Hi all,
My partner and I are at a crossroads. He is currently sponsored at his job (advertising), and needs to now commence his permanent residency application. However, my partner and I are considering him to go on a partner visa instead (by registering our relationship - I'm an Australian citizen). What are the pros and cons for him to go on a partner visa instead of his work sponsorship visa? I also have a few questions, being:
1) What is the cost difference between a partner visa and working visa?
2) Everyone says you need legal advice (and fees) for a work sponsorship visa to ensure your application is perfect. Does a partner visa also require legal fees, or is it quite easy to complete?
3) What is the total processing time for PR through work sponsorship vs through partner visa?
4) I believe if my partner applies for PR through his work sponsorship, then he won't be able to swap jobs/companies. Is this true? Can he swap jobs/companies if he's on a partner visa?
5) I read that while the work sponsorship visa is being processed (bridging visa), my partner won't be able to leave the country even for a holiday unless he gets an exemption. Is this correct? Does this also apply on the partner visa?
6) My partner mentioned even if he does apply for permanent residency through his work sponsorship, he's still not guaranteed to obtain PR as they don't approve everyone. Is this the case for a partner visa too?
7) If we register our relationship, we become de facto. What are the legal/financial ramifications if one of us dies/gets ill/receives inheritance etc.
Thanks everyone, appreciate the help.