Partner visa guide
How partner visa applications work for married, de facto, and prospective marriage pathways.
Overview
What this guide covers
Partner visas allow the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
Applications require extensive relationship evidence across financial, social, household, and commitment aspects.
Onshore and offshore pathways have different processing implications, work rights, and travel conditions during processing.
Audience
Who this guide is for
Couples planning to apply for a partner visa
Applicants onshore awaiting decision
Sponsors wanting to understand obligations
Key information
At a glance
Relationship must be genuine and continuing — evidence spans the full relationship history
Sponsor eligibility and character matter — prior sponsorship limits may apply
Two-stage permanent partner visas involve temporary then permanent stages for many onshore applicants
Prospective Marriage (Subclass 300) is a separate pathway for fiances intending to marry in Australia
Health and character requirements apply to both applicant and sponsor
Relationship evidence
Home Affairs expects evidence across four aspects: financial, household, social, and commitment.
Documents may include joint leases, bank statements, photos with context, statutory declarations from friends and family, and communication records.
Consistency matters — timelines, addresses, and relationship milestones should align across forms and statements.
Onshore vs offshore
Onshore applications are lodged while in Australia with eligible status. Bridging visa rights during processing depend on your situation when you apply.
Offshore applications are processed while outside Australia. Travel and entry timing differ from onshore pathways.
Choosing the correct pathway requires assessing visa status, location, and long-term plans.
Avoid delays
Common mistakes
Issues we see often — and how structured preparation helps avoid them.
Insufficient evidence of de facto relationship
Twelve months cohabitation or registration may be required — document the relationship thoroughly.
Inconsistent statements between partners
Forms and interviews must align on key dates and circumstances.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Services
Related visa services
Continue reading
Related resources
- Character requirements
- Health requirements
- Our process
Step-by-step from consultation to lodgement
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