Marrying someone on a tourist visa...

[hc_andy]

If my gf arrives on a tourist visa and we intend to marry whilst she is here, can she apply for a bridging visa to remain in Australia while we submit and await the outcome of our spousal visa - or will she have to go home when her tourist visa expires.

I ask this because in the past...say 15 years ago I married my ex-wife (from the USA) this way, but not sure if the laws have changed since then. She came on a tourist visa, we got married during her first month here and then applied for a bridging and spousal visa which allowed her to remain in Australia.

Is this way still possible or do they have to return home now after their tourist visa expires and then we go through the normal process of submitting the spousal visa to bring them to Australia?

 

[curiousgirl]

Hey!
I am fron Ukraine and going to move to Australia!
What advices can you give??

 

[pratik5876]

If my gf arrives on a tourist visa and we intend to marry whilst she is here, can she apply for a bridging visa to remain in Australia while we submit and await the outcome of our spousal visa - or will she have to go home when her tourist visa expires.

I ask this because in the past...say 15 years ago I married my ex-wife (from the USA) this way, but not sure if the laws have changed since then. She came on a tourist visa, we got married during her first month here and then applied for a bridging and spousal visa which allowed her to remain in Australia.

Is this way still possible or do they have to return home now after their tourist visa expires and then we go through the normal process of submitting the spousal visa to bring them to Australia?

Hi Andy,

Your concern here is a bit complicated & seems like requires highly experienced one that knows about visa & Immigrations along with Australian Spouse & marriage legal terms & conditions.
I would like to suggest you to consult Overseas consultants for the Australia PR process. They can provide insights.

 

[Tim W]

[QUOTE="pratik5876, post: 77199, member: 24372"I would like to suggest you to consult Overseas consultants for the Australia PR process. They can provide insights.[/QUOTE]Whereas I would suggest consulting an Australian Registered Migration Agent who is also A lawyer.

 

[oriensimmigration]

Yes, you can marry someone on a tourist visa, but it’s important to understand the legal implications. A tourist visa is meant for short stays, not immigration. If your partner came with the intention to marry and stay, it may raise issues of visa fraud. However, if the marriage was unplanned and genuine, many countries (like the U.S., Canada, or Australia) allow you to apply for a spouse visa or change of status after marriage. Always follow legal procedures, avoid overstaying, and consider consulting an immigration expert to ensure a smooth transition from tourist to permanent resident status.

Pin Points:

• Consult a qualified immigration consultant or lawyer before making decisions — every case is unique.
• Always be honest in visa applications and interviews.
• Keep proof of genuine relationship (photos, messages, travel history) if you plan to sponsor your spouse.

 

[ian360]

Hello Andy,

Before my wife and I got married, I already had my PR and my fiancee came here with me on a tourist visa. She was originally planning to go home after a few months. But instead she decided to stay, and we applied for her spouse visa. I seem to remember that because we applied onshore, she was automatically given a bridging visa whilst it was being processed. Now this was a long time ago and I can not remember all of the details now, but I seem to recall this happening. So I think you should be able to get a bridging visa for your partner.