Partner visas
Overview
A Partner Visa in Australia allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. It is designed to keep families together and enable couples to live together in Australia. Here is an overview of the Partner Visa category
Visa Categories
- Partner (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 309/100): This visa is for applicants who are outside Australia and are in a genuine and continuing de facto relationship or marriage with an eligible sponsor.
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801): This onshore visa is for applicants who are already in Australia on a temporary visa and are in a genuine and continuing de facto relationship or marriage with an eligible sponsor.
- Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): This visa is for applicants who are outside Australia and are engaged to be married to an eligible sponsor. Once married, they can apply for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) to stay in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
- Sponsor Eligibility: The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. They must also meet certain character and sponsorship requirements.
- Genuine Relationship: The applicant and sponsor must demonstrate that they are in a genuine and continuing de facto relationship or marriage. Evidence such as shared finances, living arrangements, and a history of genuine commitment is required.
Processing Time
Processing times can vary, but partner visas often take several months to 1 year to be granted. Onshore partner visa applicants are granted a bridging visa while their application is processed, allowing them to remain in Australia .