Hello Everyone,

I was hoping if someone could advise me. We applied for the Australian Spousal visa for my husband last year on July 17th 2009 in United Arab Emirates. We later moved to Lebanon 6 months later in October. We have provided them with ALL information, and I was informed from my husband's assurer of support that the visa has been approved from Australia 3 months ago.

On January we were asked to repeat 3 forms, one including form 80(Character check) which we did. I repeatedly asked the case officer if she is beginning to process these forms that we handed in again. She said no. But I somehow do not believe her, because I read that this form takes 6 months to process, and it has been MUCH longer as we handed them in Dubai before we left in October.

I spoke to the Australian Embassy a few days ago regarding a Tourist Visa and I was told that yes, my hubby can go to Australia on a Tourist visa, and if the Spousal visa is accepted while we're in Australia, we can pick it up from (for eg) from an Australian Embassy in New Zealand. So we're going to apply. Does anyone know how much funds one should have for the Tourist visa to be accepted? (Note: In the application I will be stating that a Family member will be supporting us with accommodation). Has anyone here travelled on a tourist visa while your spouse visa was being processed? If so, on what basis.

Can someone please help me out with this issue? What rights do I have regarding this issue? Who can I contact besides my case officer? We are very frustrated. We have been waiting over a year now!
Any answers will be greatly appreciated