Alborg

So I got my 189 visa grant letter through. Amazed as it only took 5 weeks from the date of submitting application. Definitely welcome news but I have mixed emotions. The next 12 months leaving the UK are going to be difficult as I'll be leaving my girlfriend of 5 years behind.

Bermudashorts

Well congratulations on the visa. But you do have a choice re the girlfriend so ...

Alborg

Choice as in partner on application? At the time I applied I assumed it was for wives or relatives so didn't even consider it and add her on my application. I've been open throughout the whole process and years before on my desire to emmigrate for a better lifestyle. She's already told me numerous times she wouldn't emmigrate to Australia. So it's crunch time.

Bermudashorts

Just choice. Australia or girlfriend.

It is indeed crunch time, but if you don't want same things then better to confront this now than later when married with kids etc and then things get really complicated.

I think it is ok to decide that Australia is more of a priority for you, it just shows that she is not the one.

But notions of a better life are just that, notions. Some find life better, some worse, some just the same. Not many that have actually moved talk about a "better lifestyle", even if very happy and settled. It is usually people that have never been here that talk about a better lifestyle.

spuddyo

Once you've sampled the delights of Aussie and KiWi girls she will be but a distant memory. Well done on the Visa, it's time to look forward now, not back.

peaceboy