Partner Visa
Australia offers partner visas for individuals in a relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. These visas allow couples to live together in Australia legally, either temporarily or permanently. Understanding the process is essential to increase your chances of a smooth application.
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There are different kinds of partner visa depending on the nature of your relationship. The best visa option depends on the nature and status of your relationship and your location at the time you apply.
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Partner Visa (apply inside Australia) (Subclass 820/801)
Allows you to live in Australia temporarily while your permanent visa application is processed.
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Typically granted to applicants who are already in Australia.
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Duration: Until a decision is made on the permanent visa.
Partner Visa (apply outside Australia) (Subclass 309/100)
Allows you to live in Australia temporarily while your permanent visa application is processed.
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Typically granted to applicants who are outside Australia.
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Duration: Until a decision is made on the permanent visa.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a partner visa, you must:
Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner (spouse or de facto).
Be at least 18 years old.
Meet health and character requirements.
Have an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen sponsor.
Relationship Evidence:
Include documents like joint bank accounts, lease agreements, photographs, communication history, and statutory declarations from friends or family confirming the relationship.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The Partner visa is a pathway to permanent residency. It is a two-stage process which comprises the following steps:
1. Check Your Eligibility
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Ensure you meet all relationship and sponsor requirements.
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Decide which visa type suits your situation (temporary, permanent, or prospective marriage).
2. Prepare Documents
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Personal identification (passport, birth certificate)
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Relationship proof (shared finances, living arrangements)
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Character documents (police certificates)
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Health assessment reports (if required)
3. Lodge Your Application
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Applications are lodged online via the ImmiAccount portal.
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Ensure all documents are scanned and attached in the required format.
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Pay the visa application fee (varies based on visa type).
4. Receive Acknowledgement
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You will get an acknowledgment email confirming receipt of your application.
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You may receive additional requests for evidence or clarification.
5. Health and Character Checks
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You may need medical examinations and police checks from countries you’ve lived in.
6. Visa Decision
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If successful:
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Temporary visa holders can live and work in Australia.
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Permanent visa holders gain full permanent residency rights.
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Tips for a Successful Application
Make sure you satisfy all the visa criteria
Respond promptly to any additional requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
Submit complete and organised evidence of your relationship.
Maintain continuous contact with your partner during the processing period to demonstrate an ongoing relationship.
Do not provide false or misleading information; fake documents can lead to refusal and bans
Seek professional assistance from a registered migration agent if your case is complex.
