Can I Sponsor Multiple Partners? Sponsorship Limitations and How to Overcome Them

Applying to sponsor your partner for a Partner visa is an exciting step in your relationship, but it may come with sponsorship limitations. If you have previously sponsored a partner or held a Partner Visa, you should be aware of these restrictions—especially if you hope to sponsor another partner in the future.

What is the Limitation for Sponsoring Multiple Partners on a Partner Visa?

The immigration law limits the number of partner sponsorships an individual can undertake:

You can only sponsor a partner twice in your lifetime.
If you sponsored a former partner, you must wait 5 years from the lodgement date of that previous sponsorship before sponsoring another partner.
If you obtained permanent residency (PR) through a partner visa, you cannot sponsor any new partner until 5 years after your initial partner visa lodgement date.

There are exceptions to apply for waivers; we recommend speaking with an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law for tailored guidance.

What Situations May Trigger Sponsorship Limitations on Multiple Sponsorships?

Below are common scenarios that might restrict your ability to sponsor a partner:

Sponsored a previous partner who received a visa grant, but did not travel to Australia; the sponsorship still counts.
Visa granted but later cancelled due to non-compliance or other reasons.
Sponsored a partner involved in family violence or other circumstances that led to visa cancellation.
Sponsoring a partner who was involved in unlawful activities or had criminal issues.

Can This Sponsorship Limitation Be Waived?

Yes, the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) can grant a waiver of sponsorship restrictions if compelling or compassionate circumstances are demonstrated. However, these waivers are typically challenging to address without any professional guidance and assistance.

How to Deal with Sponsorship Restrictions?

Engage an experienced immigration lawyer, such as Jason Ling (Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law) can be beneficial to your partner visa matter. The lawyers can give tailored advice and assistance and identify any strong, compelling reasons specific to your circumstances.
Understand your sponsorship history and allow sufficient time before attempting to sponsor a new partner to avoid restrictions.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Assist

If you have reached your maximum sponsorships or are affected by limitations, don’t lose hope. With the proper legal assistance, you may still have options to sponsor your current or new partner. Speak with Jason Ling or Angela De Silva, our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, as they specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule an appointment to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English, Mandarin and Cantonese. We can also help you arrange an interpreter if this isn't your language.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.

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