How To Navigate The Australia Partner Visa Offshore Process

The Australia Partner Visa Offshore (subclasses 309 and 100) offers spouses and de-facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens living abroad a clear path to reunite and settle in Australia. This two-stage process not only leads to permanent residency but also provides rights to work, study and access Medicare.

Yet applicants often face hurdles: strict proof of genuine partnership, complex sponsorship obligations and the need to legalise documents across different jurisdictions. With government fees starting at AUD 9,095 and processing times ranging from 14 to 26 months, even minor oversights can result in costly delays.

Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step roadmap to guide you through every phase—from distinguishing Subclass 309 (the temporary partner visa) and Subclass 100 (the permanent partner visa) to organising your application materials and tracking progress in ImmiAccount. We begin by clarifying the roles and benefits of each visa subclass.

1. Understand the Difference between Subclass 309 and Subclass 100

The offshore Partner Visa process is designed as a single application that covers two separate visas: a temporary visa (subclass 309) and a permanent visa (subclass 100). You lodge both at once, pay one fee, and begin your journey with the provisional subclass 309. Once its requirements are met—typically after a two-year period—you transition to subclass 100 without having to reapply from scratch.

By breaking the pathway into these stages, the Department of Home Affairs can verify the genuineness of your relationship over time while allowing you to live and work in Australia. Understanding these distinctions at the outset will help you plan your application, avoid delays and budget accurately for fees.

Let’s break down what each subclass involves, how they complement each other, and why both are essential in your pathway to permanent residency.

1.1 Overview of Subclass 309 (Temporary Partner Visa)

Subclass 309 is your initial ticket to Australia. It’s granted offshore, meaning you must both apply from and remain outside Australia until the visa is issued. Key features include:

• The right to enter Australia and stay until a decision is made on the permanent visa (subclass 100).
• Work and study rights on par with Australian residents.
• Multiple-entry travel, so you can come and go freely while subclass 100 is pending.

Because it’s provisional, the Department will keep a close eye on your relationship evidence. If you meet the ongoing requirements—especially maintaining a genuine partnership—your subclass 309 becomes the stepping stone to permanent residency.

1.2 Overview of Subclass 100 (Permanent Partner Visa)

Subclass 100 grants you permanent residency once you’ve satisfied the evidentiary and timing conditions. Typically, you’ll be eligible about two years after lodging your combined application, though early grants can occur if you’ve been in a long-term relationship before applying. As a permanent resident, you gain:

• Indefinite right to live, work and study in Australia.
• Access to Medicare and other social security benefits.
• The ability to sponsor eligible family members.
• A clear pathway to Australian citizenship.

There is no separate fee for subclass 100 if you applied for it alongside subclass 309; you simply meet the final relationship checks and await the formal grant.

1.3 Key Benefits, Processing Times, and Fees

Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect:

• Processing times: 14–26 months (combined average for subclasses 309 and 100).
• Government fee: from AUD 9,095 for the combined application.
• No separate charge for the permanent visa (subclass 100) when lodged together.

For a deeper dive into each stage, check out Simon Mander’s comprehensive guide on the Partner Visa Offshore process.

2. Check Relationship and Partnership Requirements

Before you sketch out your application, it’s vital to make sure your partnership ticks all the Department of Home Affairs’ boxes. Whether you’re married or in a de facto relationship, meeting the requirements around legal status and genuine commitment is the cornerstone of a successful offshore partner visa application. In this section, we’ll clarify the marriage and de facto criteria, explain the 12-month cohabitation rule (and when you can sidestep it), and show how registering your relationship can fast-track that requirement.

2.1 Married vs De Facto Relationship Criteria

Australia recognises two main types of partnerships for the offshore partner visa:

• Marriage: Your marriage must be valid under Australian law. That generally means you must have had the legal capacity to marry—usually age 18 or older, or with parental consent if you were 16–17 at the time. Your marriage certificate, issued by a competent authority, is your primary proof.
• De Facto Relationship: You and your partner must be in a genuine, exclusive relationship, living together on a permanent basis. While you don’t need to have a formal registry, you’ll need to provide evidence that your lives are intertwined—shared rent or mortgage, joint bank accounts, photos of social events, and so on.

The Department assesses both types against the same “genuine and continuing” test. Choose the category that best reflects how you and your partner live, then collect the documents to back it up.

2.2 Meeting the 12-Month Cohabitation Rule or Exemptions

A de facto partner visa applicant normally must show at least 12 months of face-to-face living together immediately before lodging the application. This helps the Department confirm that your relationship is more than just a holiday romance. However, you might qualify for an exemption if any of the following apply:

• You and your partner have registered your de facto relationship with an Australian state or territory authority.
• There are compelling and compassionate circumstances (for instance, work commitments overseas, serious illness or cultural traditions) preventing you from co-living for 12 months.
• You or your partner hold—or have held—a permanent humanitarian visa, and you informed Home Affairs of your relationship before your provisional visa decision.

If one of those scenarios sounds like you, be prepared to submit the registration certificate or evidence of your exceptional circumstances alongside your application.

2.3 Registering Your Relationship

Registering a de facto relationship can shave months off your waiting period. Each Australian state and territory offers a registry (sometimes called a proof of relationship register) where you and your partner formally document your partnership. Once registered:

• The 12-month cohabitation requirement is waived.
• You receive a legally recognised relationship certificate.
• You still need to show the usual financial, household and social evidence—so keep up with joint accounts and shared bills.

Check with the registry office in your state or territory—such as the New South Wales Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages or Victoria’s Relationships Register—for their specific forms, fees and processing times. After registration, include a certified copy of your relationship certificate in your visa application.

3. Ensure Your Sponsor Meets Eligibility Criteria

Your sponsor is at the heart of a successful offshore partner visa application. Before you start gathering relationship evidence or booking health checks, make sure your Australian-based partner ticks every box. The Department of Home Affairs will scrutinise their status, character and capacity to support you. In this section, we’ll walk through the core eligibility requirements and underscore the legal obligations they must accept.

3.1 Sponsor’s Citizenship and Residency Status

To act as your sponsor, your partner must be one of the following:

• An Australian citizen
• An Australian permanent resident
• An eligible New Zealand citizen

They don’t need to hold a passport at the time of sponsorship lodgement, but they must prove their status with official documents—such as an Australian birth certificate, citizenship certificate or evidence of permanent residency. Eligible New Zealanders can provide a Special Category Visa grant letter or their foreign passport showing entry on a New Zealand citizen visa.

3.2 Character, Age, and Legal Requirements for Sponsors

Sponsorship isn’t just a formality—it carries serious legal weight. Your sponsor must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass a character assessment, including police checks for any country where they’ve lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years
• Have no convictions for child-related offences or other serious crimes

If your sponsor fails the police check or has outstanding criminal issues, their application will be refused. Encourage them to obtain all required certificates early and resolve any legal matters before you lodge.

3.3 Sponsorship Limits and Obligations

Sponsoring a partner is a long-term commitment. Your sponsor must:

• Sign a formal “Sponsorship Undertaking” committing to support you financially and ensure you don’t rely on social security payments
• Acknowledge they can sponsor only two partners in their lifetime (and only one in the past five years, unless special circumstances apply)
• Agree that the sponsorship remains in force for two years after you first arrive in Australia on the subclass 309 visa

Breaking any of these undertakings—for example, by withdrawing support or failing to notify Home Affairs of changes—can lead to cancellation of your visa. Make sure your sponsor understands these responsibilities before you begin the application.

4. Collect and Organize Your Identity and Character Documents

Gathering your identity and character documents early is one of the smartest moves you can make. Having everything at your fingertips not only keeps your application on track but also shows the Department of Home Affairs that you’re organised and serious. In the next few subsections, we’ll run through the must-have documents, point out common pitfalls and share tips for keeping your paperwork in order.

4.1 Valid Passports, Birth and Marriage Certificates

Your passport is the primary proof of identity and nationality. Make sure:

• You hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your intended date of travel.
• You provide certified copies (or notarised copies) of every relevant page: bio-data, visas, entry stamps.
• If your name has changed (for example, after marriage), you include supporting documents such as a deed poll or marriage certificate.

For your birth certificate and—if applicable—marriage certificate or de facto relationship registration:

• Request an original full-version birth certificate from the issuing authority in your home country.
• Obtain an official marriage certificate or registered relationship certificate issued by the state or territory registry.
• Submit certified translations for any document not in English (see section 4.4 for translation requirements).

Store each document in a clearly labelled folder (digital and physical) so nothing gets mixed up.

4.2 Police Clearance Certificates

Character checks are non-negotiable. You must lodge police clearance certificates from every country where you’ve lived for a total of 12 months or more in the last 10 years:

• Apply through the national police or accredited provider in each jurisdiction.
• Request a certificate that covers the entire period of residence—partial periods can lead to requests for clarification.
• Check validity windows: some certificates expire after three to six months, so time your applications close to your lodgement date.
• Keep originals and certified photocopies; you’ll need to upload the digital copy to ImmiAccount and include the originals if requested later.

4.3 Mandatory Health Examinations

A panel‐physician medical exam is required to satisfy health criteria. Here’s how to get it done smoothly:

1. Find an approved panel physician in your area via the Department’s list.
2. Book your examination well ahead of lodgement—appointments can fill up quickly.
3. Undergo the standard tests: general physical, chest X-ray, blood tests and any country-specific checks (for example, tuberculosis screening).
4. Ensure the doctor submits your results electronically to the Department of Home Affairs; do not ask for the report directly unless you need it for follow-up.

Keep the medical appointment reference number handy—you’ll need to enter it in your visa form.

4.4 Translating, Notarising and Certifying Documents

Any non-English document must be translated by a NAATI-accredited translator:

• Include the translator’s declaration, full contact details and signature on each translated page.
• Bundle the original document and its translation together in your submission.

For certified copies or notarisation:

• Have a qualified person—such as a Justice of the Peace, commissioner for oaths or solicitor—certify copies of your identity documents.
• The certifier should stamp or sign each page, write “Certified true copy of original seen” and date it.
• Check country-specific rules: some authorities insist on notarisation before legalisation (see next section for apostille/authentication).

By organising your identity papers, police checks and health records in clearly labelled folders—both digital and physical—you’ll breeze through the document upload process in ImmiAccount and minimise the risk of “please supply” letters from case officers.

5. Legalise and Authenticate Overseas Documents

Many countries require Australian visa applicants to legalise public documents—such as birth certificates, marriage certificates or police clearances—before they’ll accept them. Legalisation proves that a document issued overseas is genuine, giving the Department confidence in your evidence. Depending on where your documents originate, you’ll either obtain an apostille (for Hague Convention countries) or go through authentication (for non-Hague countries). Tackling this early helps you avoid last-minute rushes and “please supply” letters.

5.1 Determining Whether You Need an Apostille or Authentication

First, check if the document-issuing country is a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention. If it is, you only need an apostille stamp. If not, you’ll require a chain of authentications via the foreign ministry and then the Australian diplomatic mission in that country. To confirm:

• Visit the DFAT resource on apostilles and authentications for a list of Hague countries.
• Check with the issuing authority (e.g., your local registry office) whether an apostille is available.
• For non-Hague countries, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate to learn their specific authentication steps.

5.2 Steps to Obtain an Apostille or Authentication

Once you know which route applies, follow these steps:

1. Prepare your documents
   Ensure you have the original public document or a notarised copy. If translations are required, complete them beforehand (see section 4.4).

2. Submit to DFAT or Overseas Mission

   • For apostilles: Lodge your documents with DFAT in Canberra (in person or by post).
   • For non-Hague countries: First get authentication from the local foreign affairs office, then from the Australian mission overseas.

3. Pay the fee
   DFAT charges AUD 102 per document (fees may change, so confirm on the DFAT site).

4. Wait for processing
   Typical turnaround is 2–5 business days for apostilles; overseas missions may vary.

5. Collect or receive back
   Once stamped or authenticated, bundle these with your visa application pack.

5.3 Planning for Processing Delays and Fees

Legalisation can be a hidden bottleneck. Document apostille services often peak just before holiday seasons and year-end, so:

• Factor in at least two to three weeks for each apostille or embassy authentication.
• Budget for occasional courier or express-post fees if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Note that DFAT fees are CPI-indexed and may increase annually; always verify the current rate before lodging.
• Maintain a simple timeline: first apply for police clearances and translations, then move on to legalisation—this staggered approach keeps everything on track.

By understanding which route applies to your documents and priming your timeline for potential delays, you’ll keep your offshore Partner Visa application moving without unexpected holdups.

6. Compile Comprehensive Relationship Evidence

By now you’ve covered eligibility, sponsorship and document legalisation. The heart of your Partner Visa application, however, lies in presenting clear, organised proof that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. Think of this as building a convincing portfolio: group your evidence into thematic bundles, label each section, and include a brief cover note explaining what the officer will find inside. Below we break down the core categories you’ll need.

6.1 Financial and Shared Asset Documentation

Financial interdependence speaks volumes. Demonstrate that you and your partner pool resources and share major financial commitments:

• Joint bank account statements covering at least 12 months.
• Mortgage deeds or rental/lease agreements in both names.
• Shared insurance policies (health, car, home contents).
• Joint loan documents for vehicles, appliances or other significant assets.
• Records of money transfers between you—especially regular household contributions.

6.2 Household and Daily Life Evidence

Everyday living together is as persuasive as big-ticket items. Collect:

• Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, internet) addressed to both of you.
• Mail or official notices showing your joint address.
• Photographs of you sharing your home: cooking, entertaining or unwinding together.
• Statements about how you split chores or run the household (a simple one-page summary is fine).
• Copies of property tax notices or strata levies in both names, if applicable.

6.3 Social and Cultural Proof

Your social circle and activities reinforce that you operate as a couple:

• Invitations or tickets (weddings, birthdays, concerts) with both names.
• Travel itineraries, boarding passes or hotel bookings for trips taken together.
• Membership cards for clubs, gyms or community organisations you joined as a pair.
• Screenshots or printouts of social media posts tagging you both at events.
• Letters or emails from friends and family acknowledging you as a couple.

6.4 Commitment Statements and Future Plans

A chronological narrative helps the case officer see how your relationship has grown—and where it’s headed. Prepare:

• A joint statement outlining key milestones: when you met, moved in, got engaged or married, and significant life events.
• Individual letters (one from each partner) reflecting on your shared goals: plans to buy a home, start a family or pursue careers in Australia.
• Any agreements or wills that mention your partner as beneficiary.
• A timeline graphic (optional) to visualise dates and events at a glance.

By thoughtfully curating these bundles—financial, household, social and forward-looking—you’ll build a compelling picture of a genuine, continuing partnership. Label each section clearly, cross-reference documents in your cover notes, and keep digital copies in the same folder structure you’ll upload to ImmiAccount. A well-organised package minimises confusion, speeds up assessment and brings you one step closer to living together in Australia.

7. Create and Navigate Your ImmiAccount

Your ImmiAccount is the online gateway for lodging and managing your Australia Partner Visa Offshore application. Think of it as your digital filing cabinet—once you get comfortable with its layout and tools, the entire submission and tracking process becomes far less daunting. Below we’ll guide you through setting up your account, finding the key visa application sections, and ensuring your document uploads sail through without hiccups.

7.1 Setting Up Your ImmiAccount

First things first: head to the ImmiAccount login page at https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login. Click “Create an ImmiAccount” and follow these steps:

1. Enter a valid email address and choose a strong password.
2. Verify your email by clicking the link you’ll receive—keep an eye on spam folders.
3. Complete your profile by entering your name, date of birth and contact details.
4. Enable two-step authentication (2FA). You’ll need either an authenticator app or SMS codes—this extra layer keeps your application secure.

Once you’re set up, you can add family members, view pending lodgements and revisit past visa outcomes. Bookmark the ImmiAccount portal so you can dive back in quickly whenever you need to update or check your file.

7.2 Navigating the Visa Application Sections

Inside ImmiAccount, your Partner Visa Offshore application is split into logical parts. Take a moment to familiarise yourself with each:

• My Details: Fill in personal information—names, addresses, passport data.
• Sponsor Details: Enter your partner’s citizenship status, contact information and sponsorship undertaking.
• Application Details: Select Subclass 309 and Subclass 100 in the “Offshore Partner Visa” section, then answer the relationship and eligibility questions.
• Health and Character: Provide medical appointment reference numbers and upload police clearance certificates.
• Document Attachments: Upload identity, relationship and sponsor evidence in clearly labelled bundles.

Use the side-panel menu to jump between these sections. If you save progress in one area, the system will hold your entries for up to 60 days—ideal if you need to gather more paperwork before finalising your lodgement.

7.3 Best Practices for Uploading Documents

A smooth upload process hinges on good habits:

• File Formats: Stick to PDF for text documents and JPEG/PNG for photos or scans.
• File Size: Keep each file under 5 MB—large files can time out or trigger errors.
• Naming Conventions: Use a consistent pattern, for example:
– Smith_Jane_Passport.pdf
– Smith_Jane_BankStatement_Jan2025.pdf
• Bundles and Folders: Group related documents into a single PDF where possible (e.g., all birth certificates in one file) and label the bundle: “Identity Documents”.
• Checklist Review: Before hitting “Submit”, run through your personal checklist to confirm you haven’t missed any mandatory items—ImmiAccount flags missing fields, but it won’t detect a missing marriage certificate or an incorrect date.

Finally, take screenshots of your submission confirmation page and record the transaction ID for your fees. That way, if you need to reference a receipt or prove lodgement dates, you’ve got the proof on hand.

By mastering ImmiAccount—setting it up securely, moving confidently between application sections and uploading documents with precision—you’ll minimise technical hiccups and keep your partner visa journey on track. Next up, we’ll cover how to lodge your sponsorship application and what to expect from the Department’s processing timelines.

8. Lodge the Sponsorship Application

Before your offshore partner visa application can progress, your Australian-based partner must lodge a formal sponsorship application. This step demonstrates that the Department of Home Affairs has a responsible sponsor ready to support you financially and socially. Lodging the sponsorship early helps avoid delays in your subclass 309/100 process and ensures that your visa application has the necessary backing from the outset.

8.1 Completing Form 40SP (Sponsorship Application)

Form 40SP is the official sponsorship undertaking for offshore partner visas. Your sponsor will find it in their ImmiAccount under “New Application” → “Sponsorship” → “Partner (Offshore) visa”. Key sections include:

• Sponsor’s personal details: full name, date of birth, contact address and ImmiAccount ID
• Sponsor’s status: declaration of Australian citizenship, permanent residency or eligible New Zealand citizenship
• Relationship details: confirmation of the genuine and continuing nature of your partnership and the date you began living together or married
• Sponsorship history: disclosure of any previous sponsorships and the dates they were granted

Accuracy is crucial—any mismatch between Form 40SP and your partner visa application can trigger requests for clarification or even a referral to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

8.2 Attaching Sponsor Documents

Alongside Form 40SP, your sponsor must upload certified evidence of their eligibility:

• Proof of status: a copy of their Australian passport bio-data page, citizenship certificate or permanent residency evidence letter
• Recent police clearance: a character check from every country where they’ve lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years
• Identification: a certified copy of their driver’s licence or national ID card (if applicable)
• Evidence of relationship: while the bulk of relationship proof comes from you, sponsors sometimes include supporting photos or joint correspondence to reinforce the bond

Each file should be in PDF or JPEG format, clearly named (for example, Lee_John_AusPass.pdf, Lee_John_PoliceCheck.pdf) and under 5 MB to ensure smooth upload.

8.3 Sponsorship Approval Process and Timeframes

Once lodged, sponsorship applications are processed on a priority basis but can take up to 12 weeks, depending on case complexity and any additional checks needed. To monitor progress:

1. Log into ImmiAccount and select the “Sponsorship Applications” tab.
2. View the “Status” column to see if the sponsorship is “Received”, “In Progress” or “Approved”.
3. Check the “Correspondence” section for any requests for further information—respond promptly to avoid hold-ups.

When sponsorship is approved, your visa application will automatically move forward in the queue. If the sponsorship is refused, your partner will receive written reasons and may have limited rights to appeal. Keeping the sponsorship application accurate and complete from the start is your best defence against unexpected refusals.

9. Lodge Your Offshore Partner Visa Application

Now that your sponsorship is approved and your documents are organised, it’s time to lodge the combined Subclass 309/100 application. This step locks in your pathway to Australia. You’ll select both the temporary and permanent visas in ImmiAccount, attach every piece of mandatory evidence in clearly labelled bundles, then perform a final review and hit “Submit.” Follow these three sub-steps to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

9.1 Choosing Subclasses 309 and 100 in the Portal

1. Log into ImmiAccount and click “New Application” → “Visitor, Student, Family and Other visas”.
2. Scroll to “Offshore Partner Visa”. You’ll see two checkboxes:
   • Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 309)
   • Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 100)
3. Tick both boxes. Even though you’ll only hold subclass 309 initially, ticking subclass 100 flags your intent and waives any second-application fee.
4. Confirm your selections and proceed to the next screen, where you’ll answer relationship and eligibility questions.

9.2 Attaching All Mandatory Evidence Bundles

ImmiAccount groups document uploads by category. Stick to the following bundles and label each file clearly:

• Identity documents: passport bio-data pages, birth/marriage certificates, translations.
• Relationship evidence: financial, household, social and commitment bundles (see Section 6).
• Sponsor evidence: approved Form 40SP, sponsor’s citizenship/PR proof, police check.
• Health and character: medical reference number, police certificates for all jurisdictions.

Best practice: merge related pages into a single PDF (e.g. Identity_Docs.pdf) and keep each file under 5 MB. Use a naming convention like Surname_Type_Date.pdf so you can spot a missing upload at a glance.

9.3 Final Review, Consent and Submission

Before you click “Lodge Application”, run through this quick checklist:

• All personal and sponsor details match exactly (names, dates, addresses).
• Every mandatory question has an answer—no blanks or “N/A” where a response is required.
• Document bundles are complete, correctly named and in the right upload slots.
• You’ve read and ticked the consent and declaration statements (including the privacy disclaimer).

Once everything checks out, submit your application. Immediately take a screenshot of the confirmation page, note down the Transaction Reference Number and the timestamp. These records become vital if you need to prove lodgement dates or follow up with the Department. With that done, you can sit back and track your application progress in ImmiAccount.

10. Pay Visa Application Fees and Estimate Total Costs

Budgeting accurately for your offshore Partner Visa means looking beyond the headline fee. You’ll need to cover the government application charge as well as a handful of ancillary costs—medical exams, police checks and certified translations. Laying out these expenses in advance can save you from last-minute scrambles and unwelcome surprises.

10.1 Government Visa Application Charges

When you lodge subclasses 309 and 100 together, you pay a single base fee. Any dependents added to your application will incur an extra charge.

• Base application fee (combined 309/100): From AUD 9,095
• Additional applicant (18 and over): Approximately 50% of base fee (≈ AUD 4,550)
• Additional applicant (under 18): Approximately 25% of base fee (≈ AUD 2,275)

Note: All fees are set by the Department of Home Affairs and may rise with annual indexation. Always check the latest charges before you lodge.

10.2 Ancillary Costs: Medicals, Police Checks, Translations

On top of visa fees, these items can add several hundred dollars per person:

• Health examinations: AUD 300–400 per applicant (panel physician fees vary by location)
• Police clearance certificates: AUD 50–100 each (cost depends on issuing jurisdiction)
• Document translations: AUD 40–60 per page (NAATI-accredited translators only)

Tip: Add a 10–15% buffer to your budget for unexpected extras—rush appointments, courier charges or last-minute certification.

10.3 Payment Methods and Currency Considerations

Most applicants pay their visa fee online through ImmiAccount using:

• Credit card (Visa/Mastercard): Instant payment, but watch out for foreign transaction fees.
• BPAY: Available for Australian bank accounts.

If you’re outside Australia you might need an international bank transfer (telegraphic transfer). In that case:

• Allow extra processing days (often 3–5 business days) for funds to clear.
• Factor in your bank’s conversion rate markup—usually 1–3% above the interbank rate.

By mapping out every cost—from the AUD 9,095 base fee to that extra translation page—you’ll avoid budget blow-outs and keep your offshore Partner Visa application on track.

11. Track Processing Times and Case Status

Tracking your application helps you stay informed, set realistic expectations and spot potential issues early. While partner visa offshore processing can range widely, proactive monitoring lets you catch any “please supply” requests or delays and respond quickly. In the following subsections, we’ll explain how to interpret published timeframes, where to find your case status in ImmiAccount, and the best ways to communicate with the Department of Home Affairs if you need extra clarity.

11.1 Understanding Published Processing Time Ranges

The Department of Home Affairs publishes processing benchmarks so you know roughly where your application sits. These are expressed as percentage points: for example, 25% of applications are finalised by a certain timeframe, 50% by another, and so on through the 90th percentile. For offshore Partner Visas (subclasses 309/100), you might see that:

• 25% of applications are finalised in around 10–12 months
• 50% in 14–16 months
• 75% by 22–24 months
• 90% by 26–28 months

Keep in mind that these figures are global averages. Your actual wait can be shorter or longer depending on factors like completeness of your documents, the current caseload, priority claims (e.g., aged or compassionate cases) and any departmental audits. Use the Department’s Global Visa Processing Times tool to check the latest benchmarks and note the date you last viewed the data.

11.2 Checking Your Status in ImmiAccount

ImmiAccount is your single source of truth for case updates. To view real-time status:

1. Log in to ImmiAccount and go to the “View submitted applications” tab.
2. Locate your Partner Visa (subclasses 309/100) entry and check the “Status” column. Common statuses include:
   • Received (application lodged, fee paid)
   • In progress (under assessment)
   • Additional information requested (action required)
   • Approved or Granted
3. Click on the application to see the “Correspondence” section. This lists any messages or requests from the Department, along with dates and deadlines.
4. If you have legal or migration agent representation, ensure they are added to your ImmiAccount so they receive the same notifications.

Set a calendar reminder to check ImmiAccount monthly. Regular reviews will help you pick up any missing document requests and submit them within required deadlines.

11.3 Communicating with the Department of Home Affairs

If your application exceeds published timeframes or you receive an ambiguous status, you can reach out to the Department for clarification:

• Web form: Use the Home Affairs online enquiry form to submit a case-specific question. Include your Transaction Reference Number (TRN), date of lodgement and full name to get a focused response.
• Phone: From the Philippines, call the international line on +61 2 6196 0196 (standard overseas call rates apply). Have your TRN and passport details ready.
• Email: If you’re represented by a registered migration agent, they can email the Department directly using your client authorisation.

When you contact them, be clear and concise: state your TRN, explain your concern, mention the processing benchmark you’re referencing, and ask for an estimated decision date. Keep records of all communications—screenshots of web form submissions or call reference numbers—to ensure you have a trail if you need to follow up.

By staying on top of published processing times, monitoring your ImmiAccount regularly, and knowing how to raise inquiries effectively, you’ll navigate the waiting period with confidence and keep your offshore Partner Visa application moving forward.

12. Respond to Requests for Additional Information

Even the most meticulously prepared offshore partner visa application can attract follow-up questions from the Department of Home Affairs. These “please supply” or “request for further information” notices are par for the course. The key is to treat them as opportunities to strengthen your case, rather than obstacles. Remember that timely, clear and complete responses not only keep your application on track but also signal to case officers that you’re organised and responsive.

12.1 Typical Requests from Case Officers

Case officers often ask for extra documentation to fill gaps or clarify details. You might be asked for:

• More photographs: snapshots of shared living spaces, social occasions or travel together.
• Updated police clearances: if your original certificate has expired or you’ve lived somewhere new for more than 12 months.
• Additional affidavits or statutory declarations: from friends or family vouching for your relationship.
• Fresh translations or notarised copies: if the originals were unclear or lacked proper certification.
• Confirmation of legalisation: apostille or authentication stamps on documents you thought were complete.

These requests are usually specific and list a deadline. Don’t ignore requests for minor details—sometimes a single missing signature or a blurred scan can stall your file for months.

12.2 Preparing Supplementary Documents Quickly

Speed is of the essence when you see “Additional Information Requested” in ImmiAccount. To dodge last-minute scrambles:

• Maintain a “Pending Docs” folder: keep pre-translated, pre-notarised copies of all key documents, so you can pull them out at a moment’s notice.
• Build a trusted network: know the nearest NAATI translator, Justice of the Peace or panel physician who can turn around requests on short notice.
• Use digital checklists: track what you’ve already submitted, what’s on deck and what needs apostilling.
• Budget for express services: reserve a small fund for courier or expedited DFAT legalisation if your deadline is tight.

By front-loading these preparations, you’ll transform a panic-inducing request into a routine update.

12.3 Meeting Deadlines to Avoid Refusal

Every request from the Department includes a submission window—often 28 days or less. If you miss this deadline, your application may be refused, and you’ll lose your lodgement date advantage. To stay on top of due dates:

• Turn on email and SMS notifications in ImmiAccount so you hear about requests instantly.
• Add each deadline to a shared calendar (with reminders one week and 48 hours before).
• Upload documents well ahead of the cut-off: aim for at least five business days early, to allow for file-size hiccups or system outages.
• Save receipts and confirmation screenshots: they’re your proof that you met the deadline, should any dispute arise.

In the fast-moving world of partner visas, prompt and accurate responses to “please supply” letters can make the difference between an approval and a refusal. Stay organised, stay proactive, and you’ll navigate these checkpoints with confidence.

13. Transition from Subclass 309 to Subclass 100

Once you’ve held your temporary Partner Visa (subclass 309) for the mandatory period and met all ongoing obligations, it’s time to step up to the permanent stage—Subclass 100. This transition isn’t a new “application” per se; instead, you’ll provide the updated evidence Home Affairs requires to confirm your relationship remains genuine and that you still meet health and character standards. Knowing exactly when and how to complete this final step can save you headaches and keep your pathway to permanent residency moving smoothly.

13.1 Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 100

To qualify for Subclass 100, you must:

• Continue your genuine and ongoing relationship: Home Affairs wants reassurance that your partnership hasn’t drifted apart.
• Comply with all Australian laws and visa conditions during your subclass 309 period.
• Maintain health and character eligibility: if your medical or police checks are older than the Department’s validity window (usually 12–24 months), be prepared to refresh them.

If any of these criteria aren’t met—for example, a serious criminal conviction occurs or your relationship ends without exceptional circumstances—you may lose eligibility for permanent residency under Subclass 100.

13.2 Timing Your Application: Two-Year Landmark

The clock for Subclass 100 eligibility starts ticking on the date you lodged your combined 309/100 application. In most cases, you can lodge your permanent stage around two years after that date. For instance, if you submitted your offshore application on 1 July 2023, you’ll be eligible to provide your Subclass 100 evidence from 1 July 2025.

• Early grants: If you and your partner had been in a long-term relationship before lodging—generally three years or more—Home Affairs may fast-track your permanent grant immediately after Subclass 309.
• Submitting evidence: You do not need to start a fresh application. Instead, wait for the Department’s invite in ImmiAccount to supply your Subclass 100 documentation, which usually arrives a few weeks before your two-year anniversary.

Mark your calendar and set reminders around this two-year milestone. Proactive timing ensures you’ll be ready to submit updated proof the moment the Department requests it.

13.3 Final Documentation and Interview Preparation

When Home Affairs asks for Subclass 100 evidence, you’ll typically need to refresh or add to your existing relationship portfolio:

• Updated relationship statements: a brief joint statement covering milestones and shared plans since your Subclass 309 lodgement date.
• Recent photographs: images of you and your partner together—travel selfies, family gatherings or day-to-day moments—to show continuity.
• Refreshed financial and household evidence: joint bank statements, lease agreements or utility bills from the past 12 months.
• New health or character checks (if the originals are out of date): panel-physician medicals and police clearances within the Department’s validity period.

Occasionally, you may be invited to a phone or video interview. Treat this as a friendly chat rather than a grilling—be honest, keep your answers concise, and refer to your documented evidence. With your updated documents organised and a clear understanding of your relationship story, you’ll be well placed to secure your permanent Partner Visa (subclass 100) and start your new chapter in Australia.

14. Navigate an Appeal at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal

Even with a meticulously prepared offshore partner visa application, you may face a refusal or visa cancellation. The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) offers a merits review of such decisions, meaning an independent officer considers the facts, the law and what’s “fair and just.” While it’s always better to get it right the first time, knowing how to mount an AAT appeal can be vital if things go off track.

14.1 When You Can Appeal and Time Limits

If the Department of Home Affairs refuses your offshore Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) or cancels your visa, you normally have 21 days from the date of refusal or cancellation to lodge an AAT application. Missing this window usually means losing your right to a merits review. In some rare circumstances—such as where there are exceptional and compelling reasons—you can apply for an extension, but these are granted only sparingly. Always check your refusal letter for the exact deadlines and ensure your appeal is lodged in time.

14.2 AAT Appeal Process and Procedures

The appeal journey at the AAT generally follows these stages:

1. Application for Review
   Lodge your appeal online via the AAT portal and pay the review fee. This fee is often refundable if the Tribunal finds in your favour.

2. Preliminary Assessment
   The AAT registry assigns your case to the Migration and Refugee Division. You’ll receive a case number and information on the next steps.

3. Directions Hearing
   A Tribunal Member outlines timelines for submitting evidence, witness statements and any expert reports. You and the Department exchange documents in advance.

4. Merits Hearing
   At the hearing—often by phone or video—both you (or your migration agent) and the Department present reasons why the visa should or shouldn’t be granted. The Member asks questions, considers new or updated evidence and makes a fresh decision.

5. Decision
   Within weeks, the AAT issues written reasons. If successful, your visa application is remitted to the Department with instructions to grant the visa. If refused again, you may have limited options in the Federal Court on points of law, but no further merits review.

14.3 AAT Case Volumes and Processing Times

Understanding the AAT’s workload and timelines helps manage expectations. In the 2021–22 AAT Annual Report, the Migration and Refugee Division recorded 20,936 lodgements. On average, matters reached their last alternative dispute resolution (ADR) event in 135 days. While some appeals are decided faster—particularly clear-cut partner visa cases—others can take longer depending on complexity and scheduling. For up-to-date statistics, refer to the AAT Annual Report 2021–22.

Your Path Forward

You’ve now navigated each crucial phase of the offshore Partner Visa journey: from verifying eligibility and partnership criteria, gathering and legalising documents, lodging your ImmiAccount application and sponsorship, to tracking progress, responding to requests and transitioning from subclass 309 to subclass 100. You even know what to do if things go sideways and you need to appeal at the AAT. By breaking the process into bite-sized steps, you keep surprises to a minimum and maintain momentum toward your new life in Australia.

Organisation is your best ally: use clear checklists, set calendar reminders, group documents in thematic bundles and allow time buffers for legalisation or health checks. Starting early and staying on top of deadlines means you’ll dodge avoidable delays and keep your application marching forward. And remember, minor oversights—like a missing signature or an expired police clearance—can stall your progress for months.

While this guide lays out the road map, every migration journey has its unique twists and turns. For complex cases—compassionate circumstances, long-distance relationships, or appeals—you’ll benefit from expert insights and tailored strategies. That’s where professional assistance makes all the difference, helping you avoid pitfalls and lock in your best possible outcome.

Ready for personalised support? Let the team at Simon Mander Consulting put their 22+ years of migration law expertise to work for you. Whether you’re just starting or you need help at a critical juncture, their proven track record and hands-on approach will keep your application on track and give you peace of mind every step of the way.

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