Spouse Visa

Australian Spouse (Partner) Visa

The Australian Spouse (Partner) Visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live, work, and study in Australia. It is one of the most popular visa pathways for couples looking to build their lives together in Australia.

Types of Partner Visas

1. Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)

   • Apply while you are inside Australia.

   • Subclass 820: Temporary visa.

   • Subclass 801: Permanent visa (granted later after meeting requirements).

2. Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)

   • Apply while you are outside Australia.

   • Subclass 309: Temporary visa.

   • Subclass 100: Permanent visa (after requirements are met).

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for an Australian Partner Visa, you must:

• Be married to, or in a genuine de facto relationship (at least 12 months), with an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen.

• Provide evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship, including:

  • Joint finances (bank accounts, bills, rent, etc.)

  • Cohabitation proof (living together documents)

  • Social evidence (photos, invitations, social recognition)

  • Commitment proof (communication, future plans, children if any)

Required Documents

• Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)

• Marriage certificate or de facto evidence

• Proof of cohabitation and financial dependence

• Character documents (police clearances)

• Health check (medical examination)

Processing Times

• Temporary visa: 12–24 months (average)

• Permanent visa: Granted usually 2 years after the temporary visa, unless you’ve been in a long-term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with children), in which case you may get direct permanent residency.

Costs

• Application fee (set by the Department of Home Affairs): approx. AUD $8,850 (as of 2025).

• Additional costs: Medical exams, police checks, translations.

Benefits of the Spouse Visa

• Live, work, and study in Australia.

• Access Medicare (public healthcare).

• Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible.

• Travel freely in and out of Australia while the visa is valid.

How We Can Help

Applying for a Spouse Visa can be complex and stressful due to strict evidence requirements. Our registered migration agents can:

• Assess your eligibility.

• Guide you on relationship evidence to strengthen your application.

• Prepare and lodge your application with the Department of Home Affairs.

• Handle communication and updates with immigration on your behalf.

• Increase your chances of success and reduce delays.

Ready to start your journey together in Australia?
Book a consultation today and let our migration experts help you reunite with your loved one.