Partner Visas
Australia’s Partner visa program is designed for individuals who are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, allowing them to live together in Australia. The pathway is generally a two-stage process, leading from a temporary visa to a permanent one.
The Two-Stage Partner Visa StructureWhen applying for a Partner visa based on a marriage or de facto relationship (820/801 or 309/100), the applicant lodges one application for both the temporary and permanent visas and pays a single, combined application fee.
- Stage 1 (Temporary Visa): The initial visa (Subclass 820 or 309) is granted if the relationship is assessed as genuine and meets all criteria. This allows the applicant to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily.
- Stage 2 (Permanent Visa): Approximately two years after the initial application date, the Department of Home Affairs will assess the relationship again. If the relationship remains genuine and continuing, the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100) is granted.
💡 Long-Term Relationship Exception (Permanent Visa Granted Early): If you can demonstrate a 'long-term relationship' at the time of the initial application, the permanent visa may be granted immediately after the temporary visa.
Detailed Visa Subclasses
| Subclass | Visa Type | Location at Application | Key Feature / Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300 | Prospective Marriage (Temporary) | Outside Australia | For applicants intending to marry their Australian partner within the 9-15 month visa validity period; Must apply for the 820/801 Partner visa after marriage |
| 309 | Partner (Provisional) - Stage 1 | Outside Australia | Temporary visa for married or de facto partners; Allows travel to and residence in Australia until the permanent 100 visa is processed |
| 100 | Partner (Migrant) - Stage 2 | (Must hold Subclass 309) | Permanent residency granted after holding the 309 visa and continuing to meet the relationship criteria |
| 820 | Partner (Temporary) - Stage 1 | In Australia | Temporary visa for married or de facto partners; Applicant must be in Australia when applying and for the 820 grant |
| 801 | Partner (Permanent) - Stage 2 | (Must hold Subclass 820) | Permanent residency granted after holding the 820 visa and continuing to meet the relationship criteria |
