Partner visa (apply overseas)
Partner visa (apply overseas)
Visa Cost
AUD 9,365
Processing Time
About 10-14 months (50%) / 22-28 months (90%)
Eligibility
- The applicant is outside Australia
- Married to or the de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
- The relationship is genuine and continuing
Key Information
Validity / Stay / Residence
309 is a temporary visa (you must be outside Australia at application and grant); 100 is a permanent visa allowing indefinite residence.
Eligible Dependants
Can include family members such as dependent children; both accompanying and non-accompanying family members must meet health requirements.
PR / Permanent Residence Pathway
The 100 stage of this visa is permanent residence (PR). When lodging offshore you apply for 309 (temporary) + 100 (permanent) at the same time; the 100 is assessed for PR after about 2 years; if the relationship is 3 years, or 2 years with a child, you can be granted 100 directly in one step; citizenship is possible later once eligible.
View provisional-to-permanent transition overview →Common Visa Conditions
Full explanations of condition codes are in the Visa Conditions Lookup
Application Steps
Prepare Documents
Prepare Documents
Prepare relationship evidence and other materials
- Gather relationship evidence
- Prepare identity and character documents
- Undergo a health examination
Lodge Application
Lodge Application
Lodge the 309/100 visa application online
- Apply for 309 (temporary) and 100 (permanent) at the same time
- Pay the visa fee
- Wait for the decision
Required Documents
| Document Name | English Name | Required | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passport | Passport | Passport | - | |
| Marriage Certificate | Marriage Certificate | Marriage certificate or relationship evidence | - | |
| Relationship Evidence | Relationship Evidence | Evidence of the genuineness of the relationship | - | |
| Sponsor Documents | Sponsor Documents | The sponsor's identity and financial materials | - | |
| Police Clearance | Police Clearance | Police clearance | - | |
| Health Examination | Health Examination | Health examination report | - |
FAQ
What is the difference between 309 and 820?
Common Refusal Reasons
- Insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship (de facto relationship under 12 months with no compelling reason)
- The sponsor is ineligible or subject to the 5-year sponsorship limit
- Health or character (police clearance) requirements not met
- The number and quality of witness declarations/relationship evidence are insufficient
- The applicant is not outside Australia at grant or application (failing a core requirement)
- Untruthful documents triggering PIC 4020
Can you appeal after a refusal? See the Visa Refusal & Review (ART) Guide.