Applying for a Partner Visa Australia allows spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live together in Australia. This guide provides an in-depth look at the types of partner visas available, eligibility criteria, application processes, required documentation, processing times, costs, common pitfalls, and expert tips to enhance your chances of a successful application.
Types of Partner Visa Australia
Australia offers several partner visa options, depending on your relationship status and location at the time of application:
1️⃣ Onshore Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 820/801)
- Subclass 820 (Temporary): Allows you to stay in Australia temporarily while your permanent visa is processed.
- Subclass 801 (Permanent): Granted after the temporary visa, leading to permanent residency.
- Processing Time: 12–24 months.
- Government Fee: From $9,095 AUD.
2️⃣ Offshore Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 309/100)
- Subclass 309 (Temporary): Permits entry and stay in Australia while awaiting permanent visa processing.
- Subclass 100 (Permanent): Granted following the temporary visa, providing permanent residency.
- Processing Time: 14–26 months.
- Government Fee: From $9,095 AUD.
3️⃣ Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
- For individuals engaged to an Australian partner, allowing entry into Australia to marry within a specified period.
- Processing Time: 12–24 months.
- Government Fee: From $9,095 AUD.
📌 Once married, applicants must apply for a Partner Visa (820/801) to remain in Australia permanently.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a partner visa, you must meet specific requirements:
1️⃣ Relationship Status
- Married Applicants: Must have a legal marriage recognized under Australian law.
- De facto Applicants: Must demonstrate a de facto relationship for at least 12 months prior to application, unless an exemption applies.
2️⃣ Sponsorship Requirements
- Your partner must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen willing to sponsor you.
3️⃣ Age & Character Requirements
- Both partners must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Applicants must meet health and character requirements, including medical examinations and police clearances.
Application Process
1️⃣ Step-by-Step Application Guide
🔹 Step 1: Prepare Documentation
- Gather evidence supporting your relationship, including financial, social, household, and commitment aspects.
🔹 Step 2: Lodge the Application
- Onshore Applicants: Apply for Subclass 820/801 while in Australia.
- Offshore Applicants: Apply for Subclass 309/100 from outside Australia.
🔹 Step 3: Bridging Visa (For Onshore Applicants)
- Onshore applicants may receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) to remain in Australia during processing.
🔹 Step 4: Temporary Partner Visa Grant
- If approved, you’ll receive a temporary partner visa (Subclass 820 or 309).
🔹 Step 5: Permanent Partner Visa Assessment
- Approximately two years after the initial application, you’ll be assessed for the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100).
Required Documentation
Providing comprehensive evidence is crucial:
1️⃣ Identity Documents
- Passports, birth certificates, and photographs.
2️⃣ Relationship Evidence
- Financial: Joint bank accounts, shared bills, property ownership.
- Social: Photos together, invitations, social media interactions.
- Household: Shared rental agreements, utility bills.
- Commitment: Personal statements detailing your relationship history and future plans.
3️⃣ Health and Character
- Medical examination reports andpolice clearances.
Processing Times & Costs
Processing Times
📌 Partner Visa applications can take 12–26 months, depending on circumstances and application completeness.
Government Fees
📌 The standard Partner Visa application fee starts from $8,085 AUD (for both temporary and permanent stages).
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
1️⃣ Insufficient Evidence
- Many applications are refused due to lack of relationship evidence.
- ✅ Solution: Ensure you provide extensive proof covering financial, social, household, and commitment aspects.
2️⃣ Inconsistent Information
- Conflicting details in statements and documents can raise red flags.
- ✅ Solution: Double-check all forms and relationship statements for consistency.
3️⃣ Not Meeting the 12-Month De Facto Rule
- Many de facto applicants fail to meet the 12-month requirement.
- ✅ Solution: If not married, register your relationship in an Australian state or territory.
Success Stories – Real Clients, Real Results
💡 Ahmed & Sarah’s Story: Ahmed, an engineer from India, married Sarah, an Australian citizen. Concerned about delays, they sought our assistance. Our team structured their evidence, prepared their application, and within 6 months, Ahmed’s permanent residency was granted!
💡 Maria & James’ Story: Maria, a Brazilian citizen, had her first Partner Visa refused due to insufficient evidence. We restructured her case, gathered stronger proof, and secured a Subclass 801 Permanent Visa in just 12 months.
Get Expert Help for Your Partner Visa Application
Applying for a Partner Visa Australia is a detailed process requiring thorough preparation. Avoid costly mistakes and delays by consulting an experienced migration agent.
🚀 Book a Consultation Now: 🔗 https://link.simonmander.com/widget/bookings/paid-consultation-with-simon-mander
👉 Don’t risk a visa refusal – get expert migration assistance today!