Partner Visa (820/801 and 309/100) 2026
The Partner visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. The onshore pathway is subclass 820 (temporary) followed by 801 (permanent). The offshore pathway is subclass 309 (temporary) followed by 100 (permanent).
Last updated: April 2026 | Written by Kunal Sitlani, MARN 2418523
Who Is This Visa For?
People in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. You must provide substantial evidence of your relationship across four categories: financial, social, household, and commitment.
2026 Eligibility Requirements
- Genuine and continuing relationship
- Sponsor is Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen
- Evidence across four relationship categories
- Meet health and character requirements
- Statutory declarations from two witnesses
- Relationship registered or living together for 12+ months (de facto)
Current Fees and Processing Times
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $11,710 | Covers both temporary and permanent stages. From 1 July 2026. |
| Processing time (temporary) | 8-14 months | |
| Processing time (permanent) | 18-24 months | After temporary grant |
How Studynash Helps
Partner visas are one of the most document-heavy visa categories. We help you compile evidence across all four relationship pillars, prepare statutory declarations, and organise your application so it tells a clear story. We manage communication with the Department throughout what can be a lengthy process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Partner visa cost?
The application fee is $11,710 from 1 July 2026, which covers both the temporary and permanent stages.
How long does the Partner visa take?
The temporary visa is typically processed in 8 to 14 months. The permanent stage follows 2 years later.
Can I work on a Partner visa?
Yes. You receive a bridging visa with work rights after lodging your onshore application.
What evidence do I need for a Partner visa?
Evidence across four categories: financial (joint accounts, shared expenses), social (photos, statements from friends), household (living together), and commitment (future plans, relationship history).
Do I need to be married?
No. De facto partners are eligible if they have been in a relationship for at least 12 months or have registered their relationship.
Can same-sex couples apply?
Yes. Same-sex couples are treated the same as opposite-sex couples for partner visa purposes.
What if my partner is overseas?
Apply for the offshore Partner visa (309/100). Your partner applies from outside Australia.
Can the Partner visa be refused?
Yes. Common reasons include insufficient relationship evidence, character issues, or concerns about the genuineness of the relationship.
Ready to Apply?
Talk to a MARA-registered agent about your Partner Visa (820/801 and 309/100) application.
Our team reviews your profile within 24 hours and recommends the right next step.