Partner Visa Australia Explained

An Australian partner visa is a two-stage residency pathway for the spouse, de facto partner, or fiancé(e) of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Applicants lodge either onshore (subclass 820 → 801) or offshore (subclass 309 → 100), receive a temporary visa first, then progress to permanent residency after roughly two years if the relationship remains genuine. Government fees are around $9,095 (indicative, April 2026) and processing takes 12–24 months. This guide covers the two-stage structure, onshore vs offshore choice, evidence requirements, and when a MARA-registered agent is worth the fee.

What a Partner Visa Is

Australia's partner visa program is for spouses and de facto partners. Both onshore and offshore pathways follow a two-stage structure: a temporary visa first, then permanent assessment later if requirements continue to be met. The onshore pathway is subclass 820 (temporary) leading to 801 (permanent). The offshore pathway is subclass 309 (temporary) leading to 100 (permanent). The permanent stage is generally assessed approximately two years after the initial application.

Onshore vs Offshore

The onshore pathway usually means applying while in Australia. The offshore pathway usually means applying from outside Australia. The distinction affects practical issues like bridging visa arrangements, travel planning, and timing strategy. An important recent change: from 25 November 2023, the subclass 820 can be granted to applicants in or outside Australia. This means the traditional framing of onshore vs offshore has evolved slightly — consult an agent for current strategic advice.

What Couples Need to Show

Partner applications revolve around demonstrating the relationship is genuine and continuing. Evidence is usually gathered across four broad areas: how the couple manages finances (shared accounts, financial dependence, joint assets), the nature of the household (shared living arrangements, domestic responsibilities), social recognition of the relationship (recognition by friends, family, and community), and the nature of commitment (knowledge of each other's circumstances, future plans together). Every relationship is different, and the evidence needs to reflect your specific situation.

Why This Pathway Feels Document-Heavy

Partner visa cases involve a lot of personal evidence collected over time — relationship history, identity documents, joint commitments, statements, photos, and supporting material from different stages of the relationship. The volume can feel overwhelming, which is one reason many couples seek professional help with organising and presenting the evidence strategically.

Marriage vs De Facto

Marriage does not automatically solve the visa question. Marriage is relevant but not the only factor. De facto relationships also qualify, provided the couple can demonstrate at least 12 months of cohabitation (or hold a registered relationship or meet compelling and compassionate circumstances). In both cases, the overall evidence of a genuine relationship is what matters.

Current Costs and Processing Times

The government application charge is approximately $8,850 for the primary applicant. Agent fees range from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on complexity. Processing times for the onshore temporary stage currently range from 8 to 24 months. The permanent stage is assessed approximately two years after the initial application.

When to Get Professional Help

Many straightforward couples still choose to get help because the application is important and personal. Professional advice is more strongly recommended where facts are sensitive — complicated timelines, periods apart, previous visa issues, or uncertainty about how evidence fits together. Through Migratio, you can describe your situation and get matched with up to 3 partner visa specialists who review your case and apply to work with you.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a partner visa take?

The temporary stage currently takes 8 to 24 months. The permanent stage is assessed approximately two years after initial application.

How much does it cost in total?

Government charge: approximately $8,850. Agent fees: $2,500 to $6,000. Plus health examinations, police clearances, and translations.

Can a de facto partner apply?

Yes. De facto partners (including same-sex partners) are eligible if they can demonstrate at least 12 months of cohabitation or meet an exemption.

Do I need a migration agent?

Not always. But partner visas are evidence-heavy, and professional help is particularly valuable where the evidence is mixed or the timeline is complicated.

What is the biggest mistake couples make?

Submitting incomplete evidence. A well-prepared application is the single best way to avoid delays from requests for additional information.

Compare MARA-registered migration agents — free