Love does not always follow boundaries – and thankfully allows Australia’s partner visa couples to live together and build their future in the country. If your partner is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a qualified New Zealand citizen, partner visa Australia gives you a route to live, work and eventually become a permanent resident. But like most visa procedures, it only requires more than filling a form. Let us break everything that you need to know about the partner visa application – from eligibility criteria and paperwork to deadline and expert support.

What is a Partner Visa?

A partner visa allows a worthy sponsor of a visa spouse or real sponsor to live in Australia. It is processed in two stages: 

• Temporary Participation Visa – Subclass 820 (onshore) or 309 (offshore) 
• Permanent Participation Visa – Substance 801 (onshore) or 100 

Applicants usually apply together for both stages. Once the temporary partner visa is approved, you live in Australia while the Department of Home Affairs assesses your application for a permanent visa.

Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa Australia?

To be eligible, you need: 

• Stay in a real relationship with your partner (either married or in a real relationship).
  
• Have your relationship legally recognized (including same-sex relationships).
  
• Be sponsored by your partner, who must be:
  
  • An Australian citizen,
    
  • An Australian permanent resident, or
    
  • An eligible New Zealand citizen.
    
• Meet health and character requirements.
  
• If applied under an actual relationship, show the 12 months proof of living together – until your relationship is registered with an Australian state. 

If you are uncertain about eligibility, speaking with a fellow visa consultant or migration agent can help clear your options.

What documents require? 

The partner visa application requires detailed documentation to prove the authenticity of your relationship. Here is an original checklist:

• Valid passports and ID documents
  
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  
• Evidence of joint finances (bank statements, shared assets)
  
• Proof of shared living arrangements (lease agreements, utility bills)
  
• Communication history (emails, messages, calls)
  
• Travel documents or photos showing time spent together
  
• Form 888 – statutory declarations from friends or family
  

Incomplete or inconsistent documents can delay your application. To reduce errors, many couples choose to consult a registered migration agent.

How to Apply for a Partner Visa

Here’s a quick overview of the partner visa Australia application process:

1. Create an ImmiAccount and start your online application.
   
2. Submit all required forms and supporting documents.
   
3. Pay the visa application fee (AUD $8,850 as of 2025).
   
4. Complete your health checks and police clearances.
   
5. Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to review your case.
   
6. If approved, receive your temporary partner visa.
   
7. After about 2 years, submit updated documents to be assessed for the permanent partner visa.
   

Partner Visa Australia Processing Time

One of the most common concerns is the partner visa processing time. These can vary widely:

• Subclass 820/309 (Temporary Visa): 12–22 months on average
  
• Subclass 801/100 (Permanent Visa): 12–24 months after the temporary stage
  

Factors that influence processing time include the quality of your evidence, whether you’ve provided all required documents, and the complexity of your case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants face delays—or even rejections—because of small but avoidable errors. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Inconsistent timelines in relationship evidence
  
• Insufficient or vague documentation
  
• Failing to include Form 888 declarations
  
• Not updating your application with changes in circumstances
  
• Overlooking character or health requirements
  

This is where a partner visa consultant or migration agent can be invaluable. They’ll help you prepare a complete, compelling application and avoid costly mistakes.

Why Use a Migration Agent?

Although it’s possible to lodge a partner visa application on your own, many couples feel more confident working with a registered migration agent. Here’s why:

• They understand how to structure your relationship narrative.
  
• They ensure you include all required and optional evidence.
  
• They can spot red flags or inconsistencies early.
  
• They handle communication with immigration on your behalf.
  
• They can guide you through complex situations (previous visa issues, bridging visas, etc.).
  

The cost of making mistakes on a partner visa can be high—not just financially but emotionally too. A good partner visa consultant helps reduce stress and improves your chances of success.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a fellow visa in Australia is more than only paperwork – this is an important milestone in your relationship. Whether you are newly married or living together for years, this visa allows you to create your life together in Australia. 

Take time to understand the process, collect your evidence, and seek help when needed. With the right preparation – and perhaps a bit of professional guidance – you will be closer to a step to start your next chapter in Australia, which you love.