Partner Visa – Subclass 820/801, 309/100

Partner Visa – Subclass 820/801, 309/100

Build Your Future in Australia with the One You Love

The Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 for onshore and Subclass 309/100 for offshore) allows spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia. This two-stage visa process is designed to help genuine couples build a life together while progressing toward permanent residency.

Whether you're currently in Australia or overseas, this visa pathway supports long-term commitment, family unity, and stability.

What Is the Partner Visa?

The Partner Visa is split into two main streams:

• Subclass 820/801 – Onshore visa for applicants applying within Australia
• Subclass 309/100 – Offshore visa for applicants applying from outside Australia

Both streams involve a temporary visa first (820 or 309), followed by a permanent visa (801 or 100) after a period of assessment and continued relationship.

Why Apply for This Visa?

Love knows no borders — and neither should your future together. This visa ensures you don’t have to choose between your partner and your future in Australia.

• Live, work, and study in Australia
• Access Medicare and social services
• Travel in and out of Australia freely
• Apply for permanent residency after two years (approx.)
• Pathway to citizenship for long-term partners

Who Should Consider It?

The Partner Visa is a strong choice for couples in genuine, committed relationships who want to share a future in Australia. Whether you're just starting your life together or have already built a foundation, this visa supports your journey with legal and emotional peace of mind.

This visa is ideal for:

• Married couples with an Australian or eligible NZ citizen partner
• De facto couples who have lived together for at least 12 months
• Engaged or recently married couples building a life in Australia
• Couples who are genuinely committed and can provide evidence of their relationship

Visa Eligibility Requirements

Meeting the criteria for a Partner Visa involves demonstrating the authenticity and depth of your relationship. Immigration authorities closely examine evidence of shared life, emotional commitment, and mutual support.

To qualify for a Partner Visa, applicants must:

• Be married to or in a de facto relationship with an eligible sponsor
• Prove the relationship is genuine and ongoing
• Provide evidence of shared life, financial commitments, and emotional support
• Be sponsored by an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen
• Meet standard health and character requirements

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Applying for a Partner Visa is a two-stage journey that starts with the temporary visa and leads to permanent residency. Each step requires accurate documentation and a clear presentation of your relationship history.

1. Choose the correct stream (onshore 820/801 or offshore 309/100)
2. Lodge the application and pay the government fee
3. Submit relationship evidence and identity documents
4. Temporary visa is granted first (820 or 309)
5. After approx. 2 years, provide updated evidence for permanent visa stage (801 or 100)

What You’ll Need

Gathering the right evidence is key to building a compelling application. Here's what you’ll need to support your case:

• Marriage or de facto evidence (joint lease, bank accounts, photos, etc.)
• Sponsor’s proof of citizenship or residency
• Police checks and health exams
• Statutory declarations from friends and family

Health & Character Requirements

To protect the health and safety of the Australian community, all applicants must meet specific health and character requirements.

Applicants must:

• Complete medical exams with an approved panel physician
• Provide police certificates from every country they’ve lived in for 12+ months

Why Apply with Us?

Partner visas are among the most emotionally important — and closely scrutinised. We help you prepare a strong, transparent case to showcase the authenticity of your relationship.

✅ Relationship assessment and evidence checklist

✅ Document preparation and government correspondence

✅ Ongoing guidance from temporary to permanent stage

✅ Support for bridging visas and work rights

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DISCLAIMER: This information is general guidance only. For the latest details, visit the Department of Home Affairs.