Hi guys, first post here!
Okay, so basically, I'm wondering what the best way to do this is.
I would like to apply for a partner visa subclass 309 (the one which ends with permanent residency after 2 years) so I can live in Australia with my girlfriend (she's the Aussie) and also be able to travel back and forward to the UK without having to get a different visa each and every time.
We are both currently in the UK, and she has until June 30th 2018 until her UK working holiday visa expires and has to go back to Australia, and obviously I want to go too!
Problem is, on the Aussie immigration website, it says the current processing time for the 309 temporary visa is 70% completed in 13 months, and 90% in 16 months. June is only 10 months away.
What's the best way to go about this? Is there a different visa I can get to go to Australia in June next year and apply for my Partner Visa? Am I even allowed to travel to Australia on a separate visa whilst my partner one is being processed?
Or is it better to go to Australia on a 6/12 months visitor visa, then apply for my partner visa whilst I'm there (if that's even allowed)?
Thank you so much in advance! This is a confusing and slightly stressful process, but obviously so, so worth it.