When Should You Register Your De Facto Relationship?
Timing is crucial in partner visa applications, particularly regarding relationship registration. There is an important distinction that many applicants misunderstand.
Understanding TOD vs TOA Requirements
For a partner visa, registration of relationship is a “Time of Decision” (TOD) requirement, while marriage and 12-month de facto are “Time of Application” (TOA) requirements.
This means if you’re applying based on a de facto relationship, you have flexibility around when the relationship registration certificate is issued. However, the 12-month cohabitation requirement must be satisfied at the time of application.
The Four Pillars Are Always Required
Regardless of the pathway used, the four pillars of a genuine relationship are always required. These pillars include:
- Financial aspects of the relationship
- – Nature of the household
- – Social aspects of the relationship
- – Nature of the commitment to each other
Using the s56 Request Period Effectively
The 28-day response window (and extensions) following a s56 request to gather additional evidence the Case Officer requires. This can be a valuable opportunity to strengthen your application with additional documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Relationship registration is assessed at Time of Decision (TOD)
- – Marriage and 12-month de facto requirement assessed at Time of Application (TOA)
- – The four pillars must be demonstrated regardless of pathway
- – Use the 28-day s56 response period strategically
Disclaimer: This is general advice only and may not apply to your specific circumstances. For personalised guidance on your visa application, please book a consultation with one of our registered migration agents.
Related Articles You May Find Useful
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- Bridging Visa A Processing Delays: What to Do When Your Application Is Stuck
- How to Request Urgent Bridging Visa B (BVB) Processing for Travel
Reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services
MARA Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2318017
This article is written and reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services, a MARA-registered migration agency based in Australia. As registered agents, we are bound by the Migration Agents Code of Conduct and required to provide accurate, up-to-date advice based on Australian migration legislation. Information is reviewed against the latest Department of Home Affairs policy.
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