What is a Partner Visa in Australia?
A Partner Visa Australia permits you to stay with your spouse or de facto partner in Australia, provided your partner is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Both married and de facto couples can apply if you meet the eligibility criteria.This visa grants you permission to work, study, and reside in Australia while your application is being processed. The visa has two phases:
- Temporary phase – Subclass 820 (for people in Australia) or 309 (for people outside Australia)
- Permanent phase – Subclass 801 (in Australia) or 100 (outside Australia)
Key Partner Visa Australia Requirements
To be eligible for a partner visa, you need to meet these criteria:
- Show that your relationship with your partner is genuine and continues over time.
- Show evidence of your shared life, such as joint bank accounts, shared bills, or pictures together.
- Your partner must be a qualified sponsor — an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Pass all financial, health, and character checks required by the visa.
- Get through character and police checks.
- Turn in full and accurate paperwork.
Have all your papers ready to avoid setbacks.
Documents to Prove a Genuine Relationship
Proof of a true partnership is key. Typical files include:
- Joint bank statements or bills you pay together.
- Lease or property ownership papers
- Photos from family events or trips
- Statements from friends or family
- Records of calls, messages, or emails
Strong evidence helps show your relationship is genuine, which is required for the visa.
Financial and Health Requirements
You must prove you can support yourself and your partner.
- Show bank statements and proof of income.
- Provide details of rent, mortgage, or shared expenses.
- Complete required health checks.
These checks ensure applicants meet Australia’s health and safety standards.
English Language & Character Criteria
Some applicants need to meet English language standards. Approved tests may be required.
All applicants must also meet character requirements:
- Submit police clearance certificates from each country you lived in for 12 months or more.
- Show good conduct to avoid visa refusal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants often make simple errors that cause delays:
- Missing relationship evidence
- Incomplete or wrong forms
- Outdated documents
- Wrong contact details
- Providing false or misleading information
Double-check everything before submitting your application.
How Bombay Migrations Can Help
Applying for a partner visa in Australia can be complicated. At Bombay Migrations, we help you:
- Check your eligibility
- Review your documents
- Prepare your visa application.
- Ensure all requirements are met.
- Guide you through each step.
Our MARA-registered immigration consultants review your documents and help prepare your Partner Visa Australia application accurately.
💬 Ready to start your partner visa application?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a de facto partner apply for a Partner Visa?
Yes, provided you have been living together in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months and show proof of evidence.
How long will it take for a Partner Visa application to be processed?
It can range from a few months to more than a year after you apply, depending on which one you apply for.
Do I have to be married?
No, you don’t have to be married. Partners in committed de facto relationships can also apply.
What is an eligible New Zealand citizen?
An eligible New Zealand citizen is someone who entered Australia before 26 February 2001 or lived in Australia for at least 12 months during the two years before that date. You can confirm details on the Home Affairs site
Can I work while I wait for my Partner Visa?
Yes, you can live, work, and study in Australia on a temporary visa.
Still have questions about your eligibility?
Speak with our experts for personalised guidance.