Australian Partner Visas Guide
A Partner Visa is a category of visa that allows the spouse or de-facto partner (including same-sex partners) of a citizen, permanent resident, or eligible citizen of a specific country to live, work, and stay in that country.
Visa Pathways
Offshore Partner Visa
(Subclass 309/100)
Designed for partners who are outside Australia at the time of application. This is a “combined” application for both temporary and permanent visas.
Stage 1: Subclass 309 (Temporary): Enter and live in Australia while the permanent stage is processed. Grants full work, study rights, and Medicare.
Stage 2: Subclass 100 (Permanent): Generally assessed two years after application. If the relationship continues, grants indefinite residency.
Onshore Partner Visa
(Subclass 820/801)
The onshore counterpart for partners already in Australia on another valid substantive visa (Student, Visitor, etc.).
Bridging Visa Advantage: Applying onshore typically grants a Bridging Visa A (BVA), allowing you to remain legally with work rights while processing.
Requirement: Married or in a de facto relationship (usually 12+ months unless registered).
Prospective Marriage Visa
(Subclass 300)
Commonly known as the Fiancé Visa, for people engaged to marry their prospective spouse in Australia.
Validity: Valid for 9 to 15 months. Marriage must occur within this timeframe.
The Pathway: After marriage, apply for the Onshore Partner Visa (820/801). The subsequent fee is significantly reduced (approx. $1,560 in 2025).
Comprehensive Comparison Table
| Feature | Offshore Partner (309/100) | Onshore Partner (820/801) | Prospective Marriage (300) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | For spouses/de facto partners currently outside Australia. | For spouses/de facto partners currently inside Australia. | For fiancés outside Australia intending to marry. |
| Location at App | Must be outside Australia. | Must be inside Australia. | Must be outside Australia. |
| Visa Status | Temp (309) leads to Perm (100). | Temp (820) leads to Perm (801). | Temporary (Fiancé Visa). |
| Eligibility | Married or De Facto (12 months). | Married or De Facto (12 months). | Engaged to marry. |
| Primary Benefits | Full work/study rights; Medicare access; pathway to PR. | Bridging visa during processing; full work/study; Medicare. | Enter AU to marry; full work rights; travel freedom. |
| Key Criteria | Genuine & continuing relationship; meet Health/Character. | Genuine & continuing relationship; meet Health/Character. | Must have met in person; genuine intent to marry. |
| Sponsorship | AU citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen. | AU citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen. | AU citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen. |
| Cost (2025) | Starting from $9,365 AUD. | Starting from $9,365 AUD. | Starting from $9,365 AUD. |
| PR Pathway | Included (Stage 2). | Included (Stage 2). | Via Subclass 820/801 after marriage. |
Important Evidence: The “Four Pillars”
1. Financial Aspects
Evidence of joint bank accounts, shared assets (like a car or house), or joint responsibility for bills and debts.
2. Nature of the Household
Proof of living together, such as a joint lease, mail addressed to both at the same address, and statements on sharing household chores.
3. Social Aspects
Evidence you are recognized as a couple. This includes photos together at events, joint invitations, and Form 888 from family/friends.
4. Nature of Commitment
Proof of a long-term future together, such as joint wills, being each other’s emergency contacts, and knowledge of backgrounds.
Why Choose Optivise Group?
A Partner Visa is one of the most expensive and scrutiny-heavy visas in the Australian immigration system. A simple error or lack of evidence can lead to lengthy delays or refusals.
We are seasoned Australian migration consultants. We don’t just fill out forms; we tell your story. Our team ensures your relationship evidence is compiled thoroughly and meets every legislative requirement before it reaches the Department.
Ready to start your Australian journey together?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I include my children in my partner visa application?
Yes. Dependent children can be included as secondary applicants in your 309/100 or 820/801 application, provided they meet health and character requirements.
2. What happens if our relationship ends before the permanent visa is granted?
Generally, if the relationship ends, the visa process stops. However, exceptions exist for cases involving domestic violence, shared children, or the death of a partner.
3. Do I need to be married to apply for a Partner Visa?
No. You can apply as a de facto partner if you can prove you have lived together for at least 12 months. Alternatively, you can waive the 12-month requirement by registering your relationship in an Australian state/territory.
4. Can I travel while my 820 visa is being processed?
If you are onshore on a Bridging Visa A, you must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) before leaving Australia if you wish to return.
5. How long is the Prospective Marriage (300) visa valid?
It is typically valid for 9 to 15 months from the date of grant. You must marry your partner and apply for the 820 visa before this period ends.