How to fill out Form 888 for a partner visa (with sample answers)?

Do you want to ensure that Form 888 effectively captures the essence of your relationship? Applying for a partner visa involves a complex and time-consuming process, with Form 888 being a critical element. This form plays a vital role in proving the authenticity of your genuine and continuing relationship with the Australian authorities.

When completing Form 888, include your personal information and details about your relationship, and ensure that your witnesses provide declarations confirming your relationship’s authenticity. Sign and date the form, and carefully review it for accuracy before submitting it as per the instructions from the Department of Home Affairs or your immigration advisor.

Now, let’s delve into this blog, which will lead you through the intricacies of the process and offer sample answers to help you vividly portray your special bond, making a lasting mark on those who shape your future. So, pick up a pen, let the ink flow, and join us on this journey of self-expression, paving the path for a love story that crosses boundaries.

Table of Contents

Understanding Form 888

What is Form 888?

Form 888, also known as the “Statutory Declaration by a Supporting Witness in Relation to a Partner or Prospective Marriage Visa Application,” is an official document used in Australian immigration law to provide evidence of the legitimacy of your relationship when applying for a partner visa in Australia. It’s a declaration made by someone who knows you and your partner well and can vouch for the authenticity of your relationship.

Who Can Act as a Witness on Form 888?

The witness, also referred to as the “supporting witness,” should be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. They must be at least 18 years old and have known you and your partner for a significant period, usually over 12 months. Ideally, they should have regular and direct contact with both you and your partner to provide a credible statement. Additionally, the Form 888s they complete need to be certified by an authorised witness.

Note:

• If the visa applicant is outside Australia and can’t find an Australian citizen or permanent resident to complete this form, any family members and friends who know both the applicant and partner can do so.
• This person completing the Form 888 partner visa must provide evidence of their identity, including their name, age, and, if relevant, Australian citizenship or permanent residency.
• Acceptable proof may include a certified copy of their birth certificate, an Australian passport, or a passport with a permanent visa. All documents should be properly authenticated.

Who are eligible prescribed persons to witness the 888 forms?

The eligible individual indicated below must witness Statutory Declarations form 888 for a partner visa.

1. Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents
2. Eligible New Zealand citizens
3. Registered migration agents
4. Legal practitioners
5. Justices of the Peace (JP)
6. Police officers
7. Pharmacists
8. Dentists
9. Chiropractors
10. Veterinary surgeons
11. Medical practitioners
12. Registered nurses

Key Information Required on Form 888 Statutory Declaration

Section 1: Supporting Witness’s Details

Subheading 1: Personal Information

• Name: In this section, the witness should provide their full name as it appears on their identification documents.
• Current Address: The witness must provide their current residential address.
• Contact Number: It is essential to include a valid contact number where they can be reached.

Subheading 2: Applicant and Sponsor Information

• Applicant’s full name
• Applicant partner’s full name

Section 2: How the Supporting Witness Knows the Applicant and Partner

Relationship Details

1. How do you know the applicant and their partner?

Describe how long you have known the couple, e.g., “I am a close friend of the applicant and have known the couple for five years.”

2. How long have you known the applicant and their sponsor?

Specify the duration of your relationship with the visa applicant and their partner, e.g., “I have known them since they started dating in 2017.”

3. How often do you see the couple together?

Describe the frequency of your interactions with the couple, e.g., “I see them together at least once a week.”

Section 3: Nature of the Relationship of the Sponsor and Applicant

1. How long have you been aware of the relationship between the visa applicant and their partner?

Specify when you first became aware of their relationship.

2. Have you ever been told of any separation between the applicant and their partner?

Answer honestly. If there has been a separation, describe it.

Section 4: Assessment of the Relationship

1. In your opinion, is the relationship between the applicant and their partner genuine and continuing in all aspects of the relationship?

Give your honest opinion, e.g., “Yes, I believe their relationship is genuine and continuing.”

2. How have you formed this opinion?
Explain why you believe their relationship is genuine, e.g., “I have witnessed their love and commitment to each other through various social events and interactions.”

Section 5: Supporting Witness’s Declaration

1. Date: The date the supporting witness completes the form.

2. Signature: The witness should sign the form in front of a qualified witness.

Supporting Documentation

Besides filling out Form 888, you need to provide evidence of the genuineness of the relationship with supplementary documents. These documents may encompass joint bank statements, utility bills, photographs, travel records, and more.

After you have completed Form 888 and assembled your supporting paperwork, submit these materials together with your partner visa application to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection . Timing is of the essence in this process, so it’s essential to follow the specific submission guidelines outlined by the Australian government.

Tips to fill out Form 888

Writing a clear statutory declaration form for an Australian partner visa gives you the best chance of success. Follow these expert tips for crafting a clear and compelling declaration that leaves no doubt in the minds of immigration officials.

1. Provide Detailed and Honest Responses: When submitting a witness statement, provide specific and honest responses. False information can have legal consequences. Being detailed and truthful can increase the credibility of your statement.
2. Use Specific and Relevant Examples: Use concrete examples related to the claims you’re making in an affidavit to strengthen your witness statement. These instances help establish credibility and provide a clear picture of the circumstances or events in question.
3. Ensure Witness Eligibility and Credibility: Double-check that your witness meets the eligibility criteria before designating them on your Form 888 or affidavit. They should meet the eligibility criteria and have a trustworthy relationship with the applicant. This enhances the reliability of your statement.
4. Keep Copies and Records: Make copies of Form 888 or affidavit after its completion and keep them for future reference. This ensures a backup in case the originals are lost or damaged. Having a record of your statements can also be helpful if legal or administrative issues arise.

Statutory Declaration Form 888 for Partner Visa or Prospective Marriage Visa – Example Answers

During the application process for a partner visa, you need to provide up to three distinct statements. It is also possible that you will be contacted for additional comments or interviews regarding the information you provide.

For assistance in completing the Form 888 statutory declaration, follow our straightforward guide to creating an effective Form 888 to support your application:

Form 888 Example Question No. 3:

• I first had the pleasure of meeting the applicant back in 2015 through a mutual friend during a social event. This event was a delightful dinner party organised by our mutual friend, where we had the opportunity to get to know each other better. Since then, we have maintained a strong and regular connection.
• Our primary mode of communication is through text message, which enables us to share thoughts, updates and stay connected, even when distance separates us. Additionally, we engage in occasional phone calls, allowing us to have more personal and real-time conversations.
• As for in-person meetings, we make a point to come together every few months, especially during special occasions and gatherings where we can celebrate and enjoy each other’s company. These gatherings have provided a fantastic opportunity to witness the strength and authenticity of the applicant’s relationship with their partner.

Form 888 Example Question No. 4:

• Yes, I genuinely believe that their relationship is authentic and enduring.
• They have shared that they met through a common interest in volunteering and have been inseparable since. Their actions clearly demonstrate their love and commitment. They frequently go on trips together, support each other’s goals, and share their dreams.
• For instance, they jointly manage a charity initiative, showcasing their shared values and dedication. They have joint accounts and often discuss their long-term plans, like starting a family and growing old together.
• They collaboratively manage household chores, sharing the tasks and working together on financial matters. Their recent addition to the family, an adopted dog, is now a shared responsibility, and both are actively involved in her care and well-being.

WARNING:

According to the Statutory Declarations Act 1959, individuals who deliberately provide false information in a statutory declaration may face a maximum penalty of four years in prison. Furthermore, the Migration Act 1958 (the Act) imposes penalties, including up to 12 months of imprisonment or a fine amounting to AUD12,000, for furnishing false or deceptive statements.

Form 888 Example Question No.5:

• I want to highlight that the applicant has effortlessly become a part of our family gatherings, and my family has developed a strong affection for them. The applicant holds a special place within our circle of friends, contributing happiness and a sense of togetherness to our gatherings. I wholeheartedly wish for the applicant to be granted the visa, enabling them to further nurture their life with their partner in Australia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Filling out an 888 form in Australia requires attention to detail and accuracy. Making mistakes on this form can lead to legal complications or the rejection of your declaration. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Incomplete or Missing Information:

• Mistake: Failing to provide your full address on the form.
• Example: Leave the address section blank or include only the street name without the house number.

2. Incorrect Dates:

• Mistake: Declaring an event that happened outside the allowable timeframe.
• Example: Stating that an incident occurred on November 15, 2024, when the declaration form was signed on November 10, 2024, and only allows statements within the last 7 days.

3. Vague or Generalised Statements:

• Mistake: Making vague or generalised statements without specific examples or supporting details.
• Example: Stating in the declaration that “we love each other” without providing any specific instances or context to substantiate this claim. A better approach would be to mention concrete examples or incidents that demonstrate your love and commitment.

4. Illegible Handwriting:

• Mistake: Providing a form with handwriting that is difficult to read.
• Example: Using cursive writing that is hard to decipher, potentially leading to confusion or misinterpretation.

5. Lack of Witness Information:

• Mistake: Not providing complete witness information.
• Example: Omitting the witness’s occupation or qualification or failing to have the witness sign and date the form.

6. Missing or Incorrect Attachments:

• Mistake: Not including required supporting documents.
• Example: Failing to attach relevant invoices, receipts, or evidence to support your form regarding a financial transaction.

Ensure your supporting documents are accurate.