Reuniting with a loved one in a new country is a dream many couples share. If your partner is living in Australia and you want to join them, the Partner Visa Australia might be your best option. This visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live and build a life together in Australia.
However, the process can be complex. From eligibility criteria and required documentation to costs and processing times, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Australian Partner Visa.
What is a Partner Visa Australia?
The partner visa Australia is a type of family visa designed for people who are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an eligible Australian partner. It’s a pathway to live permanently in Australia and eventually become an Australian citizen.
The visa process is typically split into two stages:
-
Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/309) – lets you stay in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
-
Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100) – granted after about two years, provided the relationship continues.
-
Subclass 820/801: For those applying inside Australia
-
Subclass 309/100: For those applying outside Australia
Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa Australia?
To be eligible for a partner visa in Australia, you must meet the following requirements:
-
Be married or in a de facto relationship with an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
-
Be in a genuine and continuing relationship.
-
Be living together or have plans to live together permanently.
-
Meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
Marriage or de facto?
-
If married: Your marriage must be legally valid in Australia.
-
If in a de facto relationship: You must have been in a relationship for at least 12 months (unless there are special circumstances).
These are the core partner visa Australia requirements you need to satisfy. Failing to provide adequate evidence of your relationship is one of the most common reasons for visa refusals.
Documents You’ll Need
A successful partner visa Australia application depends heavily on the quality of your evidence. Here’s a quick list of documents you’ll likely need:
-
Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)
-
Marriage certificate or de facto relationship evidence
-
Proof of living together (lease, joint bank accounts, utility bills)
-
Statements from friends and family confirming your relationship
-
Police clearance certificates from every country you’ve lived in
-
Health examination results
It’s important that your documents show your relationship is real and long-lasting.
Partner Visa Australia Cost
One of the first questions couples ask is: How much does a partner visa for Australia cost?
As of 2025, the partner visa Australia cost is:
-
AUD $8,850 for the main applicant
-
AUD $4,430 for each dependent over 18
-
AUD $2,215 for each dependent under 18
These charges are paid to the Department of Home Affairs when you lodge your application. The fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is refused.
Additional costs may include:
-
Medical checks
-
Police checks
-
Document translations
-
Migration agent or legal fees (if you choose to get professional help)
So, while the cost may seem high, keep in mind that this visa leads to permanent residency in Australia—a life-changing benefit.
Partner Visa Australia Processing Time
Visa processing is not always fast, and partner visas are no exception. Here’s what you can expect in terms of partner visa Australia processing time:
-
Subclass 820 (onshore temporary): 21–28 months
-
Subclass 801 (onshore permanent): 12–24 months after the 820
-
Subclass 309 (offshore temporary): 12–20 months
-
Subclass 100 (offshore permanent): 12–24 months after the 309
The Department of Home Affairs handles each application on a case-by-case basis. You can speed up your processing by submitting a complete and well-documented application.
Can You Work While on a Partner Visa?
Yes! Once your temporary partner visa is granted, you can:
-
Live and work in Australia
-
Enroll in Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
-
Study (but without access to government funding)
Once you receive the permanent partner visa, you’ll enjoy almost all the same rights as other permanent residents in Australia.
Using a Migration Agent for Partner Visa Australia
Applying for a partner visa can be overwhelming. That’s why many people turn to a migration agent for partner visa applications. These professionals are registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) and know the system inside out.
Benefits of using a registered migration agent:
-
They ensure your application meets all partner visa Australia requirements
-
Help you gather and organize your documents
-
Reduce your chances of delays or rejection
-
Keep you updated throughout the visa process
Although it adds to your upfront costs, hiring a migration agent can save you time, stress, and possibly even money in the long run.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
-
Be honest and consistent: Any inconsistencies can raise red flags.
-
Document everything: From joint travel to shared financial accounts, all evidence matters.
-
Include detailed personal statements: Both partners should write relationship statements that align and show depth.
-
Get legal help if needed: Especially if your relationship has complex aspects like previous marriages, visa cancellations, or time apart.
What Happens After You Get Your Visa?
Once you receive your Partner Visa Australia, you can:
-
Live in Australia with your partner
-
Work full-time
-
Access public healthcare
-
Enroll in education
-
Apply for Australian citizenship (after a qualifying period)
Your relationship with Australia officially begins, giving you stability and a future full of opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Apply for the partner visa Australia pathway is one of the most meaningful migration options available, as it’s based on love and commitment. While the process may be long, costly, and document-heavy, the outcome is worth it: the ability to live in Australia with your partner permanently.
If you’re planning to apply, make sure you understand the partner visa Australia requirements, get your documents in order, and consider professional assistance if needed. It’s not just a visa—it’s a life-changing decision for you and your partner.
