Immigration Update: Longer Processing Time for Offshore Partner (sc309/100) Visa - What to do?
The Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) has recently released new updates on processing times for offshore partner (subclass 309/100) visas, and here's what you need to know:
| APPLICATION | TIMEFRAME |
|---|---|
| 25% of applications | 5 months |
| 50% of applications | 12 months (1 year) |
| 75% of applications | 37 months (around 3 years) |
| 90% of applications | 96 months (around 8 years) |
These changes have raised concerns and frustration amongst Partner visa applicants due to the significant increase in waiting periods, especially for Subclass 309 Partner (Provisional) Visa applicants. With processing times extending up to eight (8) years, it delays family reunification efforts and imposes undue hardships on couples hoping to live together in Australia.
How do I enter Australia with a Pending Offshore Partner (sc309) Visa?
Firstly, we recommend speaking with an immigration lawyer to figure out alternate pathways to reunite with your partner.
DoHA's recent extension of up to 8 years of processing time demands thoughtful consideration and may necessitate additional measures to tackle the challenges applicants might encounter. The good news is, we may see the Department granting longer visitor visas to maintain its commitment to family reunification while ensuring a fair and compassionate approach to the immigration process.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
If you have any questions or seeking further information about partner visas, our team of immigration experts is here to assist you and provide the guidance you need throughout the visa application process. At Agape Henry Crux, our Accredited Specialist(s) Immigration Lawyers and our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents are specialised in handling highly complex matters. You can book one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.