Becky_Valentine

Hi,

My boyfriend has left the British Navy and is joining the Australian Navy in June 2014.

Because we are not married I am not classed as a dependant.

Has anybody else been in this position where they are not married and partner joins the RAN?

How does the visa process work. Was there any complications/problems when applying for a visa. I am assuming I would apply for a 12 month work visa, then once my partner becomes an Australian Citizen, if we decide to get married then I will become one also.

Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Becky

Pollyana

Is he actually being sponsored by the Navy, or is he getting a visa, then joining the Navy afterwards?

Do you actually live together as a de facto couple, and if so for how long?

Becky_Valentine

He is being sponsored by the Navy.

We don't live together but been in a relationship for a year and a half.

Pollyana

Your best option then would probably be to get a 12 month working holiday visa, and live with him as soon as you arrive. You will need 12 months cohabitation in order for him to sponsor you as a de facto partner.
OR you get married while on the WHV then he can sponsor you as his wife, without needing the cohabitation.

That will get you a Spouse Visa which is temporary for the first two years, then becomes a permanent residence visa.

Becky_Valentine

Thank You for your help.