibility Assessment: Our team will assess your qualifications and experience to determine eligibility. Documentation Support: We ensure all essential documents, such as proof of graduation and English certification, are complete and ready. Application Preparation: Think Higher Consultants offers expert advice to help you accurately complete your application, minimizing the chance of delays. Post-Visa Support: From settlement advice to resources for your transition to Australia, we’re here to make your move as smooth as possible. Career Connections: Through our network, we can help connect you with job opportunities aligned with your field and qualifications. Why Choose Think Higher Consultants? With extensive experience in migration and visa services, Think Higher Consultants has the expertise to streamline your journey to Australia. Whether you have questions about eligibility or need step-by-step support, our team is here to assist. Conclusion The MATES visa presents an exceptional opportunity for young Indian professionals to experience Australia’s dynamic work culture while expanding their skillset. Let Think Higher Consultants be your trusted partner on this journey—reach out to us today to start your MATES application with confidence! Eligibility Criteria Summary: Primary applicants must: be outside Australia when the application is made; currently not and have not previously been in Australia as the holder of a Subclass 403 (Temporary Work (International Relations)) visa in the MATES stream;  hold a valid passport issued by the Republic of India; be between 18 and 30 (inclusive); register to take part in a visa pre-application process/ballot for that country; satisfy language requirements specified by a different legislative instrument; hold a qualification which relates to an industry and was conferred or awarded by a foreign educational institution specified by the Minister in a different legislative instrument Secondary applicants for a Sc 403 visa in the MATES stream can be in or outside Australia, but not in immigration clearance Primary and secondary applicants will need to meet PIC 4005 and if the applicant has turned 18 at the time of application PIC 4019 Primary visa holders in the MATES stream will be subject to the following conditions: condition 8303 – the visa holder must not become involved in activities disruptive to, or violence threatening harm to, the Australian community or a group within the Australian community; condition 8501 – the visa holder must maintain adequate health insurance; and condition 8516 – the visa holder must continue to be a person who satisfies the primary or secondary criteria, as the case requires, for the grant of the Subclass 403 MATES stream visa. Conditions 8301, 8502, 8503, 8525 and 8526 may be imposed. Eligible institutions: https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2024L01428/asmade/text MATES Visa Eligibility & English Language Criteria:

Exciting news from Australia as they just revealed their long-awaited Migration Strategy. This game-changing plan aims to revamp the skilled migration system, concentrating on skills crucial for boosting productivity. By using permanent migration, the goal is to build a cutting-edge and efficient workforce, paving the way for a prosperous future in Australia. The strategy covers major updates to different visa categories with a primary focus on the following points: New Visas Being Introduced Labor Market Testing Advertisement Update Quicker Pathway for Subclass 189 Applicants Focus on Global Talent Program Fast Tracking of Regional Migration Visa Applications Updates in Student Visa and Temporary Graduate Visas In this blog, we’ll take you through the major changes that are being made. In case you have any concerns, feel free to book an appointment with our Licensed Migration Agent.   Migration Program Planning Australia’s government plans to extend migration planning beyond 12 months to address critical skills shortages and enhance collaboration with states. The number of people moving to Australia from other countries is expected to decrease from 510,000 this year to 375,000 next year and 250,000 in 2024-25, stabilizing thereafter. International student numbers rose from 170,000 in 2018-19 to 270,000 in 2022-23 after COVID-related disruptions, as students returned to in-person classes after studying online and overseas during the pandemic. Temporary visa holders, including Skilled, Working Holiday, and COVID visa holders, increased to 180,000 in 2022-23 from 100,000 in 2018-19.   Skilled Temporary Visas Australia is introducing a revamped visa system to replace the TSS SC 482 with three tiers. The details of the new 3 visas based on tiers are following: Essential Skills Visa: For those earning under $70,000. Union oversight, sector-specific, capped, and involving the aged care and disability sectors. Specific details yet to be finalized. Core Skills Visa: For the $70,000 – $135,000 income range. Trades workers based on a revised ‘Skills in Demand List’ by Jobs and Skills Australia. Expected to be the primary visa pathway. Specialist Skills Visa: For those earning over $135,000 per year. No occupational list, 7-day processing turnaround. Excludes trades, machinery operators, drivers, and laborers. Limited to 3,000 places annually.   All visas will be granted for up to 4 years, allowing easier employer changes and clear paths to permanent residency. The ‘TSMIT’ will be indexed annually, and a public register of employer sponsors will facilitate smoother transitions between employers.   Labour Market Testing The Labor Market Testing (LMT) process is undergoing streamlining efforts, with the initial change being the elimination of the obligation to advertise on the Workforce Australia site. Additionally, the advertising period will extend from 4 to 6 months.   As Jobs and Skills Australia refines its data on skills shortages, the gradual phase-out of LMT is planned. An alternative, the Core Skilled Occupation List, will be introduced as a replacement.   Points Tests – Quicker Pathway for SC 189 Applicants A comprehensive review of the points test is underway. It is being considered to develop a new analysis-based points test to identify more effectively the independent migrants who will make the greatest contribution to the country. This pathway will have a faster pathway to permanent residence for graduates working in skilled jobs.   Temporary Graduate Visas & Student Visas Visa changes in Australia will now focus on international graduates with skills needed by local employers. Updates include shorter stays, restrictions on transitioning to student visas, and limiting stays for graduates without in-demand skills. Age eligibility drops from 50 to 35, and higher English language proficiency is required for temporary graduate visas.   The student visa program in Australia will undergo significant changes, with no cap on the number of places. Instead, migration levers will control numbers through higher English language requirements, limiting eligible course types to prioritize tertiary university programs, preventing course swapping, and increased funding for visa integrity and the ‘genuine student test.’   Regional Migration – Fast Tracking of Visa Applications The government recognizes the limited success of current regional migration strategies and plans to collaborate with states and territories for more targeted efforts. Regional visa applications will be expedited, and a review of regional migration settings and the Working Holiday Maker program will ensure alignment with development goals and prevent the exploitation of migrant workers.   Global Talent and Business Skills The Global Talent program will prioritize a select few migrants with significant contributions, and a potential ‘talent and innovation’ visa is under consideration. The Business Innovation and Investment Program, where over 80% of directors invest in small retail or hospitality, may undergo adjustments, while the Significant Investor Visa program is likely to continue with some modifications.   In summary, Australia’s recently revealed Migration Strategy ushers in a transformative phase for its workforce, marked by strategic changes in visa categories, labor market testing, and regional migration initiatives. The revamped skilled temporary visa system, coupled with a heightened focus on international graduates and adjustments to student visas, underscores a commitment to addressing evolving skill needs. As Australia positions itself for a prosperous future, individuals navigating these changes are encouraged to reach out with any concerns or inquiries. Our team, including our Licensed Migration Agent, stands ready to guide and assist in making this transition a seamless and promising experience for you. Feel free to contact us if you have any concerns.

The Australian government might replace  Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) with Genuine Student Test. The current requirement, known as the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, in which international students must submit a 300-word statement outlining their intent to study in Australia to establish their status as “genuine temporary entrants.” However, applications explicitly mentioning a wish to remain in Australia are automatically rejected. The policy has been criticized by the education sector, which says it has discouraged many high-value international students from applying to study in Australia. The new policy will focus on assessing the student’s academic and financial capacity to study in Australia, as well as their English language skills. It will not ask students about their migration plans. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said the change is in line with the government’s commitment to attracting and retaining the best and brightest international students. “We want to make sure that Australia is open to the best and brightest international students, regardless of their migration intentions,” she said. The aim is to create a nation where individuals possess equal rights and a mutual interest in national success. O’Neil emphasized the importance of retaining high-achieving students with the skills that Australia needs. Phil Honeywood, chief executive of the International Education Association of Australia, welcomed the change, saying it is a “welcome step” that will make it easier for high-value international students to study in Australia. “Too many genuine student applicants have been denied entry merely for being honest about what they hoped to achieve when they graduated with a world-class Australian qualification,” he said. Due to this policy shift, Labor’s immigration spokesperson, Dan Tehan, expressed his concerns about the housing supply issues and strain government services due to an influx of migrants. He highlighted that Labor’s proposed plans could result in around 1.5 million arrivals over five years, without a clear housing and resource management strategy in place. A recent review of the migration system released in March indicated that international students were not fully utilizing their potential in the job market after graduation due to the existing migration settings. This hampers Australia’s ability to retain top talent. Recent reports also revealed that the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency cautioned educational institutions about the risk of admitting large numbers of international students who might not be qualified for their chosen courses and may not have genuine intentions to study. Clare O’Neil is anticipated to unveil the Albanese government’s comprehensive migration strategy by the end of the year and has chosen not to comment on the recent changes at this time.