Which visa route for an Engaged british born Indian couple that hasn't been able to live together

[Amv88]

Hi, 

I wanted some advice on which visa route to take for myself (British born UK Citizen) to get to Australia soon after Marriage (2nd October 2020) to my Fiance (Australian Citizen). We are both of Indian Heritage, which as a result as meant that we have been unable to live with one another before marriage. We have been together for 14 months of which we have traveled to each others countries and met up in other countries. We have our chat logs, numerous pictures, reciepts, plane tickets and other evidence to support our relationship. 

We have some main goals

• Move as soon as possible after marriage (Long distance relationships are hell :( ) 
• For me to start work as soon as possible (I need my sanity and i do love my job)
• For us to be able to travel and have couple holidays as well as me be able to visit my family in the UK without having to worry about getting back into Australia. And without jeopardizing my work situation

We are getting mixed messages around which visa route to take. We know our options are the following 

1. Prospective Marriage Visa (Fiance Visa)

• Our concern here is that we have a wedding date set with so many deposits paid that we are unable to change the date of marriage. What would happen if we apply for this visa and we get married before we are granted it? Also the visa duration time. 

2. Partner Visa (offshore)

• Although we have been reassured that other couples in our situation have been ok with this visa, the fact that we have not lived together or have financial responsibilities together worries us. We will do but at present this hasn't happened due to us living on the other side of the planet.

3. Visitor Visa for 3 months then apply for Partner Visa (Onshore) on arrival to Australia which will issue a bridging gap visa 

• This for us sounds like a gamble, we have read that sometimes bridging visas aren't granted. Also the duration from the bridging visa to the actual partner visa. We know that bridging visa A will not allow me to travel but as a newly married couple adventures will be the 1st thing on our list. We are aware the bridging visa B will be possible but with short periods away from Australia, and that I could have to wait for a 3 month period again on a visitor visa to be granted a bridging visa which will then stop me from working again. 

This is all so confusing for us and we would appreciate any advice or guidance that has either helped you and your partner in a similar situation or even any legal advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

 

[VERYSTORMY]

Basically, all three are workable options. Though I will say I don't think you understand number 3 works. 

However, in order to chose which option is right for you, I would consult a registered migration agent to advise which route is best. 

[paulhand]

As @VERYSTORMY says, you could probably make all three routes happen, but a consultation would improve your understanding of the various options available to you.