What Are the Partner Visa Requirements in Australia? A Complete Guide for 2025

If you're planning to live in Australia with your partner, applying for a partner visa might be your best option. However, understanding the partner visa requirements in Australia is crucial before you start your application.

From proving a genuine relationship to meeting character and health checks, the process can be complex—but it’s definitely manageable with the right guidance.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about applying for a partner visa in Australia, step-by-step. Whether you’re married or in a de facto relationship, this article covers it all.

Types of Partner Visas in Australia

The Australian Government offers two main pathways for partner visas:

1. Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309 and 100)

• Subclass 309 is the temporary visa applied for outside of Australia.

• Subclass 100 is the permanent partner visa granted after the relationship continues and satisfies all criteria.

2. Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820 and 801)

• Subclass 820 is the temporary partner visa for applicants already in Australia.

• Subclass 801 is the permanent visa that follows once you meet additional requirements.

Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa?

You can apply for a partner visa if:

• You are in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

• Your relationship falls under one of the following:

· Married (legally recognized by Australian law)

· De facto relationship (including same-sex relationships), proven to have existed for at least 12 months unless exceptional circumstances apply.

• Both partners are at least 18 years old.

• You meet health and character requirements.

Key Partner Visa Requirements

To apply for a partner visa, you and your sponsor must meet a variety of legal and evidentiary criteria. Here are the core requirements:

1. Genuine Relationship

You must demonstrate that your relationship is authentic, long-term, and not entered into for visa purposes. Evidence includes:

• Shared financial responsibilities (joint bank accounts, leases)

• Social proof (photos, joint invitations, travel history)

• Household arrangements (shared bills, domestic duties)

• Emotional commitment (messages, declarations from friends and family)

2. Sponsorship by Eligible Partner

Your partner must sponsor your application and must:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Provide police checks and disclose any criminal history (especially involving children or family violence)

• Not have sponsored more than two partners previously, and not have sponsored anyone in the last 5 years, unless exceptional circumstances apply

3. Health and Character Checks

Applicants must:

• Undergo a health examination by an approved panel physician

• Provide police clearance certificates from every country they’ve lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years

4. De Facto Relationship Proof (if not married)

For de facto couples:

• You need to demonstrate 12 months of cohabitation, unless you have registered the relationship with an Australian state or territory

• Provide documentary proof of co-living, shared responsibilities, and social interdependence

Cost of Partner Visa

As of 2025, the government application fee is:

• AUD $8,850 for the main applicant (either onshore or offshore)

• Additional fees may apply for dependents

Other expenses include:

• Health assessments

• Police checks

• Translation and certification of documents

• Migration agent fees (if you choose to use one)

Processing Time (2025 Estimates)

Processing times can vary based on your circumstances and the complexity of your case. On average:

• Temporary visa (Subclass 309/820): 12–18 months

• Permanent visa (Subclass 100/801): Additional 12–24 months after the temporary visa is granted

The Department of Home Affairs has been working to reduce delays, but backlogs still exist.

Can You Work or Study While on a Partner Visa?

Yes, once you are granted the temporary partner visa, you can:

• Work full-time

• Study (without access to government funding)

• Travel in and out of Australia freely

Bridging visa holders (waiting for a Subclass 820 decision while already in Australia) may also be eligible to work, depending on the visa they previously held.

Common Reasons for Partner Visa Refusal

Understanding common pitfalls can help you avoid them. Visa refusals typically occur due to:

• Inadequate relationship evidence

• Inconsistent or false documentation

• Sponsor ineligibility

• Not meeting health or character requirements

• Relationship breakdown before visa processing is complete

Always provide honest, consistent, and well-documented evidence to support your application.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start early: Gather evidence as soon as possible, especially if applying as de facto.

• Organize documents: Use folders or digital tools to keep everything well-organized.

• Tell your story: Use your statutory declarations to explain your relationship in detail.

• Get professional help: A registered migration agent can improve your chances, especially for complex cases.

Final Thoughts:

Applying for a partner visa in Australia is a significant step, both emotionally and financially. While the process can be overwhelming, knowing the requirements and preparing accordingly can make a huge difference.

Whether you're starting a new life together or reuniting after time apart, understanding the partner visa requirements is the first step toward building your future in Australia.

If you’re unsure where to begin or want to ensure everything’s in order, consulting a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer can give you peace of mind.