Types of Partner Visa in Australia
- Onshore Partner Visa – Subclass 820 (Temporary) & 801 (Permanent):
The onshore partner visa is for applicants who are already in Australia and wish to remain with their partner while their visa is processed.
- Offshore Partner Visa – Subclass 309 (Temporary) & 100 (Permanent):
The offshore partner visa is designed for applicants who are outside Australia at the time of lodgement or decision.
– Apply while you are in Australia
– Temporary visa (820) is granted first
– After two years, if the relationship continues, you may receive the permanent visa (801)
– Apply while outside Australia
– Temporary visa (309) is granted first
– After two years, you may qualify for the permanent visa (100)
Requirements for a Partner Visa in Australia
- Must be married or in a genuine de facto relationship.
- De facto couples must usually show 12 months of living together, unless the relationship is legally registered.
- Provide strong relationship evidence.
- Meet health and character requirements.
Partner Visa Benefits
- A successful Partner Visa application allows you to:
- Live, work, and study in Australia.
- Access to Medicare (after temporary visa grant).
- Include dependent children.
- Pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship.
Partner Visa Processing Time (Approximate)
| Visa Stage | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Subclass 820 | 21-25 months |
| Subclass 801 | Additional 12+ months after 2-year wait |
| Subclass 309 | 13-18 months |
| Subclass 100 | Similar to 801 (after 2 years) |
Processing times can vary depending on application quality and individual circumstances. For the most accurate estimate, applicants should refer to the Department of Home Affairs processing time guidance for Subclass 407.
Our Partner Visa Application Process (with Professional Support)
- Step 1: Initial Assessment:
We begin with a tailored assessment of your circumstances, including your relationship history, residency status, and eligibility for both temporary and permanent stages of the Partner Visa (Subclasses 820/801 and 309/100).
- Step 2: Document Planning & Preparation:
We guide you in gathering and organising all required evidence for your application, including relationship history, financial co-mingle evidence, household documentation, and personal statements.
- Step 3: Application Drafting & Review:
Our team prepares or reviews all application forms, supporting statements, and attachments with precision. We ensure that every section complies with visa requirements and current policy, reducing the risk of delays or requests for further information.
- Step 4: Submission and Monitoring:
Once your Partner Visa application is lodged, we provide ongoing monitoring and updates, including liaising with the Department of Home Affairs and advising you on responses to any follow-up requests.
- Step 5: Outcome Support:
We support you through the entire decision period, explain the outcome, and assist with next steps, whether that’s preparing for your transition to a permanent visa or addressing further documentation requests.
Why Professional Help Matters
Partner visa applications can be complex and highly documented. Errors, missing evidence, or incomplete relationship proof are common reasons for processing delays, requests for more information, or even refusals.
Working with our registered migration professionals means:
- A complete understanding of types of partner visa Australia and which pathway suits you.
- Help gathering and presenting robust relationship evidence.
- Avoiding common application mistakes that cause delays.
- Clear guidance on health, character, and immigration requirements.
- Confidence that your application meets current standards and expectations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Partner Visa in Australia?
A Partner visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to live, work and study in Australia. It includes both temporary and permanent stages.
Can I work in Australia while my partner visa application is being processed?
Yes. Onshore applicants with a valid bridging visa can typically work while their partner visa application is assessed.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for a partner visa?
While not mandatory, professional assistance can improve the accuracy of your application, help you gather relationship evidence, avoid errors, and navigate complex policy requirements that often change.
How do you prove a genuine relationship?
Evidence can include shared financial documents, joint leases or mortgages, photos, communication history, statutory declarations from family and friends, and more. Click Consulting help you understand what’s needed and how to organise it.