How to Apply for a Partner Visa in Australia

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for individuals who want to build a life with their partner in a country known for its high quality of life, cultural diversity, and excellent healthcare and education systems. If you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, applying for a Partner Visa is the official pathway to living together in Australia.

As registered Australian migration agents, we know the process can feel overwhelming, from understanding eligibility to preparing extensive documentation and navigating strict immigration requirements. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you apply for a Partner Visa in Australia with confidence.

What is a Partner Visa?

The Partner Visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. It involves two main stages:

1. Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820 – onshore / Subclass 309 – offshore)
   
2. Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801 – onshore / Subclass 100 – offshore)

When you apply, you’re technically applying for both the temporary and permanent visa at the same time. The Department of Home Affairs will first assess and (if eligible) grant the temporary visa, and later assess you for the permanent visa, usually after 2 years.

Types of Partner Visas

There are two main application paths depending on whether you are inside or outside Australia:

1. Onshore Partner Visa

•       Subclass 820 (Temporary)
  
•       Subclass 801 (Permanent)
  
•       Applicant must be in Australia at the time of application and when the temporary visa is granted.

2. Offshore Partner Visa

•       Subclass 309 (Temporary)
  
•       Subclass 100 (Permanent)
  
•       Applicant must be outside Australia when applying and when the temporary visa is granted.

Who is Eligible to Apply Partner Visa?

To apply for a Partner Visa, you must be in a genuine and continuing relationship with your sponsor (your Australian partner), and you must meet one of the following relationship categories:

•     Married (legal under Australian law)
  
•     De facto relationship (at least 12 months living together OR have registered relationship)
  
•     Engaged (Prospective Marriage Visa) – different visa (Subclass 300)
  

In addition, both you and your partner must meet character and health requirements. The sponsor must also meet specific obligations and may be subject to limitations if they have sponsored someone else before.

Essential Documents for Your Australian Partner Visa Application

The Partner Visa application is document-heavy, and the quality of your supporting documents plays a major role in the success of your application. Some of the key documents include:

1. Identity Documents

•       Passport
  
•       Birth certificate
  
•       National ID (if applicable)

2. Relationship Evidence

•       Marriage certificate or proof of de facto relationship
  
•       Joint bank account statements
  
•       Lease agreements or utility bills showing shared address
  
•       Photos together
  
•       Travel history
  
•       Personal statements about your relationship

3. Sponsor Documents

•       Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency
  
•       Passport
  
•       Previous sponsorship history

4. Other Documents

•       Police clearances (from every country lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years)
  
•       Health checks (after receiving a request from the Department)
  

You’ll also need to provide Form 888 declarations from friends and family who can confirm your relationship.

Partner Visa Application Process – Step by Step

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before applying, ensure both you and your partner meet the basic eligibility requirements. This is where working with a migration agent can be extremely helpful.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

Collect all required documents to avoid delays. Incomplete applications can be refused or returned.

Step 3: Lodge Your Application

You can apply online through the ImmiAccount portal. Ensure you attach all documents and pay the application fee ($9,365 AUD as of 2025).

Important: If applying for the onshore visa (Subclass 820), you must be in Australia on the day of submission. For offshore applications (Subclass 309), you must be outside Australia when lodging.

Step 4: Sponsor Application

Your partner will also need to complete and submit a sponsor application (usually within a few days of your visa lodgment).

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Processing times vary:

•       Subclass 820/309: ~6 to 20 months
  
•       Subclass 801/100: ~2 years after temporary visa grant

You may be asked for additional documents during this period. Keep your contact information up to date.

Step 6: Permanent Partner Visa Assessment

After two years, the Department will assess whether your relationship is ongoing and genuine before granting the permanent visa.

Common Reasons for Partner Visa Refusals

Unfortunately, Partner Visa applications can be refused due to:

• Lack of genuine relationship indicators
• Failure to meet health or character requirements
• Poorly written personal statements
• Not meeting the de facto relationship requirements
• Mistakenly submitted incorrect forms

This is why working with a professional migration agent is highly recommended to avoid costly mistakes.

Want an Easier Partner Visa Process in Australia?

At Easy Aussie Migration, we’ve helped hundreds of couples reunite and start their lives together in Australia. We understand that every relationship is unique, and we offer tailored advice and full visa assistance to give your application the best chance of success.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or ready to apply now, we’re here to guide you every steps, from documentation to submission and beyond.

👉 Contact us today for a free initial consultation and find out how we can make your Partner Visa application simple and stress free.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Partner Visa in Australia is a life changing decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the requirements, preparing your documentation carefully, and getting the right professional support, you can put yourself in the best position for a successful outcome.

If you’re serious about starting your life together in Australia then don’t risk a refusal. Let the experts handle it for you.