Partner Visa Document Checklist & Relationship Evidence

Identity and personal documents

Applicants commonly prepare identity material such as birth records where available, passport biodata pages, national identity documents and evidence of any change of name. Previous marriage, divorce, widowhood or permanent separation documents may also be relevant where applicable.

Character documents

Police certificates may be required depending on where the applicant has lived and for how long. Australian and overseas police certificates, military records where relevant, and character-related forms should be checked carefully against current requirements before lodgement.

Relationship history

A written relationship history can help explain how the couple met, how the relationship developed, when they began living together, engagement or marriage, periods spent apart, significant events and future plans.

Four practical evidence areas

Financial aspects

• Joint bank accounts and shared financial commitments.
• Joint loans or major assets.
• Mortgage, lease or other accommodation documents.
• Household bills or other evidence showing shared financial responsibility.

Household aspects

• Living arrangements and shared domestic responsibilities.
• Mail or correspondence addressed to both partners.
• Evidence relating to shared responsibility for children where applicable.
• Documents showing how the household is organised.

Social aspects

• Evidence that family, friends and the wider community recognise the relationship.
• Joint invitations, shared activities and travel.
• Photographs and relationship milestones.
• Supporting statements from people who know the couple, where required.

Commitment

• Knowledge of each other's background and personal circumstances.
• Long-term plans and combined personal affairs.
• Evidence of staying in contact during periods apart.
• Other material demonstrating an ongoing mutual commitment.