Plenty of young people ask us this:

“If we’re not legally married, can I still include my partner in a skilled migration application to Australia?”

The answer is yes — and with the right strategy, it’s absolutely achievable.

We recently helped Mr Lin successfully bring his girlfriend to Australia on a 189 visa, and here’s how it works:

01 What is De Facto, and what does the Department look for?

A De Facto relationship means you’re not legally married, but your relationship is genuine and operates like a married couple — living together and sharing a life financially and socially.

The Department of Home Affairs recognises this.
If you’ve lived together for at least 12 months, one partner can be the primary applicant and the other can be included as a secondary applicant.

The key is not a marriage certificate — it’s proving that your relationship is real and ongoing.

02 Financial ties: Joint account is NOT the only way

For Mr Lin, we structured financial evidence in three practical ways:

• Proof of cohabitation: Lease documents stamped by the property agent, followed by local authority verification, then translated by a NAATI-certified translator.
• Alternating utility records: Even if bills are under the landlord’s name, request monthly invoices showing each partner’s name alternately, with clear notes.
• Daily spending records: Export online shopping records (e.g. delivery platforms), ensuring real names are used and the delivery address is consistent.

03 Social evidence: Your photos need to tell a story

Your social proof should show continuity over time and include consistent third parties.

We advised Mr Lin to use photos with the same group of friends — hiking trips, concerts, gatherings — and later have those friends provide written statements that align with the photos.

Travel records (flight tickets, hotel bookings) are also strong supporting evidence.

04 Timeline & consistency: Build a clear evidence chain

All your documents should form one consistent story.

Your relationship timeline, lease documents, purchase records, photos, and witness statements must all align.
If a friend mentions an event, there should be photos or receipts to back it up.

The stronger your “evidence chain”, the better your chances.

Additional: De Facto document checklist (for reference)

• Financial: Joint loans or leases, shared debts, joint accounts, household bills
• Household: Evidence of shared living arrangements, mail addressed to both, shared responsibilities, children (if applicable)
• Social: At least two witnesses over 18 who know both of you, plus photos and travel evidence
• Commitment: Evidence of a committed relationship, maintaining contact during long distance, no prohibited relationships

You’ll also need to show at least 12 months of living together.
If you don’t meet this requirement, you may consider applying for a De Facto Certificate (available in several Australian states).

If you’re planning to migrate to Australia with your partner, don’t leave it to chance.

Reach out to us to check your eligibility — our team can help you plan the right pathway and get you closer to your new life in Australia.

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📅 Book a Consultation: https://www.riverwoodmigration.com/consultation-info‍

💼 Speak with a Migration Lawyer: enquiry@riverwoodmigration.com

‍💬 Chat with Johnny: https://linktr.ee/johnny_lawyer