Partner Visa Priority Processing
Priority processing is limited. A request generally needs exceptional compelling or compassionate circumstances and clear supporting evidence.
How Partner Visa applications are prioritised
The WSMS source material explains that Partner Visa processing is subject to government priority arrangements. Onshore Partner Visa applications may receive higher priority than offshore Prospective Marriage and Partner Visa applications, while applications within a priority group are generally assessed according to the relevant processing arrangements.
When can priority processing be considered?
A priority request may be considered where there are special circumstances of a compassionate nature or compelling reasons for the application to be considered ahead of others. Because many Partner Visa cases naturally involve separation and hardship, the circumstances generally need to stand out from those experienced by the majority of applicants.
Situations that are generally not enough on their own
- Financial hardship or personal financial commitments.
- Plans to start a family or pregnancy.
- The pain and difficulty of separation.
- Employment considerations.
- Pre-arranged wedding plans.
- Health examinations, police certificates or passports approaching expiry.
Before making a request
- Make sure the visa application itself is supported by the required documents.
- Provide the claims and evidence supporting the priority request at the same time.
- Do not assume priority processing changes the legal criteria for visa grant.
- Avoid repeated requests that do not add new relevant information.
Need help applying this information to your own case?
Every Partner Visa matter turns on its own facts, documents and history.