Spouse visa - Need information?

Question

Hi,
I am a New Zealand citizen and got married with an Indian girl last month. Now I moved in Australia because NZ citizen can work and live in Australia. I want to bring my wife in Australia with me. What visa I need to apply for? What status will she get? Work visa or PR?
If you have any experience in this matter pl reply.
Or I should find a lawer?
Thanks

Answer 1

You might be able to push her through as an spouse of an New Zealand citizen (I am not too sure if you are an eligible New Zealand citizen though) (see first link).

If you are eligible you would be looking at a Spouse temporary visa (subclass 309 or a Spouse permanent visa (subclass 100) (see second link). She might be able to get a work permit on her own merits Indians are usually quite well educated.

I don't really recommend a tourist visa unless she intends on going out of the country when the time is up. I think the best way for you to go is a Spouse Permanent Visa.

Answer 2

Acyla is pretty much spot on target here.

As a NZ citizen you have right of abode here in Australia. You should apply for a Spouses visa for your wife in New Zealand where you are a citizen (and it's actually a lot easier to get than an Australian spousal visa for various reasons).

Once your wife has her spousal visa and NZ citizenship then she has the same rights that you do in terms of abode in Australia, and should be able to do so in exactly the same way as you already can.

Prior to her being granted citizenship, the situation is obviously a bit more tricky. Once her residency in NZ is assured, she should have no trouble visiting Australia as often as she wants anyway though.

It is always a good idea to run things past a lawyer, and an initial consultation should be free in any case. They will only generally charge after you both agree to have them act on your behalf.

Answer 3

Tourist visa might be the one applicable to your wife. Anyway, inquire at the Australian Embassy to know the exact requirement.