De Facto Relationship Evidence: Cohabitation and Handling Gaps

This article is general information only and does not constitute migration or legal advice; requirements can change and individual circumstances vary, so consider seeking advice from a registered migration agent or legal practitioner.

Last Updated: February 2026

De facto partner visa applications succeed when the evidence clearly shows a shared domestic life and a genuine, continuing relationship. This guide focuses on how to prove cohabitation and how to explain gaps or periods apart.

What decision makers look for in de facto cases

De facto relationships are assessed on the same four pillars as other partner relationships, but cohabitation evidence and a shared household are especially important. In many cases, there is also a minimum relationship duration requirement or a specific exception, so always confirm the criteria that apply to your situation.

Proving cohabitation

Strong cohabitation evidence usually includes:

• Documents linking both partners to the same address.
• Evidence of shared bills, rent, or household responsibilities.
• Statements that describe your living arrangements and shared routine.

Handling time apart

Time apart is common and does not automatically harm an application. The key is to explain it clearly and show that the relationship continued during that period.

Useful evidence includes:

• Travel records that show visits.
• Communication records showing ongoing contact.
• A short explanation of why the separation happened and when it ended.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying only on recent cohabitation evidence.
• Leaving long gaps in the timeline without explanation.
• Submitting lots of similar documents without context.

Practical preparation tips

• Build a timeline and link each period to evidence.
• Use a document index to show how each item supports the de facto claim.
• Keep statements consistent between applicant and sponsor.

This guide is general information only and does not replace professional migration advice.