Help Us Stay Together: Support Our Australian Partner Visa

Hi everyone,

We’re Maria and Rhys, a couple that has been together for over 5 and a half years. Our journey started in Macau under unusual circumstances when I, Maria, lost my passport and found myself unable to return to China. Rhys stepped in to help me, and from that moment on, we began a bond that has only grown stronger over time. Despite the challenges of living in different countries, we kept our relationship alive through visits and long-distance communication, until the COVID-19 pandemic brought us together in Australia. It was during this time that we realised our relationship was meant to be.

Australia has become more than just a place to be with Rhys; it has become a home. The people, the land, and especially the ocean have captured my heart, and after spending most of our relationship here, it feels right to continue building our life together in this beautiful country. However, to make that possible, I need to apply for a Partner Visa, which would allow us to continue investing in our relationship, our careers, and the Australian lifestyle that we’ve come to love.

Unfortunately, the rising cost of living, the expenses involved in gathering documents overseas, and consultations with immigration lawyers have made it extremely difficult for us to save enough for the visa application fee. This fee is one of the highest in the world (AUD9,095.00 - https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/partner-onshore/temporary-820), and despite our best efforts, we’ve come to the conclusion that we need some help.

For the past four years, I’ve been fortunate to stay in Australia on a COVID-19 visa, which allowed me to continue working in my dream job here. But with recent changes in immigration rules, applying for a Partner Visa is our only option to stay together.

We’re facing a significant deadline—our application must be lodged by September 5, 2024. This visa would give us the freedom to move forward without the constant stress and uncertainty we’ve experienced in recent years. It would bring clarity and stability to our lives, allowing us to focus on our future together.

I’ve always tried my best to face challenges independently, but this is the biggest one yet, and we’re turning to our friends, family, and community for support. If you know me, you know that asking for help is my last resort, but this time, I’m reaching out because it means the world to us. Any contribution, big or small, would truly make a difference and help us stay together in the place we call home.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

With love and gratitude,


Maria & Rhys