Partner Visa 

Australia offers a Partner Visa to allow the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. Whether you’re married or in a de facto relationship, this visa can provide a pathway to permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a Partner Visa, you must:

  • Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your Australian partner.

  • Be married or in a de facto relationship (including same-sex relationships).

  • Meet the health and character requirements.

  • If you are applying as a de-facto couple, you must have lived together for at least 12 months unless your relationship is registered.

Types of Partner Visas

Applying for a Partner Visa in Australia involves a detailed process with two distinct stages:

Stage 1: Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820 and 309)

  • Subclass 820: For applicants within Australia.

  • Subclass 309: For applicants outside Australia.

  • This is the first stage of the partner visa process, allowing the applicant to live in Australia temporarily while their permanent visa application is processed.

Stage 2: Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801 and 100)

  • Subclass 801: For applicants who have already been granted the Subclass 820 visa.

  • Subclass 100: For applicants who have already been granted the Subclass 309 visa.

  • Once granted, this visa allows the holder to live in Australia permanently

Application Process

  • Start by gathering all the necessary documents that demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship. This includes evidence such as joint financial statements, photos, communications, and statutory declarations from friends and family. You'll also need to provide identity documents and health and character clearances.

  • Once your documents are ready, submit your application online through the Department of Home Affairs website or at the relevant Australian visa office. Ensuring every detail is correct is crucial to avoid delays.

  • After lodgement, your application will enter the processing stage. If you’re applying from within Australia, you may receive a bridging visa that allows you to stay while your application is reviewed.

  • During processing, you might be asked to attend an interview or provide further evidence to support your application. Responding promptly to these requests is important to keep your application on track.

  • If your application is successful, you will be granted a Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820). This visa allows you to stay in Australia, work, and study. You can also access Medicare and travel in and out of Australia.

  • After two years from the date you applied for the Temporary Partner Visa, you can apply for the Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801). You will be required to update your information and provide any additional evidence of your ongoing relationship and lodge the application online.

  • If approved, you will be granted a Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801). This visa allows you to live in Australia permanently, with full work and study rights, and access to social security and healthcare benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I include my children in the Partner Visa application?

Yes, dependent children can be included in your visa application.

What happens if my relationship ends before the Permanent Visa is granted?

The visa process may be affected, and you could be required to leave Australia unless you meet certain exceptions (e.g., if you have experienced domestic violence).

Can I work and study on a Partner Visa?

Yes, holders of the Temporary Partner Visa can work and study in Australia.

What are the current processing times for a Partner Visa application?

Due to high demand, processing times are currently extended. You should expect the process to take approximately 6 to 12 months for the temporary visa stage and 12 to 18 months for the permanent visa stage. However, these timeframes can vary based on individual circumstances.

What are the costs for applying for the Partner Visa?

The combined cost for both the temporary and permanent visa stages is approximately $8,085 AUD. This total includes fees for both stages of the visa application process.