Application forms and applying

[Faye&Matt]

We're applying for our defacto visa on 23rd Nov as that is when we've been living together for one year in this country rather than all over the place in Australia before that. We want to start filling in the application forms now as we have a week off work together next week and they seem such a big job and to make sure we do them right, etc. Does anyone know if they have any plans to change the forms before the 23rd November? I know that for some things they give advance warning of any changes but wasn't sure if that related to forms as well. If anyone knows that please can you let me know!

Also, we are wanting to go to hand the forms in in person rather than posting them (and also make a trip to London out of it! :D) Has anyone done this? Do you need to make an appointment or anything to hand it in or do they have a front desk/reception that you give it to? Again, if anyone knows I'd be grateful if you could let me know!

Thanks!

[Bexta]

Hi Faye&Matt!
First of all, welcome to PIO!
I'm not really able to help you on your first question as I don't know about any changes to the forms. But I'd suggest just to keep checking immi.gov as they'll no doubt let you know on there first if any changes will be made by November.

In regards to handing in your application in person in London, I'm not sure if you're going to be able to do this. I think they prefer all offshore de facto visa applications to be sent in only. I've not heard of anyone else making an appointment to hand in their app in London and it being done. Most people send them in. Check out the Australia House website (www.uk.embassy.gov.au) in regards to where to post it and they also have a Contact Us button if you do want to ask them if you can make an appointment to drop it off. I think the offices are only open to the public from 9am-11am each day so I just don't want you guys going all the way to london to be dissapointed that they won't see you if you just rock up- so call them first!
=)

Good luck with your application. My OH and I sent ours off last month and after a little drama are hoping to hear some good news next week. Fingers crossed for you!
Bexta.

[Faye&Matt]

Hi Bexta, good luck with your visa application. Hope you hear the good news soon!

Thanks for the info about sending the forms in. I think I might give them a ring up to check. I'd rather go to London and hand it in as it is a good excuse to go as it will be the last time we'll get to go down there before moving to Aus so would be nice to have a little look around and maybe see a show! lol I don't think my boyfriend will want to go to London otherwise seeing as how we're supposed to be saving money for the visa and move!