Partner Visa Pathways: A Complete Guide
Australia offers several visa options for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This guide covers the Prospective Marriage Visa (300), Partner Visa (onshore 820/801), and Partner Visa (offshore 309/100) to help you choose the right pathway for your relationship circumstances.
Quick summary (who should apply for what)
- Subclass 300: Prospective Marriage Visa: For couples who are engaged and want to come to Australia to marry, then transition to a Partner visa onshore. Apply outside Australia; since 1 Jul 2024 it can be granted in or outside Australia.
- Subclass 820/801: Partner (onshore): For couples already married or in a de facto relationship who are in Australia. It’s a two-stage pathway (temporary 820 then permanent 801). You must apply in Australia. Since 25 Nov 2023, it can be granted in or outside Australia.
- Subclass 309/100: Partner (offshore): For married/de facto couples outside Australia. Also two-stage (309 then 100). You must apply outside Australia. Since 25 Nov 2023, it can be granted in or outside Australia.
The essentials
- Relationship status: Married or de facto for Partner visas; engaged for PMV. Partner visas are combined applications (temporary then permanent).
- De facto “12-month” rule & exemptions: Generally you need 12 months as a de facto couple before applying. This can be waived (e.g., if your relationship is registered).
- Where you must be to apply: 820 in Australia; 309 outside Australia; 300 outside Australia at lodgement.
Money & timing (as of 1 July 2025)
Fees change periodically. Always confirm before you lodge.
| Visa Type | Primary Applicant Fee | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Partner 820/801 (onshore) or 309/100 (offshore) | AUD $9,365 | Primary applicant only |
| Prospective Marriage 300 | AUD $9,365 | Primary applicant only |
| Transitioning from PMV to 820 | AUD $1,560 | At the 820 stage, $0 at 801 stage |
(Additional dependent charges apply.)
Processing times: Vary case-by-case; use Home Affairs’ Processing time guide rather than relying on static numbers.
Travel & bridging visas (onshore applicants)
- If you lodge 820 in Australia, you’re typically granted a Bridging visa A (BVA) that activates when your current visa expires.
- BVA doesn’t include travel and return while your partner visa is processing, apply for a Bridging visa B (BVB).
- Check your BVA grant letter/VEVO for work conditions (these can vary).
PMV (Subclass 300)
- What it does: Temporary visa to enter Australia, marry within 9 to 15 months, then apply for Partner (820/801) onshore.
- Lodgement & grant: Apply offshore; grants may occur in or outside Australia (rule in place since 1 Jul 2024).
- Typical next step: After marriage, lodge 820/801 (reduced VAC applies to many PMV holders; see fees above).
Choosing the right pathway
- Pick PMV (300) if you’re engaged, currently outside Australia, and want to enter, marry, then transition to partner PR.
- Pick Partner onshore (820/801) if you meet partner eligibility and are already in Australia on a visa that lets you lodge 820.
- Pick Partner offshore (309/100) if you meet partner eligibility and are outside Australia.
Evidence that actually matters (what case officers look for)
While Home Affairs doesn’t publish a “magic list,” successful cases usually show a consistent story across: shared finances, shared household, social recognition, and long-term commitment (statements, joint accounts/leases, travel records, photos, declarations, etc.). Always align your documents to the legal tests in the regs (e.g., de facto definition and 12-month/registration rules).
