Opinion Sort - Future migration and marriage Aussie & Tu

[Lewis]

Hi, I am an Australian woman and am currently living in Turkey with my Turkish boyfriend. First we are applying for just a tourist visa for him for 3 months (dec-feb), then (if we get that) when we return we plan to marry here, then later return to australian again on another tourist visa (dec - feb 08/09) and marry there. Then hopefully eventually live in Australia. That is our plan so far but we were wondering if anyone has any advice, hints or tips that they would like to share....any advice would be very much appreciated especially anyone with any personal experiences in a situation like this.

[Vicki]

Hi Lewis,

Perhaps as a starting point you could look at the information on www.immi.gov.au, the Department of Immigration's website and search for partner visas.

Basically, you may sponsor your partner for a spouse visa if you are married to him, a de facto (spouse) visa if you can demonstrate 12 months cohabitation, or a prospective marriage (fiance) if you plan to marry in Australia.

The key to all partner visas is the evidence of relationship. You need to submit as much documentation as you can to show that your relationship is genuine and ongoing.

In regard to your plans for marriage, you say that you wish to marry in Turkey and then marry in Australia. Is that due to religious considerations? Where you marry and how you marry is relevant to the type of visa you can apply for.

Hope this helps,

Kind regards,

Vicki