Bringing your loved one to Australia is one of the most important steps a family can take. If you are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be able to sponsor your partner for a Partner Visa. The two main options are the Subclass 309/100 (offshore) and Subclass 820/801 (onshore) visas.

This guide explains what these visas are, how they work, and what families need to prepare for a successful application.

What is a Partner Visa?

A Partner Visa allows the husband, wife, or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. It is designed to help couples and families build their lives together without long periods of separation.

There are two main streams:

• Partner Visa Subclass 820/801 (Onshore): Apply while you are in Australia. The Subclass 820 is temporary, leading to the permanent Subclass 801 visa.

• Partner Visa Subclass 309/100 (Offshore): Apply from outside Australia. The Subclass 309 is temporary, followed by the permanent Subclass 100 visa.

Both are two-stage processes that begin with a temporary visa and progress to permanent residency once relationship requirements are met.

Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa?

To be eligible, you must:

• Be married or in a genuine de facto relationship with your sponsor

• Show evidence of a shared life together, such as joint finances, joint bills, photos, travel history, or social proof

• Meet health and character requirements

• Have a sponsor who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

For de facto couples, at least 12 months of living together is usually required unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Benefits of a Partner Visa

Once granted, a Partner Visa allows you to:

• Live and work in Australia while awaiting your permanent visa

• Access Medicare for healthcare

• Study in Australia without restrictions

• Apply for permanent residency (801 or 100 visa) after the qualifying period

• Take the next step towards Australian citizenship once eligible

Preparing an Application

The success of a Partner Visa application depends on providing clear, consistent, and genuine evidence of your relationship. Families often strengthen their applications by:

• Collecting joint financial documents such as bank statements or rental agreements

• Providing photos and travel records that show time spent together

• Supplying declarations from family and friends confirming the relationship

• Keeping accurate records of your communication and shared commitments

Common Challenges

Many applicants face delays because:

• Evidence is incomplete or inconsistent

• Documents are not translated correctly

• Relationship timelines are unclear

• Sponsor obligations are misunderstood

Working with a MARA-registered migration agent helps families avoid mistakes, manage paperwork, and reduce the risk of refusal by assessing the case as per the immigration laws.

Processing Times and Costs

• Temporary visas (309 or 820): Processing may take 12–24 months (intended as general guidance only), depending on your situation and the Department of Home Affairs workload.

• Permanent visas (100 or 801): Generally granted around two years after the initial application if the relationship is ongoing.

• Visa application charges and additional costs (medical checks, police clearances, translations) should be budgeted for.

Why Choose a Registered Migration Agent?

Applying for a Partner Visa is more than filling out forms—it’s about meeting the criteria's in a way that meets Australian immigration requirements.

Melbourne Migration Services can:

• Provide expert guidance on which subclass suits your family

• Review your evidence and documents for accuracy

• Handle communication with the Department of Home Affairs

• Give you peace of mind while you focus on your family

Take the First Step Towards Reuniting with Your Partner

The Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100 and 820/801) is one of the most meaningful visas available, as it helps families stay united in Australia. With the right preparation, evidence, and professional advice, your partner can build a secure future here with you.

If you’re ready to begin your Partner Visa journey, contact our Melbourne migration services today. We’ll help you take the next step to bring your family together in Australia.