Partner Visa for Australia: A Complete Guide

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Partner visa for Australia is the first step if you want to join your partner and build a life together in the country. This visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. It also gives you the right to work, study, and build your life together while progressing toward permanent residency. 

There are three main types of visas related to partnership: 

• Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): This temporary marriage visa Australia allows engaged partners to enter Australia, marry their Australian partner within nine months, and then apply for a partner visa. 

• Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820 and 801): Apply while you are in Australia. 

• Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309 and 100): Apply while you are outside Australia. 

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Australian Spouse Visa, what it is, how it works, and why it could be your pathway to building a life together in Australia. 

Understanding the Partner Visa for Australia 

The Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) allows an individual to enter Australia to marry their Australian citizen or permanent resident partner. After marriage, they can apply for a Spouse Visa.  

The Partner Visa is processed in two stages: first, a temporary visa is granted, and after a waiting period and further assessment, the applicant may become eligible for permanent residency. Both visas are applied together in one application but granted at different times based on eligibility and relationship history. 

Below is a breakdown of each visa stage and what it offers. 

Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820 and 801) 

For applicants already in Australia. 

• Subclass 820 (Temporary):
  Apply if you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa lets you stay in Australia, work, study, and access Medicare while waiting for the permanent visa. 

• Subclass 801 (Permanent):
  Granted about two years later if your relationship is still genuine. You can live in Australia permanently, access full Medicare, social services, and apply for citizenship later if eligible. 

Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309 and 100) 

For applicants outside Australia. 

• Subclass 309 (Temporary):
  Allows you to move to Australia while your permanent visa is processed. You can live, work, and study during this time. 

• Subclass 100 (Permanent):
  Usually granted after two years if the relationship continues. It provides permanent residency, access to Medicare, and the option to apply for citizenship later.

Eligibility Criteria for a Spouse Visa  

1. Genuine Relationship Requirement

You must show that your relationship is real and ongoing. This applies to both married and de facto couples. 

To prove this, you need to give evidence in four key areas: 

• Financial: Joint bank accounts, shared bills, or ownership of shared property. 

• Household: Living together, sharing chores, and making decisions together. 

• Social: Attending events as a couple, sharing holidays, and support from friends and family. 

• Commitment: Showing long-term plans, daily communication, and how long you’ve lived together. 

For de facto couples, you must have lived together for at least 12 months before applying — unless you have strong reasons, like having a child together. 

2. Age and Legal Requirements

Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old when you apply. This confirms that you both understand the legal responsibilities of the relationship. 

3. Sponsorship Conditions

Your partner must agree to sponsor you. They must be: 

• An Australian citizen, 

• A permanent resident of Australia, or 

• An eligible New Zealand citizen. 

The sponsor must: 

• Provide documents that prove their status, 

• Agree to support you financially and offer housing for your first 2 years in Australia. 

A sponsor can only support two partners in their lifetime, with a five-year gap between sponsorships. 

4. Health and Character Requirements

Health Checks 

You and any dependents must complete medical exams. These tests check for health risks to the Australian public and healthcare system. Exams may include: 

• Medical check-up 

• Chest x-ray 

• HIV test 

The type of exam depends on your country of origin and health background. 

Character Checks 

You must provide police certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the last 10 years (from the age of 16). The government checks for: 

• Criminal history 

• Involvement in any harmful activities 

• Signed character declaration 

Application Process: Step-by-Step 

Step 1: Prepare Documentation 

Gather proof of your relationship, identity documents, sponsorship forms, financial records, and evidence covering household, social, and commitment aspects. Organize everything before starting the application. 

Step 2: Submit Your Application Online 

Create an Immi Account, upload your documents, pay the visa fee, and lodge the application. Both partner and sponsor must complete their parts accurately and promptly. 

Step 3: Complete Health & Character Checks 

Book your medical examination, chest x-ray, and HIV test. Submit police clearance certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months over the past decade. 

Step 4: Wait for Visa Outcome 

Wait while the Department of Home Affairs reviews your application. You may be contacted for more documents or interviews before receiving a decision. 

Tips to Strengthen Your Spouse Visa Application 

Showing that your relationship is real is the key. Keep records like joint bank accounts, lease agreements, or photos of special moments. If you and your partner live together, include documents that prove your shared address. 

Write a personal statement describing your relationship story. Talk about how you met, your future plans, and what you share in your day-to-day life. Letters from family and friends can also add weight to your application. 

Answer all questions honestly and provide as much detail as possible. Being clear and open helps immigration officers understand your relationship better. 

Get Expert Help to Simplify Your Spouse Visa Process  

The process for the partner visa for Australia is not easy. There are many documents to prepare and rules to follow. One small mistake can lead to long delays. That’s why having the right help matters. 

KnN Migration can guide you through the process from start to finish. Their team understands the system and knows what steps to take. They will help you get everything right the first time so you can focus on joining your partner in Australia.