Australian Partner Visa
Australia’s Partner Visa is proof of that! If you’re in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, the Partner Visa allows you to live, work, and build a life together in Australia. Here’s everything you need to know before applying.
What is a Partner Visa?
The Australian Partner Visa enables the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. There are two main stages:
• Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820) — lets you stay while your permanent visa is processed.
• Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801) — granted about 2 years after you apply, if the relationship is ongoing.
There is also an Offshore option:
• Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309) and Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100) for those applying from outside Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must:
• Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship.
• Be married or in a de facto relationship (living together for at least 12 months, unless registered).
• Prove shared life (finances, household, social activities, commitment).
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Your partner must be an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen.
Documents You’ll Need
• Identity documents (passport, birth certificate).
• Relationship evidence (photos, joint bank accounts, lease agreements).
• Statutory declarations from friends/family.
• Marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship.
• Police checks and health exams.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Partner Visa is one of Australia’s most expensive visas:
• Application fee: Around AUD $9,095 (as of 2025).
• Additional costs for medicals, police checks, translations, etc.
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times can vary, but generally:
• Temporary visa (820/309): 9 to 22 months.
• Permanent visa (801/100): about 2 years after applying.
Tip: Provide strong evidence early to speed things up!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Incomplete application or missing documents.
• Not providing enough relationship evidence.
• Applying without understanding eligibility (especially de facto requirements).
• Waiting too long to update the Department about changes in your relationship.
