Applying for a Partner Visa in Australia can be an emotional and complex journey. According to migration expert Inda Malinda Sari from Wonderland Consulting, 30–40% of Partner Visa applications are refused—often due to avoidable mistakes, missing documentation, or lack of preparation.
With over 10 years of experience as a registered migration agent (and a former migrant herself), Inda shares the 7 most common reasons why Partner Visas get refused, based on real cases she’s handled, and offers insights on how to avoid each one.
1. The Relationship Doesn’t Seem Genuine
One of the main reasons Partner Visas are denied is because the Department of Home Affairs is not convinced the relationship is genuine or ongoing. Common red flags include:
- No photos together
- No joint bank accounts
- No shared travel history
- No records of text messages or calls
- No visits from the sponsor to the applicant’s home country
Additionally, if you or your partner provide inconsistent information or can’t recall basic facts about the relationship, it casts doubt on your case. Many applicants assume love speaks for itself, but in immigration, you must prove your relationship with solid evidence.
How to avoid it: Submit extensive documentation: joint finances, lease agreements, conversations, photos, social media posts, travel tickets, and declarations from friends or family. The more consistent and verifiable your evidence is, the higher your chances of approval.
2. You Didn’t Respond to Immigration Requests
Some applicants mistakenly believe that once their application is lodged, their job is done. But that’s far from the truth. Immigration may request:
- Health examinations
- Additional documents
- Clarifications on specific aspects of your relationship
These requests are time-sensitive. Missing a deadline or not checking your ImmiAccount or email regularly can lead to automatic refusal.
How to avoid it: Stay alert. Regularly check your ImmiAccount and email, and respond promptly to all requests from immigration.
3. You Didn’t Pass the Interview
In some cases, both partners are asked to attend an interview, especially if there’s not enough evidence provided in the application. This interview is designed to test the authenticity of the relationship.
If either partner gives vague or contradictory answers about:
- Anniversary or birthday dates
- How you met or your first date
- Daily habits, interests, or family details
…immigration may conclude that the relationship is not real.
How to avoid it: Talk through your relationship timeline with your partner beforehand. If your relationship is genuine, recalling key events and facts should come naturally. But being mentally prepared helps calm nerves and ensures your answers are consistent.
4. You Provided False or Fraudulent Documents
This is a serious issue. Some applicants are tempted to include:
- Fake documents
- Altered dates
- Inaccurate personal details
Even one falsified document can result in a visa refusal and a 10-year ban from applying for any Australian visa. Immigration performs integrity checks on everything you submit.
How to avoid it: Always be truthful. If you’re unsure about how to explain something, work with a registered migration agent rather than risking your future by fabricating information.
5. You Didn’t Meet Health Requirements
All Partner Visa applicants must undergo a health examination through a panel of doctors approved by Immigration. This usually includes:
- Chest x-rays
- Basic medical assessments
If you skip the medical or fail to meet the standards, your visa may be refused. However, there are exceptions if you can demonstrate that you’ll be able to fund your own healthcare costs in Australia.
How to avoid it: Complete the health check as soon as it’s requested. If you have a pre-existing condition, speak to a migration professional about options to strengthen your case.
6. You Didn’t Meet Character Requirements
If either the applicant or the sponsor has a criminal record, the Department of Home Affairs will closely assess the situation. Failing to meet character standards can lead to automatic refusal.
How to avoid it: If you or your partner has a criminal history, consult with a registered migration agent immediately. Depending on the nature of the offense, it might still be possible to apply successfully, but only with careful planning and documentation.
7. You Are Affected by Section 48 Bar or Schedule 3 Criteria
If you previously overstayed your visa, had a visa cancelled or refused while in Australia, you may be affected by Section 48 Bar or Schedule 3. These regulations restrict your ability to apply for a new visa while onshore.
How to avoid it: You may need to apply for a waiver or show compelling circumstances. This is a complex legal area, so professional support is essential.
The Partner Visa process is not just emotional—it’s legally and logistically demanding. Small errors or missed steps can result in a refusal.