For most applicants for an Australian Partner visa, the application is assessed in two stages: first for a temporary visa, and then, after a prescribed period (generally two years from the date of application), for the permanent visa.
In some cases, however, both stages may be decided at the same time. This outcome is commonly referred to as a “double grant”, where the temporary and permanent Partner visas are granted at or around the same time, allowing the applicant to obtain permanent residency without the usual two-year interval.
A “double grant” is not a separate visa pathway and is not granted automatically. It depends on whether the applicant satisfies the criteria for the permanent visa at the time of decision, based on the evidence provided.
What is a Partner visa ‘double grant’?
A Partner visa “double grant” occurs where the Department grants both stages of a Partner visa application together.
This may occur in relation to:
- Subclass 820 and 801 visas (onshore applications); or
- Subclass 309 and 100 visas (offshore applications).
Ordinarily, the permanent stage is assessed after the applicant becomes eligible for further assessment, which is generally two years from the date the Partner visa application was made.
Who is eligible for a Partner visa double grant?
The temporary and permanent visas may be granted at or around the same time where the applicant is assessed as meeting the criteria for the permanent visa at the time of decision.
In practice, this most commonly arises where the applicant and sponsor were in a long-term partner relationship at the time the application was made. A long-term relationship generally refers to a spouse or de facto relationship that has existed for:
- at least three years; or
- at least two years where there is a dependent child of the relationship (other than a stepchild).
This means that an applicant may be considered for a “double grant” where they can demonstrate that the relationship met the relevant duration requirement at the time of application and continues to meet the Partner visa criteria.
What evidence is required for a Partner visa double grant?
Meeting the relationship duration requirement alone is not sufficient. The applicant must also satisfy the decision-maker that the relationship is genuine and continuing, and that the parties have a mutual commitment to a shared life to the exclusion of all others.
Evidence may include:
- joint financial arrangements (such as bank accounts, loans, leases, or property ownership);
- shared liabilities and commitments (for example, bills, insurance policies, or superannuation nominations);
- evidence of cohabitation or the nature of the household;
- social aspects of the relationship (such as photographs, travel, and communication history);
- statements from family and friends;
- birth certificates for children of the relationship; and
- evidence of emotional support and future plans.
You can also refer to our full Partner visa document checklist.
The Department assesses the relationship holistically, having regard to all the circumstances of the relationship. A relationship that meets the relevant duration requirement may nevertheless not result in a double grant if the evidence is insufficient or inconsistent.
Common Mistakes and Why a Double Grant Is Not Guaranteed
A common issue is assuming that the Department will automatically identify a relationship as “long-term”. Applicants should clearly set out the relationship history and provide evidence covering the entire claimed period.
Other common issues include:
- relying solely on a marriage certificate;
- insufficient evidence, particularly from the earlier stages of the relationship;
- inconsistencies in dates across forms, statements, and supporting documents;
- unexplained periods of separation;
- limited joint documentation without explanation; and
- failing to notify the Department of changes in circumstances.
Even where the relationship meets the relevant duration threshold, a double grant is not guaranteed. The Department must still be satisfied that all legislative criteria for the permanent visa are met at the time of decision.
How can Hannan Tew Lawyers help?
A Partner visa “double grant” may be available where an applicant is already in a long-term relationship and can provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that all criteria for the permanent visa are met at the time of decision. The key considerations are the duration of the relationship, the quality and consistency of the evidence, and whether the relationship satisfies the statutory criteria.
At Hannan Tew, our team of dedicated lawyers have significant experience across a wide range of Partner visa applications, including complex matters involving long-term relationships, de facto partners, offshore applicants, refusals and visa history issues. If you require immigration assistance or have any other migration-related queries, please get in touch with our experienced team by email at [email protected] or by phone on +61 3 9016 0484. You can learn more about our services on our homepage. If you would like tailored advice, please contact us or book an initial consultation.
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