Understanding Australian Partner Visas

The Australian partner visa program recognizes genuine relationships and provides a pathway to permanent residency for partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents. There are several visa options depending on your circumstances.

What Is a Partner Visa?

A partner visa allows you to:

• Live permanently in Australia with your partner
• Work and study without restrictions
• Access Medicare and social services
• Sponsor other family members
• Apply for Australian citizenship after 4 years
• Travel in and out of Australia

Who Can Sponsor You?

Your sponsor must be:

• Australian citizen
• Australian permanent resident
• Eligible New Zealand citizen (for some visas)
• At least 18 years old
• Able to meet financial requirements

Types of Partner Visas

Australia offers several partner visa options depending on your relationship status and location:

Onshore Visas (Applied from within Australia):

• Subclass 820: Partner visa (temporary)
• Subclass 801: Partner visa (permanent)

Offshore Visas (Applied from outside Australia):

• Subclass 309: Partner visa (temporary)
• Subclass 100: Partner visa (permanent)

Other Partner Visas:

• Subclass 300: Prospective marriage visa
• Subclass 461: New Zealand citizen family relationship visa

2026 Changes to Partner Visas

Several important changes and updates affect partner visa applications in 2026.

Key Changes for 2026

1. Processing Times Remain Long

• Onshore 820/801: 12-24 months (some cases longer)
• Offshore 309/100: 18-36 months
• No significant improvement expected in 2026

2. Visa Fees Remain Stable

• Single visa fee: AUD $9,365
• Includes both temporary and permanent stages
• No fee increase announced for 2026

3. Financial Requirements Unchanged

• Sponsorship financial requirement: AUD $24,812 (2026)
• Increases annually with indexation
• Applies to both onshore and offshore visas

4. Genuine Relationship Assessment Stricter

• Department increasingly scrutinizing applications
• More evidence required than previous years
• Relationship timeline and commitment emphasized

5. Bridging Visa Changes

• Bridging visa A (BVA) automatically granted onshore
• Work rights on BVA: Full-time work permitted
• Study rights: Unlimited study permitted

6. De Facto Relationship Recognition

• Same-sex and opposite-sex de facto relationships recognized
• Must meet 12-month cohabitation requirement
• Evidence requirements same as married couples

7. Prospective Marriage Visa (300) Updates

• Still available but less commonly used
• Requires marriage within 9 months of visa grant
• Transition to 820 visa after marriage

Complete Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a partner visa, you must meet several requirements across different categories.

1. Relationship Requirements

Your relationship must meet specific criteria to be recognized for visa purposes.

Married Couples:

• Legal marriage certificate
• Marriage recognized in Australia
• No requirement for minimum duration
• Can apply immediately after marriage

De Facto Couples (Opposite-Sex):

• Lived together for 12 months continuously
• Genuine domestic relationship
• Financial interdependence
• Social recognition as couple

De Facto Couples (Same-Sex):

• Same requirements as opposite-sex couples
• 12-month cohabitation requirement
• Genuine domestic relationship
• Financial interdependence

Prospective Marriage:

• Genuine intention to marry
• Intend to marry within 9 months
• Both parties consent to marriage
• Not already married to someone else

Important: Relationships must be genuine and ongoing. Sham relationships will result in visa refusal and potential criminal charges.

2. Genuine Relationship Evidence

You must provide substantial evidence demonstrating a genuine, ongoing relationship.

Essential Evidence:

Personal Relationship Evidence:

• Photographs together (various locations and times)
• Joint travel documents and airline tickets
• Correspondence (emails, messages, letters)
• Social media evidence (Facebook, Instagram posts)
• Joint social activities and events
• Family and friend testimonies

Financial Interdependence:

• Joint bank accounts
• Joint mortgage or lease
• Shared utility bills
• Joint insurance policies
• Financial support evidence
• Tax returns showing relationship

Domestic Arrangements:

• Shared household expenses
• Joint furniture and household goods
• Shared living arrangements
• Household bills in both names
• Evidence of shared decision-making

Social Recognition:

• Marriage or commitment ceremony
• Announcements to family and friends
• Joint invitations to social events
• Recognition by community
• Employer knowledge of relationship

Commitment to Relationship:

• Wills naming partner as beneficiary
• Powers of attorney
• Superannuation beneficiary nominations
• Life insurance policies
• Joint business interests

De Facto Specific Evidence:

• 12 months continuous cohabitation
• Shared accommodation lease/mortgage
• Joint utility bills
• Evidence of financial interdependence
• Social recognition as couple
• Statutory declarations from witnesses

Important: The more evidence you provide, the stronger your application. Quality and variety of evidence matters more than quantity.

3. Sponsorship Requirements

Your sponsor must meet specific requirements to sponsor you.

Sponsor Eligibility:

• Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen
• At least 18 years old
• Able to meet financial requirements
• Not subject to certain criminal convictions
• Not previously sponsored multiple partners

Sponsor Financial Requirement:

• Must meet Assurance of Support (AOS) requirement
• Financial requirement: AUD $24,812 (2026)
• Increases annually with indexation
• Applies to both onshore and offshore visas

Sponsor Obligations:

• Provide financial support if needed
• Ensure partner doesn’t become dependent on welfare
• Maintain sponsorship for 10 years (onshore) or 2 years (offshore)
• Report changes in circumstances
• Comply with all sponsorship conditions

Sponsor Restrictions:

• Cannot sponsor another partner for 5 years (in most cases)
• Cannot sponsor if previously sponsored multiple partners
• Cannot sponsor if subject to certain criminal convictions
• Cannot sponsor if bankrupt or insolvent

4. Health Requirements

All partner visa applicants must meet Australia‘s health requirements.

Health Examinations Required:

• General health check
• Chest X-ray (for applicants 11 years and over)
• Additional tests if required

When Required:

• All partner visa applications
• Applicants from high-risk countries
• Applicants with certain medical conditions

Health Examination Process:

1. Receive health examination request from Department
2. Book appointment with approved panel physician
3. Complete required examinations
4. Results sent directly to Department
5. Wait for health clearance

Costs:

• Health examination: AUD $300 – $500 per person
• Additional tests: Varies

Important: Some medical conditions may require additional documentation or may affect visa eligibility.

5. Character Requirements

You must be of good character to be granted a partner visa.

Police Certificates Required:

• From each country where you’ve lived for 12+ months in last 10 years
• From country of citizenship
• From current country of residence

When Required:

• Applicants 16 years and over
• At Department’s discretion

Police Certificate Costs:

• Australian Federal Police: AUD $42 (online) or $52 (hard copy)
• International certificates: Varies by country (AUD $50 – $200)

Character Concerns:

• Criminal convictions
• Pending charges
• Association with criminal organizations
• War crimes or crimes against humanity
• Domestic violence history

Important: Domestic violence history may result in visa refusal. Seek legal advice if applicable.

Partner Visa Types: Detailed Comparison

Subclass 820/801: Onshore Partner Visa

The onshore partner visa is for applicants already in Australia with their sponsor.

Subclass 820: Temporary Partner Visa

• Granted first
• Valid for 2 years
• Work rights: Unlimited
• Study rights: Unlimited
• Travel rights: Multiple entry

Subclass 801: Permanent Partner Visa

• Granted after 820 requirements met
• Permanent residency
• Work rights: Unlimited
• Study rights: Unlimited
• Travel rights: Multiple entry

Eligibility:

• In Australia on valid visa
• In genuine relationship with Australian citizen or PR
• Relationship recognized in Australia
• Meet health and character requirements

Application Process:

1. Ensure you’re in Australia on valid visa
2. Gather relationship evidence
3. Sponsor completes sponsorship application
4. You complete visa application
5. Submit together with all documents
6. Pay visa fee (AUD $9,365)
7. Provide biometrics
8. Wait for decision

Processing Time:

• 12-24 months (some cases longer)
• Bridging visa A granted automatically
• Can work and study while waiting

Advantages:

• Can apply while in Australia
• Bridging visa allows work and study
• Faster than offshore in some cases
• Can include dependent children

Disadvantages:

• Long processing times
• Must be in Australia on valid visa
• Cannot leave Australia without BVA
• Strict visa condition compliance required

Subclass 309/100: Offshore Partner Visa

The offshore partner visa is for applicants outside Australia.

Subclass 309: Temporary Partner Visa

• Granted first
• Valid for 2 years
• Work rights: Unlimited
• Study rights: Unlimited
• Travel rights: Multiple entry

Subclass 100: Permanent Partner Visa

• Granted after 309 requirements met
• Permanent residency
• Work rights: Unlimited
• Study rights: Unlimited
• Travel rights: Multiple entry

Eligibility:

• Outside Australia
• In genuine relationship with Australian citizen or PR
• Meet health and character requirements
• Sponsor meets financial requirements

Application Process:

1. Gather relationship evidence
2. Sponsor completes sponsorship application
3. You complete visa application
4. Submit together with all documents
5. Pay visa fee (AUD $9,365)
6. Provide biometrics
7. Wait for decision
8. Receive visa grant
9. Travel to Australia

Processing Time:

• 18-36 months (some cases longer)
• No bridging visa available
• Cannot enter Australia until visa granted

Advantages:

• Can apply from home country
• No visa requirement to be in Australia
• Potentially lower cost (no need to be in Australia)
• Can plan move to Australia

Disadvantages:

• Very long processing times
• Cannot enter Australia until visa granted
• Cannot work or study in Australia while waiting
• Relationship must be maintained during long wait

Subclass 300: Prospective Marriage Visa

The prospective marriage visa is for engaged couples planning to marry in Australia.

Visa Details:

• Valid for 9 months
• Single entry visa
• Work rights: Unlimited
• Study rights: Unlimited
• Must marry within 9 months

Eligibility:

• Genuine intention to marry
• Both parties consent to marriage
• Not already married to someone else
• Sponsor is Australian citizen or PR
• Meet health and character requirements

Application Process:

1. Gather evidence of genuine intention to marry
2. Sponsor completes sponsorship application
3. You complete visa application
4. Submit together with all documents
5. Pay visa fee (AUD $9,365)
6. Provide biometrics
7. Wait for decision
8. Receive visa grant
9. Travel to Australia
10. Marry within 9 months
11. Apply for Subclass 820 visa

Processing Time:

• 8-12 weeks (faster than other partner visas)
• Single entry only
• Must marry before visa expires

Advantages:

• Faster processing than other partner visas
• Allows time to marry in Australia
• Can work and study while in Australia
• Transition to 820 visa after marriage

Disadvantages:

• Must marry within 9 months
• Single entry only
• Additional visa fee for 820 application
• Total cost higher than direct 820/801 application

Subclass 461: New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa

A more affordable option for family members of New Zealand citizens.

Visa Details:

• Temporary visa
• Valid for 2 years
• Work rights: Unlimited
• Study rights: Unlimited
• Renewable

Eligibility:

• New Zealand citizen sponsor
• Family relationship (spouse, de facto, parent, child)
• Genuine relationship
• Meet health and character requirements

Application Fee:

• Primary applicant: AUD $445
• Additional applicant (18+): AUD $225
• Additional applicant (under 18): AUD $110

Advantages:

• Much lower cost than other partner visas
• Faster processing
• Renewable
• Work and study rights

Disadvantages:

• Temporary visa only
• Not pathway to permanent residency
• Must renew every 2 years
• Limited to NZ citizen sponsors

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for your partner visa.

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Before Starting:

• Confirm your relationship meets requirements
• Verify sponsor eligibility
• Check visa type suitability
• Gather initial documents

Questions to Consider:

• How long have you been together?
• Are you married or de facto?
• Where are you currently located?
• Does your sponsor meet financial requirements?
• Do you have health or character concerns?

Step 2: Gather Relationship Evidence

Essential Documents:

• Marriage certificate (if married)
• Birth certificates
• Passports
• Photographs together
• Travel documents
• Correspondence
• Joint financial documents
• Statutory declarations
• Character references

Organization Tips:

• Create chronological timeline
• Organize by category
• Label all documents
• Make copies
• Prepare certified translations if needed

Timeline:

• Allow 2-3 months to gather evidence
• Start early to avoid delays
• Request documents from institutions
• Obtain statutory declarations from witnesses

Step 3: Prepare Sponsor Application

Sponsor Must Complete:

• Sponsorship application form
• Statutory declaration
• Financial evidence
• Character evidence
• Relationship evidence

Sponsor Documents:

• Passport or citizenship certificate
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Divorce decrees (if applicable)
• Financial documents
• Police certificate
• Character references

Step 4: Prepare Your Visa Application

You Must Complete:

• Visa application form
• Statutory declaration
• Relationship evidence
• Character evidence
• Health and character declarations

Your Documents:

• Passport
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Divorce decrees (if applicable)
• Police certificates
• Character references
• Photographs

Step 5: Create ImmiAccount

ImmiAccount Setup:

1. Go to Department of Home Affairs website
2. Create ImmiAccount
3. Verify email address
4. Set up security questions
5. Log in to account

ImmiAccount Benefits:

• Submit visa application online
• Track application progress
• Receive correspondence
• Upload additional documents
• Check visa conditions

Step 6: Complete Online Application

Application Form Sections:

1. Personal details
2. Passport information
3. Contact details
4. Relationship details
5. Sponsor information
6. Financial information
7. Health and character declarations
8. Family members (if applicable)
9. Supporting documents upload

Important Tips:

• Answer all questions truthfully
• Provide complete information
• Double-check all details
• Save progress regularly
• Review before submission

Step 7: Pay Visa Application Fee

Payment Methods:

• Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Debit card
• PayPal
• UnionPay

Fees (2026):

• Single visa fee: AUD $9,365
• Includes both temporary and permanent stages
• Non-refundable, even if visa refused

Important: Fee must be paid at time of application.

Step 8: Submit Application

Before Submitting:

• Review all information
• Ensure all documents uploaded
• Check payment processed
• Confirm email address correct

After Submission:

• Receive acknowledgment email
• Note Transaction Reference Number (TRN)
• Wait for further instructions
• Check ImmiAccount regularly

Step 9: Provide Biometrics

Biometric Collection:

• Fingerprints
• Photograph
• Digital signature

Where to Provide:

• Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC)
• Australian diplomatic mission
• Approved biometric collection center

Cost: AUD $160 per person

Timeline: Within specified timeframe after request

Step 10: Complete Health Examinations

Process:

1. Receive health examination request
2. Book appointment with panel physician
3. Complete examinations within 28 days
4. Results sent directly to Department
5. Wait for health clearance

Important: Don’t complete health examinations before requested.

Step 11: Wait for Decision

Processing Times (2026):

• Onshore 820/801: 12-24 months
• Offshore 309/100: 18-36 months
• Subclass 300: 8-12 weeks

During Processing:

• Check ImmiAccount regularly
• Respond promptly to requests
• Keep contact details updated
• Don’t make travel arrangements (offshore)

Possible Outcomes:

• Visa granted
• Request for additional information
• Visa refused

Step 12: Receive Visa Grant

Visa Grant Notice:

• Visa grant number
• Visa conditions
• Visa validity dates
• Entry requirements

Important Actions:

• Read all conditions carefully
• Note visa start and end dates
• Understand work and study rights
• Plan travel to Australia (offshore)

Visa Conditions and Obligations

Understanding your visa conditions is crucial for maintaining compliance.

Onshore Visa Conditions (820/801)

Condition 8101: Maintain Relationship

• Must remain in genuine relationship with sponsor
• Relationship breakdown may affect visa
• Must notify Department of changes

Condition 8105: Notify of Changes

• Notify Department of address changes
• Notify of relationship changes
• Notify of employment changes
• Notify of health issues

Condition 8503: No Further Stay

• Cannot apply for most other visas while on 820
• Limited exceptions for certain visa types
• Must wait for 801 grant to apply for other visas

Work and Study Rights:

• Unlimited work rights
• Unlimited study rights
• No restrictions on employment type

Offshore Visa Conditions (309/100)

Condition 8101: Maintain Relationship

• Must remain in genuine relationship with sponsor
• Relationship breakdown may affect visa
• Must notify Department of changes

Condition 8105: Notify of Changes

• Notify Department of address changes
• Notify of relationship changes
• Notify of employment changes

Condition 8503: No Further Stay

• Cannot apply for most other visas while on 309
• Limited exceptions for certain visa types
• Must wait for 100 grant to apply for other visas

Work and Study Rights:

• Unlimited work rights
• Unlimited study rights
• No restrictions on employment type

Bridging Visa A (Onshore Only)

Automatic Grant:

• Granted automatically when 820 application submitted
• Allows you to remain in Australia while waiting
• Work and study rights included

Conditions:

• Must maintain relationship with sponsor
• Must not breach visa conditions
• Must notify of changes
• Must not work illegally

Important: BVA is essential for onshore applicants. Ensure it’s granted before current visa expires.

Financial Requirements and Sponsorship

Understanding financial requirements is crucial for successful application.

Assurance of Support (AOS) Requirement

What Is AOS?

• Financial commitment from sponsor
• Ensures partner won’t become dependent on welfare
• Applies to both onshore and offshore visas

Financial Requirement (2026):

• AUD $24,812 (indexed annually)
• Increases on July 1 each year
• Applies regardless of visa type

Who Must Meet Requirement:

• Sponsor must meet requirement
• Can be met by sponsor alone or with co-sponsor
• Co-sponsor must be Australian citizen or PR

How to Meet Requirement:

Option 1: Sponsor’s Income

• Sponsor’s annual income must exceed requirement
• Verified through tax returns
• Last 2 years of tax returns required

Option 2: Sponsor’s Assets

• Liquid assets (savings, investments)
• Real estate equity
• Superannuation (limited)
• Combination of income and assets

Option 3: Co-Sponsor

• Another person (usually family member)
• Must be Australian citizen or PR
• Must meet financial requirement
• Must sign statutory declaration

Documentation Required:

• Last 2 years tax returns
• Bank statements (last 3 months)
• Payslips (last 3 months)
• Property valuations
• Investment statements
• Superannuation statements

Sponsorship Duration

Onshore Sponsorship (820/801):

• 10 years from visa grant
• Sponsor remains responsible for 10 years
• Even after 801 grant

Offshore Sponsorship (309/100):

• 2 years from visa grant
• Sponsor responsible for 2 years
• Shorter duration than onshore

Sponsor Obligations:

• Provide financial support if needed
• Ensure partner doesn’t become dependent on welfare
• Report changes in circumstances
• Comply with all sponsorship conditions

Common Refusal Reasons and How to Avoid Them

Understanding common refusal reasons helps you prepare a stronger application.

Top Refusal Reasons

1. Insufficient Genuine Relationship Evidence

• Vague or generic evidence
• Lack of personal relationship evidence
• Insufficient financial interdependence
• Weak social recognition

How to Avoid:

• Provide detailed, specific evidence
• Include photographs from various times and places
• Show financial interdependence clearly
• Obtain statutory declarations from witnesses
• Include correspondence and communications

2. Inadequate Financial Evidence

• Sponsor doesn’t meet financial requirement
• Insufficient documentation
• Unclear source of funds
• Recent large deposits

How to Avoid:

• Ensure sponsor meets AOS requirement
• Provide complete financial documentation
• Show stable financial history
• Explain source of all funds
• Include co-sponsor if needed

3. Health or Character Concerns

• Failed health examination
• Undisclosed medical conditions
• Criminal history
• False information

How to Avoid:

• Complete health examinations honestly
• Disclose all medical conditions
• Provide police certificates
• Be truthful in all declarations
• Seek legal advice if concerned

4. Relationship Not Genuine

• Sham relationship
• Insufficient cohabitation (de facto)
• Lack of commitment evidence
• Suspicious circumstances

How to Avoid:

• Provide comprehensive relationship evidence
• Show genuine commitment
• Demonstrate financial interdependence
• Obtain witness statements
• Include personal correspondence

5. Incomplete Application

• Missing documents
• Incorrect information
• Unsigned forms
• Insufficient evidence

How to Avoid:

• Use comprehensive checklist
• Double-check all information
• Provide all required documents
• Review before submission
• Seek professional advice

6. Sponsor Issues

• Sponsor doesn’t meet requirements
• Sponsor has criminal history
• Sponsor previously sponsored multiple partners
• Sponsor financial issues

How to Avoid:

• Verify sponsor eligibility early
• Ensure sponsor meets financial requirement
• Disclose any relevant history
• Seek professional advice if concerned

Tips for a Successful Application

Follow these tips to maximize your chances of visa approval.

Before Applying

1. Assess Your Situation

• Confirm relationship meets requirements
• Verify sponsor eligibility
• Check visa type suitability
• Identify any potential issues

2. Gather Comprehensive Evidence

• Start collecting evidence early
• Organize by category
• Include variety of evidence types
• Make certified copies

3. Plan Timeline

• Allow 3-6 months for preparation
• Consider processing times
• Plan for potential delays
• Arrange work/study accordingly

4. Seek Professional Advice

• Consider migration agent
• Get legal advice if needed
• Clarify any concerns
• Understand all requirements

During Application

1. Be Honest and Accurate

• Provide truthful information
• Don’t exaggerate or lie
• Disclose all relevant information
• Correct mistakes immediately

2. Provide Quality Evidence

• Clear and legible documents
• Certified translations
• Organized and labeled
• Complete and comprehensive

3. Follow Instructions

• Read all requirements carefully
• Complete all sections
• Provide requested information
• Meet deadlines

4. Maintain Relationship

• Keep relationship strong
• Continue documenting relationship
• Maintain communication
• Avoid separation

After Submission

1. Monitor Application

• Check ImmiAccount regularly
• Respond promptly to requests
• Keep contact details updated
• Track processing progress

2. Be Patient

• Don’t contact Department unnecessarily
• Wait for official communication
• Avoid making assumptions
• Stay positive

3. Prepare for Arrival

• Research accommodation
• Plan budget
• Learn about Australian culture
• Connect with community

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to process a partner visa?

Processing times vary:

• Onshore 820/801: 12-24 months (some cases longer)
• Offshore 309/100: 18-36 months
• Subclass 300: 8-12 weeks

Always check current processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Can I work while my partner visa is being processed?

Yes, if you’re onshore on a Bridging Visa A, you have unlimited work rights. If you’re offshore, you cannot work in Australia until your visa is granted.

What if my relationship breaks down during the application?

If your relationship breaks down, you should notify the Department immediately. Your visa application may be refused or your visa may be cancelled.

Can I include my children in my partner visa application?

Yes, you can include dependent children in your partner visa application. Additional fees apply for each child.

What is the difference between married and de facto relationships?

Married couples don’t need to meet the 12-month cohabitation requirement. De facto couples must have lived together for 12 months continuously and meet other requirements.

Can my sponsor be a New Zealand citizen?

For most partner visas, your sponsor must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. New Zealand citizens can sponsor under Subclass 461 visa only.

What happens if my visa is refused?

If your visa is refused, you’ll receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You may be able to:

• Apply for a new visa addressing the refusal reasons
• Request a review of the decision
• Seek advice from a registered migration agent

Can I apply for a partner visa if I have a criminal record?

Having a criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it may affect your application. Seek legal advice if you have concerns.

How much does a partner visa cost in total?

Total costs include:

• Visa application fee: AUD $9,365
• Health examinations: AUD $300 – $500 per person
• Police certificates: AUD $42 – $200 per certificate
• Biometrics: AUD $160 per person
• Migration agent (if used): AUD $4,600 – $6,600
• Total: AUD $14,500 – $17,500+

Can I apply for permanent residency directly?

No, you must first apply for the temporary visa (820 or 309), then transition to the permanent visa (801 or 100) after meeting requirements.

How long must I stay with my sponsor after getting permanent residency?

There’s no legal requirement to stay with your sponsor after receiving permanent residency. However, if you separate, you should notify the Department.

Conclusion

The Australian partner visa is a significant investment in time, money, and emotional commitment. With visa fees exceeding AUD $9,365, processing times of 12-36 months, and strict requirements, careful preparation is essential.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understand Requirements: Know all eligibility criteria before applying
2. Gather Comprehensive Evidence: Provide detailed relationship evidence
3. Verify Sponsor Eligibility: Ensure sponsor meets all requirements
4. Plan Financially: Budget for all costs and living expenses
5. Choose Right Visa Type: Select visa type matching your circumstances
6. Prepare Strong Application: Submit complete, accurate application
7. Maintain Relationship: Keep relationship strong during processing
8. Seek Professional Help: Consider migration agent for complex cases

2026 Key Points to Remember:

• Visa fee: AUD $9,365 (single fee for both temporary and permanent)
• Financial requirement: AUD $24,812 (indexed annually)
• Processing times: 12-24 months onshore, 18-36 months offshore
• Genuine relationship evidence: Critical to success
• Bridging visa A: Automatically granted onshore
• Work rights: Unlimited on all partner visas
• Sponsorship duration: 10 years onshore, 2 years offshore

Next Steps:

1. Assess your eligibility
2. Gather relationship evidence
3. Verify sponsor eligibility
4. Prepare financial documentation
5. Choose visa type
6. Gather all required documents
7. Create ImmiAccount
8. Complete visa application
9. Submit with all documents
10. Wait for decision

The partner visa pathway is achievable with proper planning, comprehensive evidence, and understanding of all requirements. While the process is lengthy and expensive, it provides a clear pathway to permanent residency and a life together in Australia.

Important Resources:

• Department of Home Affairs: www.homeaffairs.gov.au
• ImmiAccount: online.immi.gov.au
• MARA (Migration Agents): www.mara.gov.au
• Legal Aid: Various state-based services
• Relationship Services: Counseling and support

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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Australian partner visas as of 2026. Visa requirements and conditions can change. Always verify current requirements on the official Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent for advice specific to your situation.