What to Do When Your Partner Visa Is Refused

Common Reasons for Partner Visa Refusal

The most common reasons are: the Department was not satisfied the relationship is genuine, insufficient evidence of cohabitation or shared life, concerns about the sponsor's history (prior sponsorships, character issues), health or character concerns about the applicant, and procedural issues such as not responding to requests for information within the required timeframe. An experienced agent identifies the specific weakness and builds a strategy to address it — either at AAT review or through reapplication.

AAT Review for Partner Visa Refusals

The AAT conducts a fresh merits review — it is not just checking whether the Department made a legal error. You can submit new evidence, new statements, and address the specific concerns raised in the refusal. Partner visa AAT reviews have relatively reasonable success rates when the relationship is genuine but the original application was poorly presented. The key is bringing substantially better evidence and addressing the refusal reasons specifically. An agent experienced in partner visa reviews knows what the tribunal expects.

Reapplication After Refusal

In some cases, a fresh application is more appropriate than AAT review. This is particularly true if the refusal was based on missing evidence you can now provide, or if your circumstances have changed — you have since married, had a child together, accumulated more shared financial history, or moved in together. A reapplication incurs the full government charge again (approximately $8,850), so the decision must be strategic. Your agent assesses whether new evidence is strong enough to justify the cost.

Strict Time Limits

AAT review deadlines are typically 21 days if you are in Australia and 28 days if overseas. These are strict and non-negotiable. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to review. Contact an agent within days of receiving your refusal notice — not weeks. Through Migratio, you can get matched with partner visa refusal specialists within 24 hours.

What New Evidence Makes a Difference

The evidence that makes the biggest difference at AAT review is evidence that directly addresses the refusal reasons. If the Department was not satisfied the relationship was genuine, stronger statutory declarations, additional third-party statements, more comprehensive financial evidence, and updated social evidence can all help. If the refusal was procedural, ensuring all requested information is now provided may resolve the issue. An agent helps you identify exactly what new evidence will move the needle.

Get Specialist Help Immediately

If your partner visa has been refused, time is critical. Describe your situation through Migratio and get matched with 3 agents experienced in partner visa refusals and AAT reviews. Free, no obligation.

How long do I have to appeal?

Typically 21 days if in Australia, 28 days if overseas. Contact an agent immediately — do not wait.

Will a refusal affect future applications?

A refusal is recorded on your immigration record and must be disclosed. However, a successful AAT review or approved reapplication is not uncommon and does not prevent future visas.

How much does partner visa AAT review cost?

Agent fees range from $4,000 to $10,000. The AAT filing fee is approximately $3,000 (partially refundable if you win).

Can I stay in Australia during AAT review?

If you lodge within the deadline, you generally receive a bridging visa allowing you to remain.

Should I reapply or review?

It depends on the refusal reasons and available evidence. An agent assesses which path gives you the best chance and timeline.