You might have heard the term “De facto relationship,” especially in the context of Australian visa applications. But what exactly does it mean? Today, let us dive into the concept of a De facto relationship and how it plays a crucial role in visa applications, particularly in Australia.
1. What is a De facto Relationship?
A De facto relationship refers to a couple living together in a genuine domestic partnership, similar to a marriage, but without being legally married. In Australia, this type of relationship is recognised by law, especially when applying for certain types of visas, such as the Partner Visa.
2. How is a De facto Relationship Defined?
To be considered in a De facto relationship, you typically need to meet the following criteria:
- Living Together: You and your partner must live together on a regular basis, not just casual dating or short-term cohabitation.
- Length of the Relationship: In most cases, you need to have been living together for at least 12 months.
- Financial Interdependence: You and your partner should show a level of financial dependence or sharing, such as having joint bank accounts or sharing household expenses.
- Social Recognition: Your relationship should be known to others, such as friends, family, or colleagues, who recognize you as a couple.
- Commitment to the Future: The relationship must be genuine and ongoing, with both partners intending to continue it long-term.
3. Benefits of a De facto Relationship
In Australia, being in a De facto relationship grants you similar legal rights as being married. For instance, if you are in a De facto relationship, you may be eligible to apply for a Partner Visa, which allows you to stay and live in Australia, regardless of whether you are legally married.
4. How to Prove a De facto Relationship?
When applying for a visa based on a De facto relationship, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim, such as:
- Joint bank accounts or shared financial obligations (bills, rent, etc.).
- Lease agreements or property ownership documents showing you live together.
- Photos or travel records proving your time spent together.
- Statutory declarations from friends or family confirming your relationship.
5. Conclusion
A De facto relationship is a significant aspect of Australian migration law, especially for couples who are not legally married. If you are thinking of applying for a Partner or De facto visa, it is important to understand what qualifies as a De facto relationship and how to prove it.
Hopefully, this post has helped clarify what a De facto relationship is and how it can benefit your visa application. Feel free to contact us if you are curious about Australian migration or need further advice!
