Australia is a land of opportunity, with stunning landscapes, a vibrant culture, and a welcoming community. For many people around the world, Australia is the ideal destination to build a new life and create a better future. If you are in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a partner visa, which can open up a world of possibilities for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of partner visas available, the eligibility requirements, and the application process. We’ll also provide tips and insights to help you prepare a successful application and increase your chances of being granted a partner visa.
We’ll cover topics such as:
- The different types of partner visas and their respective requirements
- Eligibility criteria, including evidence of a genuine relationship
- The application process, including timelines, fees, and documentation requirements
- Common pitfalls and mistakes to avoid when applying for a partner visa
- Tips and tricks to help you prepare a strong application and increase your chances of success
By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of what it takes to apply for a partner visa and the benefits it can bring. Whether you’re planning to join your partner in Australia, or already living together, this blog will provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you unlock your life together in Australia.
To make it easier to break down the different visa types, we have categorized the Australian visa into two categories: Onshore and Offshore applicants.
Onshore Partner Visas:
If you are an eligible partner already living in Australia, this visa category is for you. Onshore partner visas are further classified into two types:
Subclass 820- Temporary Partner Visa
This is a temporary visa that allows partners of Australian permanent residents, citizens, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia while their permanent visa application is being processed. It is the first step towards qualifying for the permanent partner visa subclass 801. This visa is unique in the sense, applicants would need to apply for both subclass 820 and subclass 801 visas in the same application.
This subclass of visas is a great way to build a life in Australia with your loved one temporarily until your permanent visa is processed.
Subclass 801- Permanent Partner Visa
This is a permanent visa that allows the partners of Australian permanent residents, citizens, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. To apply for this visa, the applicant must already possess a temporary partner visa (subclass 820).
Subclass 100-Partner (Migrant) Visa
The permanent migrant partner visa subclass 100 allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia permanently. This visa is typically granted to those who already hold a temporary partner visa subclass 309.
Offshore Partner Visas:
If you are an eligible partner living outside Australia, this visa category is for you. Offshore partner visas can also be further classified into two types:
Subclass 309- Partner (Provisional) Visa
Australia offers a provisional visa that allows the de facto partner or spouse of an Australian permanent resident, citizen, or eligible New Zealand citizen to travel to and live in Australia temporarily.
Applicants must be outside Australia when applying for the visa and when it gets granted. The visa is temporary until a permanent visa (subclass 100) is finalized.
Subclass 100- Partner (Migrant) Visa
Australia offers a prospective Marriage Visa that allows people who plan to marry an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to come to Australia. The visa enables the holder to stay in the country for 9-15 months to get married to their partner.
Applicants must be outside Australia when applying for the visa and when it gets granted. Once married, they can apply for a Partner Visa subclass 820 and 801 to stay in Australia.
To make it easier for our readers to navigate through the different visa categories and know more about their eligibility criteria, documents required, cost, processing time, and more, we have created a table below.
|
Visa Type |
Eligibility Criteria |
Documents Required |
Cost |
Processing Time
|
Entitlements While Visa Application is Being Processed
|
|
Temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820)-For Onshore Applicants |
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 820 |
Documents Required for Subclass 820 |
AUD 8,085 for most applicants. AUD 1,350 for Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) |
25% of applications: 6 Months 50% of applications: 9 Months 75% of applications: 18 Months 90% of applications: 37 Months |
Live, work, and study in Australia during the processing of your permanent Partner visa Unlimited travel to and from Australia Eligible to attend free English language classes provided by the Adult Migrant English Program Ability to apply for access to Australia’s public healthcare scheme, Medicare. |
|
Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801)-For Onshore Applicants |
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 801 |
The fee for this visa will already have been paid for when the applicant makes a combined application for a temporary and permanent partner visa. |
25% of applications: 6 Months 50% of applications: 11 Months 7% of applications: 156 Months 90% of applications: 25 Months |
The freedom to study, work, and live in Australia indefinitely. The ability to sponsor eligible family members to come to Australia. The opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible. |
|
|
Partner Provisional Visa (subclass 100)-For Onshore Applicants |
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 100 |
Documents required for Subclass 100 |
The fee for this visa will already have been paid for when the applicant makes a combined application for temporary and permanent partner visa. |
25% of applications: 5 Months 50% of applications: 12 Months 75% of applications: 17 Months 90% of applications: 31 Months |
Live, work, and study in Australia for an unlimited time. Sponsor eligible family members to come to Australia. Apply for Australian citizenship if you meet the eligibility criteria. |
|
Partner Provisional Visa (subclass 309)-For Offshore Applicants |
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 309 |
Documents Required for Partner Provisional Visa (subclass 309) |
From AUD 8,085 |
25% of applications: 4 Months 50% of applications: 8 Months 75% of applications: 15 Months 90% of applications: 30 Months |
Live, work, and study in Australia while waiting for your permanent Partner visa to be processed. Travel to and from Australia as many times as you want. If eligible, attend free English language classes provided by the Adult Migrant English Program. Apply for access to Australia’s public health care scheme, Medicare |
|
Prospective Marriage V)-For Offshore Applicantsisa (subclass 300 |
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 300 |
Documents Required for Subclass 300 |
From AUD 8,085 |
25% of applications: 5 Months 50% of applications: 9 Months 75% of applications: 19 Months 90% of applications: 35 Months |
The visa allows the applicant to stay in Australia for a duration ranging from 9 to 15 months after being granted the visa. The applicant is permitted to work and study in Australia during their stay. |
Source: Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
Tips for Applying for a Partner Visa:
- Make sure you meet all of the eligibility criteria before you apply.
- Gather all of the required documents.
- Complete the application form carefully.
- Pay the application fee.
- Attend your visa interview.
- Be patient. The processing time for a partner visa can take several months.
Applying for a partner visa can be a complex process. However, it’s worth it if you’re looking to live and work in Australia permanently. If you have any questions, be sure to contact a registered migration agent.
Willimes Smith
