live in australia with your partner
Partner Migration to Australia
Reunite and build your future in Australia with a partner visa for spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents.
Partner Migration
Partner visas allow the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. These visas are part of Australia’s family migration program and focus on genuine relationships.
This pathway is for couples who are in a committed relationship and want to live together in Australia—whether they are already in Australia or applying from overseas. The program supports family reunification by allowing couples to build their lives together in Australia under a structured and regulated visa process.
4 Main Aspects of a Partner Visa Application
Partner visa applications are not just about proving a relationship—they are assessed across multiple key areas to confirm the relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Financial Aspects of the Relationship
How you and your partner manage your finances as a couple. It may include shared bank accounts, joint expenses, financial support, or major purchases made together.
Strong financial evidence shows interdependence and a shared life, which is a key indicator of a genuine relationship.
Nature of the Household
This focuses on your living arrangements and how you share responsibilities at home. Evidence may include joint leases, utility bills, or statements describing how household duties are divided.
Even if you are not living together full-time, you can still demonstrate this aspect through explanations and supporting documentation.
Social Aspects of the Relationship
This considers how your relationship is viewed by others and your involvement as a couple in social settings. Evidence may include photos together, travel history, invitations, or statements from friends and family.
Showing that your relationship is recognised publicly helps demonstrate authenticity beyond just private arrangements.
Nature of Commitment to Each Other
This assesses your long-term intentions as a couple, including emotional support, future plans, and the overall seriousness of your relationship.
Evidence may include communication records, personal statements, or plans such as living arrangements, travel, or future goals together.
VISA OPTIONS
Choose the Right Partner Visa Pathway
Onshore Partner Visa
Subclass 820 → Subclass 801
What it is:
Apply while in Australia
Structure:
Temporary visa subclass 820 leading to permanent visa subclass 801.
Key Benefit:
Stay in Australia during processing.
Best for:
Applicants already in Australia.
Read more →
Offshore Partner Visa
Subclass 309 → Subclass 100
What it is:
Apply from outside Australia
Structure:
Temporary visa 309 leading to permanent visa subclass 100.
Key Benefit:
Direct pathway to PR through 2-stage process.
Best for:
Applicants outside Australia.
Read more →
Prospective Marriage Visa
Subclass 300
What it is:
For engaged couples planning to marry in Australia.
Key Benefit:
Enter Australia and marry your partner.
Next Step:
Apply for a partner visa after marriage.
Best for:
Couples not yet married or de facto.
Read more →
IS THIS VISA RIGHT FOR YOU?
Who Can Apply
Basic Eligibility Profile
- Married or in a de facto relationship
- Partner is an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen
- Able to prove a genuine and ongoing relationship
- Meet health and character requirements
Common Applicant Types:
- Married couples
- Long-term de facto partners
- Engaged couples (subclass 300 pathway)
- Couples already living together or in a long-distance relationship
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?
Basic Requirements
Core Requirements
- Genuine and continuing relationship
- Sponsorship by an eligible partner
- Meet health and character requirements
- Meet visa-specific eligibility criteria
Supporting Documents (Examples)
- Relationship evidence (photos, chats, joint finances)
- Marriage certificate or proof of de facto relationship
- Identity documents
- Police clearance
- Medical results
Special Conditions to Note
- De facto relationships typically require at least 12 months (unless exempt)
- Ongoing relationship must be proven again for PR stage
- Sponsorship limitations may apply
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS
How it Works
Step 1
Check Your Eligibility
Confirm your relationship and visa pathway
Step 2
prepare strong evidence
Gather documents proving your relationship
Step 3
lodge your application
Submit combined visa (temporary + permanent stage)
Step 4
temporary visa assessment
Receive subclass 820 (onshore) or subclass 309 (offshore).
Step 5
permanent stage assessment
After the required period, progress to subclass 801 (onshore) or subclass 100 (offshore)
Step 6
final decision
Receive your permanent residency to Australia
Time & Costs
Processing Timeframes
Processing times vary depending on application complexity and case volume.
Government Fees
Partner visas involve significant government fees due to the combined application process.
Additional Costs to Consider
Medical Examinations
Police Clearance certificates
Document preparation
GET IN TOUCH
Ready to start your migration journey?
Complete the form and our team will get in touch with you as soon as possible to assist with your enquiry. We’re here to provide clear guidance, answer your questions, and help you understand your options every step of the way. All initial consultations are completely obligation-free, giving you the confidence to explore your next steps with no pressure.