Commonwealth of Australia · family
Partner visa (subclass 820/801, 309/100)
Residence visa for spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.
Last reviewed:
Overview
Partner visas involve a two-stage process: a temporary visa (subclass 820 onshore / 309 offshore) and a permanent visa (801 / 100) typically 2 years later. De facto partners need 12 months of cohabitation or registered relationship evidence.
Government fees
AUD 9,365+ — among the most expensive partner visas globally.
Typical duration
Initial provisional to permanent residence.
Primary source
Department of Home Affairs — Partner visa · Department of Home Affairs
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Genuine and continuing relationship.
Sponsor is Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Common blockers
Insufficient relationship evidence.
Typical evidence
Marriage certificate or registered relationship evidence.
Joint finances and cohabitation history.
Application pathway
Step 1
Sponsor approval
Sponsor separately approved, often prior to visa lodgement.
Step 2
Lodge temporary stage
Combined with permanent application.
Step 3
Wait 2 years (typically)
Before permanent stage considered.
Step 4
Permanent grant
Upon relationship continuance.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is the Australian partner visa so expensive?
Australia has historically priced partner visas at recovery-plus-levy rates. At around AUD 9,000+ for the principal applicant, it is one of the world's most expensive family-migration products. Compare carefully against UK (£1,938 + IHS) and EU family routes.
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