For joints separated by boundaries, Australian partner visa offers a way to create life together in Australia and create life together. Whether you are in a committed relationship or already married, this visa allows eligible partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live, work and eventually settle in Australia.

However, the participant visa application process can be complex, expensive and emotionally dry without correct information. In this blog post, we will guide you through key aspects of Australian partner visa- Types, eligibility criteria, costs, deadlines and useful tips for a successful application.

What is Australian partner visa?

Australian partner visa allows a worthy Australian spouse or real partner to live temporarily in Australia and eventually become a permanent resident. It is available for both the opposite-sex and the same-sex joints and comes in two main routes:

1. Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)

For applicants already in Australia.

Apply for temporary visa (Subclass 820) first.

If approved, you live in Australia waiting for a permanent visa (subclass 801).

2. Offshore partner visa (subcontinent 309/100)
For applicants outside Australia.

Apply for temporary visa (subclass 309).

Once approved, you can travel in Australia waiting for a permanent visa (subclass 100).

Temporary vs. permanent partner visa
Both onshore and offshore partner visa include two stages on the way:

Stage 1 - Temporary Visa (subclass 820 or 309)
Allows you to live, work and study in Australia.

Provides access to Medicare (Australia's healthcare system).

Valuable when you wait for a permanent visa to be processed.

Stage 2 - Permanent Visa (subclass 801 or 100)

Grants permanent residency in Australia.

Eligible for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Gives full access to social services, work rights, and travel freedom.

You usually apply for both stages at the same time. The permanent visa is granted about 2 years after the temporary visa, provided the relationship is ongoing.

Who Can Sponsor a Partner?

Your sponsor must be:

An Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizens,

At least 18 years,

Not currently sponsoring another partner (exceptions apply).

The sponsors will also have to pass the character check and be limited if they have sponsored another on partner visa within the first five years.

What are the major eligibility requirements?
To qualify for a partner visa, you must be in one of the following types of relationships:

Married Couples
Your marriage must be legally recognized in Australia.

You must be in a genuine and continuing relationship.

De Facto Partners
You must have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months before applying (unless registered).

You must live together or not live apart permanently.

Registering your relationship in some Australian states (such as NSW, VIC, or QLD) may help bypass 12 months requirement.

In all cases, you have to prove that your relationship is real to use evidence like:

Joint finances (bank accounts, bills)

Shared household documents

Travel history together

Photos, social media posts

Statements from friends and family

How much does it cost?

By 2025, an application fee for a partner visa is:

AUD $8,850 for the main applicant

Additional fees for dependents (children)

While expensive, this fee covers both the temporary and permanent stages.

It is one of the most expensive visa applications, but it is one of the most common due to the strong demand for reunion of the family.

How long does it take?

Processing time for partner visas can vary greatly. on average:

Temporary Visa (820/309): 12-20 months

Permanent Visa (801/100): 2 years after temporary visa

In some situations (such as long -term relationship with children), permanent visas can be temporarily given immediately.

What happens if the relationship ends?

If your relationship ends during the visa process, your visa can be canceled or denied at the base of the platform. However, there are exceptions where you can still be eligible for permanent residence, such as:

If you were victims of domestic violence

If your partner dies

If you share children's custody

Tips for a successful application
Provide strong evidence: Include a wide range of documents that prove your relationship over time - this is the number one reason. Partner visa is delayed or denied.

Stay honest: Discrends or false information can be refused or future restrictions can be given rise.

Don't wait too long: As soon as you are eligible to reduce waiting time and avoid the complexities of visa termination.

Use Form 888: These are statutory announcements telling about their relationship by friends or family - they are powerful supporting documents.

Consider professional assistance: A registered migration agent can assist in complex cases or if you are uncertain how to prepare your application.

final thoughts

Australian partner visa is a powerful way to reunite with your loved one and start life together in Australia. While the process can be long and expensive, proper preparation and real documents can greatly improve your chances of success.