Partner Visa Evidence Guide: Proving a Genuine Relationship

A Clear Guide to Submitting Strong Partner Visa Evidence in Australia

If you're applying for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 or 309/100), one of the most critical parts of your application is proving that your relationship is genuine and continuing. The Department of Home Affairs requires extensive evidence to ensure applicants aren’t entering relationships solely for migration purposes.

This guide outlines what kind of evidence you need to submit, how to organise it, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to refusals or delays.

Why Is Relationship Evidence So Important?

The Australian Government closely scrutinises partner visa applications to ensure they’re based on authentic, committed relationships. A weak or inconsistent evidence pack is one of the most common reasons for refusals.

By law, applicants must demonstrate that they share a genuine and continuing relationship under one of the following:
- Married
- De facto (typically living together for 12 months or more)
- Engaged (if applying under Subclass 300)

The Four Key Aspects of Relationship Evidence

The Department assesses four key aspects of your relationship. Your evidence should address each of the following:

1. Financial Aspects

  • Joint bank accounts
  • Shared bills (utilities, rent, insurance)
  • Tax returns or loan applications listing both partners
  • Receipts for joint purchases

2. Social Aspects

  • Photos of you together with friends/family
  • Invitations or travel records from shared events
  • Social media posts or messages
  • Statutory declarations from friends/family affirming the relationship

3. Nature of the Household

  • Lease agreements or home ownership documents
  • Shared responsibilities (e.g. household bills, chores)
  • Correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address

4. Nature of the Commitment

  • Statements of future plans together
  • Travel plans, engagement or wedding plans
  • Communication during time apart
  • Will/insurance listing the partner as beneficiary

Tips to Strengthen Your Evidence

✅ Provide a wide variety of evidence, not just photos

✅ Label each piece clearly and indicate which category it relates to

✅ Avoid submitting only recent documents — show the history of the relationship

✅ Be consistent — ensure your application form and supporting evidence align

✅ Include personal written statements from each partner

What Not to Do

❌ Don’t fake or exaggerate documents — this can lead to refusal or even a ban

❌ Don’t rely solely on social media or chat screenshots

❌ Don’t assume marriage alone is enough — evidence is still required

❌ Don’t ignore relationship gaps or long-distance periods — explain them honestly

Format and Submission Tips

  • Submit scanned copies of documents (clear and legible)
  • Use chronological order where possible
  • Group evidence into the four key categories
  • Add short captions or descriptions where needed

Need Expert Help?

We help couples:
- Build a compelling evidence portfolio
- Draft clear and credible personal statements
- Avoid the common mistakes that delay or derail applications

Book your free consultation today and get tailored guidance for your situation.

Disclaimer

DISCLAIMER: This guide is general in nature and not a substitute for professional migration advice. For detailed requirements, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent.