Partner Visa Categories

Partner Visa Categories

Australia’s Partner Visa program allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia and eventually obtain permanent residency.

Main Partner Visa Categories

Prospective Marriage Visa – Subclass 300

This visa is for offshore applicants who are engaged to marry their Australian partner.

• Grants a temporary stay of 9 to 15 months.

• The applicant must marry the sponsor in Australia within the visa’s validity and then apply for a permanent Partner Visa.

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Onshore Partner Visa – Subclass 820/801For applicants who are already in Australia and in a genuine relationship (marriage or de facto) with an eligible sponsor.

1. Subclass 820 – Temporary Partner Visa

   Allows the applicant to remain in Australia while waiting for the permanent visa decision.

   Must demonstrate a genuine and continuing relationship and usually apply while in Australia.

2. Subclass 801 – Permanent Partner Visa

   Can be applied for about two years after the 820 visa is granted.

   Requires evidence that the relationship is ongoing and genuine, along with other eligibility criteria.

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Offshore Partner Visa – Subclass 309/100

For applicants who apply outside Australia.

1. Subclass 309 – Temporary Partner Visa

   Allows the applicant to enter and live in Australia while waiting for permanent residency.

   The relationship must be proven genuine and ongoing. The applicant usually remains offshore during processing (some exemptions apply).

2. Subclass 100 – Permanent Partner Visa

   Typically granted two years after the 309 visa, upon reassessment.

   In some cases (e.g., relationships of 3+ years or with children), Subclass 100 may be granted directly, bypassing the temporary stage.