Australian partner visas let the spouse, de facto partner or fiancé(e) of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia. Most couples first receive a temporary visa and then move to permanent residence.
✔ Reviewed September 2026 by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). Official sources: Home Affairs: 820/801, 309/100, 300.
Which partner visa is right for you?
Onshore Partner visa (820/801)
For couples where the applicant is in Australia. You apply for the temporary 820 and permanent 801 visas together, and can usually stay in Australia on a bridging visa while it is processed.
Offshore Partner visa (309/100)
For applicants outside Australia. You apply for the provisional 309 and permanent 100 visas together, and must be outside Australia when the 309 is granted.
Prospective Marriage visa (300)
For engaged couples where the applicant is outside Australia. You travel to Australia, marry within the visa period and then apply for the onshore partner visa.
Key requirements
- A genuine and continuing relationship, either married or de facto
- For de facto couples, usually at least 12 months living together before applying, unless the relationship is registered or another exception applies
- A sponsor who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, usually aged 18 or over
- Sponsor limits: a sponsor generally cannot sponsor more than two partners in a lifetime, or within five years of a previous sponsorship
- Health and character requirements for the applicant, and character checks for the sponsor
The four aspects of a genuine relationship
The Department looks at the whole relationship across four areas. Strong applications give evidence for each one.
Financial
Joint bank accounts, shared bills, joint leases or property, and sharing everyday expenses.
Household
Living together, sharing housework and responsibilities, and mail addressed to both of you.
Social
Being known as a couple by family and friends, travelling together, photos, and statements from people who know you.
Commitment
Knowledge of each other’s lives, plans for the future, time spent together and contact while apart.
From temporary to permanent
The permanent stage (801 or 100) is usually assessed about two years after the combined application was lodged. You provide updated evidence that the relationship is continuing. Permanent residence may be granted sooner in some circumstances, such as a long relationship or children together. Special provisions can apply if the relationship ends because of family violence or the death of the sponsor.
Common mistakes
- Applying before a de facto relationship meets the 12-month requirement without a valid exception
- Weak or one-sided evidence, such as photos only
- Inconsistent dates and statements between partners
- Not declaring previous relationships, sponsorships or visa refusals
- Applying onshore when a Schedule 3 or Section 48 issue applies
How Study Mate Migration helps
Eligibility check
We review your age, occupation, qualifications, English, work history and visa history against the current criteria.
Strategy
We compare this visa with other pathways so you choose the option with the best chance of success.
Documents
You get a tailored checklist, and we review every document before anything is lodged.
Lodgement and follow-up
We lodge through ImmiAccount, respond to requests from the Department and keep you updated until a decision.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a partner visa take?
Processing times vary widely and change often. Complete applications with strong evidence are usually decided faster. We give a realistic estimate for your case.
Can I work on a partner visa?
Yes. Once you hold the temporary partner visa, or a bridging visa with work rights, you can generally work and study in Australia.
Can I apply for an onshore partner visa if my visa has expired?
Possibly, but Schedule 3 criteria apply and compelling reasons are needed. Get advice before lodging.
Do we have to be married?
No. De facto couples, including same-sex couples, can apply if they meet the de facto requirements.
Can my children be included?
Yes. Dependent children can usually be included in the application.
Related visas and guides
Talk to a registered migration agent
Study Mate Migration is led by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). We help clients across Australia and overseas from our office in Adelaide, South Australia.
This is general information only and is not legal advice. Visa costs are approximate and vary with your circumstances, number of applicants and government changes; extra costs such as skills assessments, English tests, health checks and police certificates may also apply. Check the Department of Home Affairs website or speak with us for a current quote before you apply.
