What is a Form 888 and why is it needed?

A Form 888 is an essential component of Australia’s Partner visa applications, particularly for those seeking a permanent visa or a Prospective Marriage visa. It serves as a declaration form where family members, friends, or a supporting witness attest to the genuine and continuing relationship between the visa applicant and their partner. 

It is crucial to understand that a poorly prepared or incomplete Form 888 can significantly jeopardize your chances of obtaining a visa. The most common reason for partner visa refusal in Australia is a lack of evidence to prove a genuine and committed relationship —and this includes inadequate or inconsistent Form 888s. A lack of detail, vague descriptions, or contradictions could lead to your partner visa being rejected or delayed significantly.

A Form 888 is not merely a formality, it is a legal document with significant consequences. To ensure it is completed accurately and effectively, it is advised that you seek professional assistance from a migration lawyer at Australian Migration Lawyers from the outset. 

At Australian Migration Lawyers, we have the expertise to ensure that your Form 888s are completed correctly, thoroughly, and consistently, with no room for error. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, helping to strengthen your visa application and avoid costly mistakes. Contact us today to ensure your Partner visa application is in the best possible hands.

Example of Form 888

The Form 888 can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website. It is important to always check the Department website to ensure you are using the most up to date and right form for your application. See sample form 888 doc below or download the form 888 document here.

The first page of a Form 888 comprises short-answer questions requesting the supporting witness's personal and contact information as well as details of the visa applicant and their partner. The second page consists of two detailed response questions and one optional question, which invites the witness to provide any additional relevant information to support the visa application. Although this question is optional, we recommend answering it, as it provides an opportunity to further strengthen your application.

Question 4 asks the witness to ‘State whether you believe the relationship of the applicant and their partner or fiancé(e) to be genuine and continuing, and give your reasons for your belief’.  Simple statements such as "I believe their relationship is genuine and continuing because they love each other" will not be sufficient. This question invites the witness to share their personal beliefs about the nature of the couple’s relationship, including specific examples of their firsthand experiences with the couple, such as when in person meetings with the couple have happened. For example, you may wish to share the way in which the couple interact in various settings, provide specific examples of emotional support or highlight the way in which the couple’s friends and family perceive and support them.

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Number of Form 888s needed

Form 888 plays a crucial role in supporting your Partner visa application. The form is like a statutory declaration provided by witnesses who can attest to the genuineness of the applicant’s relationship with their partner. Typically, family members, friends, or other individuals familiar with the couple’s relationship complete this form. The form requires these witnesses to describe the nature of the relationship, offering insight into its continuity, commitment, and authenticity.

The Department of Home Affairs mandates that at least two Form 888 declarations accompany each Partner visa application. However, submitting four to six completed forms can further enhance the strength of the application by providing broader perspectives.

Common mistakes with Form 888

Form 888 statutory declarations. Case officers favour clear, detailed, and consistent language, especially when assessing Partner visa applications. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

• Lack of Narrative Flow: Writing about each relationship quality in isolation can appear formulaic. Instead, craft a natural, chronological narrative that describes the genuine and continuing relationship between both the visa applicant and their applicant's partner over time, creating a cohesive and compelling story that highlights the couple’s committed relationship.
• Ambiguity or Vagueness: General statements without specific details or examples can appear weak. The declarations should include concrete moments and insights that bring the relationship to life. Similarly statements should avoid referencing sample answers or examples found online.
• Inconsistent Statements: Any inconsistencies between different Form 888 declarations, or with the couple’s statements, may lead to suspicion or rejection by the Department. Ensure that each declaration supports a unified, truthful account of the relationship. 
• Inaccurate Names: It’s crucial that the witness enters their full  name exactly as it appears on the person’s identity document they have provided. Similarly, when filling in the names of the applicant and their partner, the witness must use the full legal names as per the applicant’s identity documents.
• Confusing the Applicant with Their Partner: Witnesses sometimes confuse which person in the couple is the applicant. The applicant is the person seeking the visa, while the other party is their partner or fiancé(e).
• Failure to Attach Identity Documents or Sign the Form: The witness must sign the form and provide a copy of their identity document.

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If you are interested in getting more information about your situation, get in touch with Australian Migration Lawyers for a consultation.

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Who can complete the Form 888 Partner visa

A recent change now allows a non-Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, and Australian citizen alike to all complete Form 888, as long as they meet the requirements. The person filling out the form should:

1. Know both members of the couple
2. Be familiar with the relationship history
3. Describe the social dynamics of the relationship

This flexibility allows applicants to include declarations from individuals who know them best, even if they reside outside Australia.

Does the Form 888 need to be certified?

The Form 888 does not need to be certified when submitted for an Australian Partner visa application as it is not a statutory declaration. However, the person completing the Form 888 must provide documentary evidence of their current name, age and, where applicable, Australian citizenship or Australian permanent residency (for example a copy of a birth certificate, Australian Passport or Passport containing visa). Further acceptable proof may include a copy of the supporting witness’s driver’s licence or National ID card.

This ensures that all supporting evidence meets the Australian Department of Home Affairs' requirements for authenticity and reliability in the Partner visa application process.

Supporting witness

A supporting witness is someone who can attest to the relationship between the visa applicant and their partner. 

The key requirements are:

1. The witness must know both partners of the couple.
2. They must be familiar with the couple’s relationship.
3. They should be able to describe the social aspects of the relationship.
4. They must be at least 18 years of age.

When should you ask witnesses to complete a Form 888?

It is advisable to reach out to your witnesses early in the process to request that they complete Form 888. This task should be one of the first steps after planning your evidence. Delays are common when waiting for third parties, such as family or friends, to complete the form. 

Tips on completing Form 888 Partner visa

Here are a few proven techniques for creating standout statements:

• Tell a Story: Avoid separating the declaration into rigid “pillars” or blocks. Instead, weave each quality naturally into a flowing, chronological story that is easy for case
• Use Specific Examples: Detailed descriptions of shared experiences, such as family gatherings or vacations, bring the relationship to life and add authenticity.
• Maintain Consistency Across Statements: Case officers will cross-reference declarations for consistency. Small details, such as dates or specific events, should align between statements from the couple and the Form 888 declarants.

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Completing Form 888 declarations is an important step for any Partner visa application. By submitting multiple high-quality Form 888s with clear, consistent, and narrative-driven content, you can provide the Department with the evidence needed for a favourable decision. It should be noted that providing a written statement from your friends and family is only one part of the visa application process, with other evidence required in order to prove that you have a genuine relationship. Nonetheless, given the weight of this document, it is critical that you seek professional assistance from a migration lawyer at Australian Migration Lawyers from the outset.

For assistance with preparing Form 888 declarations or submitting your Partner visa or Prospective Marriage visa application, the team at Australian Migration Lawyers is here to help. Our experienced lawyers will guide you through the intricacies of the visa application process, ensuring all necessary forms, including Form 888, are completed accurately and submitted. We understand the importance of presenting a well-organised and convincing application, and our team is dedicated to ensuring your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Contact us today to arrange a consultation and take the first step toward applying for your visa.

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