Partner Visa Australia: A Complete Guide
Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100): Requirements, Process and Eligibility
The Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100) allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
This visa is designed for couples in a genuine and continuing relationship who want to apply for a partner visa in Australia and build their life together. It includes both onshore and offshore partner visa options, with a clear pathway to permanent residency in Australia.
With the support of a Registered Migration Agent, you can better understand partner visa requirements, eligibility criteria, and the application process to help achieve a successful outcome.
Partner Visa Australia: Onshore vs Offshore Options
When applying for a Partner Visa Australia, your location determines which visa pathway you will follow.
Onshore Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 820/801)
The onshore partner visa is for applicants who are already in Australia. This visa process includes two stages:
Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820)
Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)
Offshore Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 309/100)
The offshore partner visa is for applicants applying from outside Australia.
Once the Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309) is granted, the applicant can enter Australia and later apply for the Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100).
Prospective Marriage Visa Australia (Subclass 300)
The Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) allows individuals who are engaged to travel to Australia to marry their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen sponsor.
After marriage, the applicant can apply for an onshore partner visa Australia.
What is the Partner Visa Australia?
The Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 820/801) is a two-stage visa pathway that allows partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live together in Australia.
Partner Visa Process Australia
The partner visa process in Australia generally works as follows:
Apply for the Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820) while in Australia
After assessment, the applicant may be granted the temporary visa
Around two years later, the applicant becomes eligible for the Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)
Once granted, the visa holder becomes an Australian Permanent Resident
Temporary Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 820)
The Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820) is the first stage of the partner visa application.
Applicants must be in Australia when applying and also when the visa is granted. This visa allows the applicant to remain in Australia while the permanent partner visa is processed.
Applicants are typically granted a Bridging Visa, allowing them to stay lawfully in Australia during the partner visa processing period.
This stage allows couples to continue living together and provide additional evidence of their relationship if required.
Permanent Partner Visa Australia (Subclass 801)
The Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801) is the second stage of the partner visa pathway.
This stage is usually assessed around two years after the initial partner visa application. During this time, the Department of Home Affairs reviews whether the relationship is still genuine and ongoing.
Once granted, the visa holder becomes a Permanent Resident of Australia, with full rights to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
Why Apply with a Registered Migration Agent?
Applying for a Partner Visa Australia requires meeting strict eligibility requirements and submitting strong evidence of your relationship.
A Registered Migration Agent can help you:
Understand partner visa requirements clearly
Navigate the partner visa application process
Avoid common mistakes or delays
Improve your chances of a successful outcome
Apply for a Partner Visa Australia
Applying for a partner visa in Australia is an important step toward building your future together.
Start your Partner Visa Australia application today and take the next step toward living together in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Partner Visa Australia?
The Partner Visa Australia allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
What is the difference between Subclass 820 and 801?
Subclass 820 is the temporary partner visa, while Subclass 801 is the permanent partner visa granted after the relationship is reassessed.
What is the difference between onshore and offshore partner visas?
Onshore partner visas (820/801) are applied for within Australia, while offshore partner visas (309/100) are applied for outside Australia.
How long does the partner visa process take?
The permanent stage is usually assessed around two years after the initial application.
What is a Bridging Visa?
A Bridging Visa allows applicants to stay lawfully in Australia while their partner visa application is being processed.