If you’re planning to live in Australia with your partner, getting the right partner visa Australia is the first and most important step. Navigating the visa system can be confusing, especially with different visa subclasses like partner visa 820, partner visa 801, partner visa 309, and partner visa 100. But don’t worry — this guide will walk you through the essentials, whether you’re already in Australia or planning to join your loved one from overseas.
What is a Partner Visa Australia?
A partner visa Australia allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. These visas come in two stages — a temporary visa followed by a permanent visa. Depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside Australia, you’ll go through one of the following pathways:
- Onshore: Partner visa 820 (temporary) → Partner visa 801 (permanent)
- Offshore: Partner visa 309 (temporary) → Partner visa 100 (permanent)
Let’s take a closer look at each.
Partner Visa 820 – Temporary Visa (Onshore)
The partner visa 820 is designed for applicants who are already living in Australia. This visa allows you to stay in the country while the Department of Home Affairs processes your permanent partner visa (subclass 801).
Key Benefits:
- You can live, work, and study in Australia.
- You get access to Medicare.
- Your relationship must be genuine and ongoing.
Eligibility:
- You must be in Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted.
- Your partner must sponsor you.
- You must meet character and health requirements.
This visa is usually the first step toward permanent residency through the partner visa 801.
Partner Visa 801 – Permanent Visa (Onshore)
Once your partner visa 820 is granted and you’ve lived in a committed relationship for a specific period, you’re eligible to move to the partner visa 801. This visa grants permanent residency in Australia.
What You’ll Get:
- Live in Australia permanently.
- Access to social services like Medicare and Centrelink.
- The ability to apply for Australian citizenship when eligible.
- Freedom to sponsor eligible family members.
Usually, the permanent visa is granted two years after you apply for the temporary partner visa, though exceptions apply for long-term relationships or couples with children.
Partner Visa 309 – Temporary Visa (Offshore)
The partner visa 309 is for individuals who are outside Australia when they apply. This visa allows you to enter and stay in Australia temporarily while waiting for your permanent partner visa 100.
Features:
- You must be offshore at the time of application and when the visa is granted.
- Allows you to live, work, and study in Australia.
- Gives you access to Medicare once granted.
- Your sponsor must be your Australian partner.
Like the 820, the 309 visa leads to permanent residency through the partner visa 100.
Partner Visa 100 – Permanent Visa (Offshore)
The partner visa 100 is the second and final step for offshore applicants. It is the permanent version of the partner visa, allowing you to settle in Australia for good.
What It Offers:
- Permanent residency in Australia.
- Full work and study rights.
- Travel to and from Australia for five years.
- Access to Australia’s healthcare and social services.
- Eligibility to sponsor family and apply for citizenship.
This visa is typically granted two years after your 309 visa application unless you meet the criteria for early grant due to a long-term relationship.
Evidence You’ll Need
No matter which subclass you’re applying for, the most important part of your partner visa Australia application is proving your genuine relationship. Here’s what you should include:
- Joint financial documents (bank accounts, loans, household bills)
- Shared living arrangements (rental agreements, utility bills)
- Photos together over time
- Travel records
- Social proof (statements from friends and family)
- Written statements about your relationship journey
Consistency and authenticity in your documentation are key. The Department will assess whether your relationship is genuine, mutually exclusive, and ongoing.
Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on your visa subclass and the completeness of your application.
- Partner visa 820: 13 to 21 months
- Partner visa 801: 6 to 12 months after 820
- Partner visa 309: 12 to 18 months
- Partner visa 100: 6 to 12 months after 309
To speed up your application:
- Ensure all documents are uploaded.
- Complete health checks and police clearances early.
- Keep communication records updated.
Partner Visa Australia Fees
The application fee for a combined partner visa (temporary + permanent) is AUD $8,850 as of 2025. This fee covers both stages of the visa — no need to pay again when transitioning from temporary to permanent.
You may also incur extra costs for:
- Medical examinations
- Police certificates
- Document translation and notarisation
Can You Work While Waiting?
Yes, you can! If you’ve applied for the partner visa 820, you’ll receive a bridging visa with full work and study rights while your application is being processed. If you’re on the 309 visa, you can start working as soon as it’s granted.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Many partner visa applications are delayed or rejected due to avoidable issues. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Insufficient relationship evidence
- Outdated contact details or address
- Not responding to requests for further information
- Applying while still legally married to someone else (without finalising divorce)
Always double-check your forms, and if you’re unsure, it may be wise to consult a registered migration agent.
Final Words
Applying for a partner visa in Australia is a detailed but rewarding process. Whether you’re onshore applying for a partner visa 820 or offshore starting with the partner visa 309, understanding the stages — and preparing the right evidence — can greatly improve your chances of success.
By staying organised, honest, and thorough, you’ll not only increase your approval chances but also ease the journey of joining your partner in building a life together in Australia.
