Partner and spouse

You are married, engaged or in a long-term relationship, and one of you lives in a different country. We help you show the relationship as it really is, with the evidence you already have.

On the map

F

F · Family line

Our fee, from

$1,900

Professional fee. Government charges are paid separately.

Handled by

Teresa Molina, principal adviser

What we do, and what you do

Every relationship has its own paper trail. We help you choose evidence that shows how you actually live, rather than building a file for the sake of it.

We draft your statements with you, organise your evidence by theme, and check that dates and addresses match across every document.

What you’ll usually need

A starting list, not the final one. Your document plan will be written for your case.

  • Passports and identity documents for both of you

  • Marriage or registration certificate, if you have one

  • Evidence of living together or keeping in touch

  • Joint finances, leases or bills, where you have them

  • Letters from friends or family who have seen your relationship first-hand

What can change the outcome

Time apart, a short relationship or different addresses are common and not automatically a problem, but they need explaining. The decision rests with the government and depends on your circumstances.

This page is general information, not advice about your case. We’ll tell you what applies to you at your first meeting.

Common questions about this pathway

Something else on your mind? Ask it in your first meeting, or send it to us any time.

We haven’t lived together yet. Can we still apply?

Possibly. Living together is only one way to show a relationship. We look at the evidence you do have before suggesting a route.

Do we need to be married?

Not for every route. Some accept engaged or long-term partners. We’ll explain the options that fit your relationship.

Five steps from first meeting to decision

The same process for every pathway: one adviser, a written plan, and no surprises on the bill.

WFSR12345
  1. Stop 1: First talkYou are here
  2. Stop 2: Written advice
  3. Stop 3: Document plan
  4. Stop 4: Lodge
  5. Stop 5: Decision
WFSR12345
  1. Stop 1: First talkYou are here
  2. Stop 2: Written advice
  3. Stop 3: Document plan
  4. Stop 4: Lodge
  5. Stop 5: Decision

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