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Partner Visa Overview

The Partner visa is an Australia Visa pathway that lets the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia, first temporarily and then permanently. There are two application pathways depending on your location: the onshore pathway (Subclass 820 temporary, leading to Subclass 801 permanent) for applicants in Australia at the time of lodgment, and the offshore pathway (Subclass 309 temporary, leading to Subclass 100 permanent) for applicants outside Australia. Applicants must be legally married or have lived together in a genuine de facto relationship for at least 12 consecutive months before lodging, with some exceptions. Onshore applicants are generally granted a Bridging Visa, allowing them to stay and work in Australia while their application is processed. Approval is decided solely by the Department of Home Affairs.

Partner Visa Fees

Fee TypeGovernment Fee (AUD)
Main Applicant, Combined Temporary and Permanent StagesApprox. $9,095–$11,710
Additional Applicant, Aged 18 or OverApprox. $4,550
Additional Applicant, Under 18Approx. $2,280
Prospective Marriage Visa Holder Applying for Partner VisaApprox. $1,955

 

This single government fee generally covers both the temporary and permanent stages of the Partner visa process. Fees are reviewed periodically and increase from time to time, so figures vary between sources; always confirm the current amount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging. Fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is refused. Exchange rates fluctuate, so INR values are approximate.

Partner Visa Processing Time

Processing time for the Australia Partner Visa is among the longest of the temporary and permanent visa categories, given the depth of relationship evidence required. As of recent published estimates, the onshore temporary stage (Subclass 820) has taken approximately 17 to 24 months for many applications, with the permanent stage (Subclass 801) typically assessed around two years after lodgment, and a further 6 to 12 months for the final permanent decision once eligible. Applicants generally become eligible for permanent visa assessment two years after their initial application. Because the Department expects applications to be “decision-ready” at lodgment, incomplete relationship evidence is a common cause of delay. Processing times vary by pathway and individual circumstances, so check current published estimates before planning.

Required Documents Checklist

Valid Passport
Marriage Certificate or Evidence of De Facto Relationship (12+ months living together, with exceptions)
Evidence of the Relationship's Genuineness (joint finances, shared household, social recognition, commitment)
Sponsor's Evidence of Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or Eligible New Zealand Citizenship
Health Examination Results
Police Clearance Certificates (from countries of residence)
Statutory Declarations from Family or Friends
Passport-sized Photographs
Completed Online Application via ImmiAccount
Previous Passports (showing travel history, if available)

Document requirements are extensive and vary depending on individual circumstances; a well-documented relationship history is essential.

Partner Visa Application Process

Confirm whether you're applying onshore (820/801) or offshore (309/100) based on your location.
Confirm you meet the marriage or 12-month de facto relationship requirement, or an applicable exception.
Create an ImmiAccount and lodge the combined temporary and permanent application.
Attach comprehensive relationship evidence covering all four pillars: financial, household, social, and commitment.
Pay the government Visa Application Charge.
Complete health examinations and provide police certificates.
Wait for the temporary visa decision; onshore applicants may receive a Bridging Visa in the meantime.
After the required waiting period, submit the Stage 2 permanent visa assessment for final decision.

Important Notes

Visa approval depends solely on the decision of the Department of Home Affairs.
Onshore and offshore pathways are separate: 820/801 requires being in Australia at key stages, 309/100 requires being offshore.
A single combined fee generally covers both the temporary and permanent stages.
Applicants generally become eligible for permanent visa assessment two years after their initial application.
The Department expects decision-ready applications; incomplete evidence is a leading cause of delay.
Government fees increase periodically; always confirm the current amount before lodging.
Priority processing may apply in compassionate and compelling circumstances, but is not guaranteed.
Information may vary depending on the specific pathway and individual circumstances.

Why Choose Shivansh Consultants

A Partner visa application demands comprehensive evidence across financial, household, social, and commitment aspects of your relationship. Shivansh Consultants offers documentation support to help you compile a decision-ready file from the outset, reducing the risk of delays. Our thorough application review and personalised guidance are tailored to whether you’re applying onshore or offshore, and we help structure your relationship evidence clearly for the case officer. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance throughout your Australia Visa journey, without ever guaranteeing approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an Australia Partner Visa cost?
The combined government fee for the main applicant is currently in the range of approximately AUD 9,095 to 11,710, covering both the temporary and permanent stages. Fees increase periodically, so confirm the current amount before lodging.
How long does Partner Visa processing take?
The temporary stage has recently taken approximately 17 to 24 months for many applicants, with the permanent stage generally assessed around two years after lodgment, plus a further 6 to 12 months once eligible.

What is the difference between the onshore and offshore Partner Visa pathways?
The onshore pathway (Subclass 820/801) is for applicants in Australia at lodgment, while the offshore pathway (Subclass 309/100) is for applicants outside Australia. Each has specific location requirements at different stages.
Can I work in Australia while my Partner Visa is being processed?
Onshore applicants are generally granted a Bridging Visa, which typically provides work rights and Medicare access while the application is processed.

Is the Partner Visa fee refundable if refused?
No. The Visa Application Charge is generally non-refundable, whether the visa is approved or refused.