Australia is one of the most popular destinations for couples who want to live together permanently. Many foreign nationals apply for a partner visa to join their Australian spouse or de facto partner. The Australian Partner Visa 2026 provides a legal pathway for partners to live, work, and study in Australia. It also allows for a pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship.
This guide explains the Partner Visa process, eligibility, types, required documents, processing time, costs, and tips in simple English, making it easy for anyone to understand.
What Is the Australia Partner Visa?
The Australia Partner Visa allows a foreign national to live in Australia with their Australian partner. It is designed for both married couples and de facto partners. The visa is issued in two stages: temporary visa (Subclass 820/309) and permanent visa (Subclass 801/100).
The temporary visa allows you to enter and live in Australia while your permanent visa application is processed. After a certain period, usually two years, you may be granted the permanent visa, giving you full rights to live, work, and access services in Australia.
Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa in 2026?
To be eligible for a Partner Visa, you must meet certain criteria. First, your relationship must be genuine and ongoing. You must be married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Second, you must be at least 18 years old. Third, both partners must provide evidence of a mutual commitment and shared life, including financial, social, and household aspects.
Applicants must also meet health and character requirements. Certain medical tests and police clearance certificates are mandatory to ensure eligibility.
Types of Australia Partner Visa
Australia offers two main types of partner visas:
1. Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820 / 309)
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Subclass 820: For applicants already in Australia.
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Subclass 309: For applicants outside Australia.
This visa allows you to live in Australia while your permanent visa application is processed. You can work and study during this time.
2. Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801 / 100)
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Subclass 801: For applicants in Australia.
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Subclass 100: For applicants outside Australia.
This visa is usually granted two years after the temporary visa if the relationship is still genuine and ongoing. Permanent visa holders can live permanently, work, study, and eventually apply for citizenship.
Step-by-Step Process for Australia Partner Visa 2026
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet all relationship, age, health, and character requirements. Gather all necessary documents proving the genuineness of your relationship.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will need:
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Passport and identification documents
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Birth certificates
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Marriage certificate or proof of de facto relationship
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Photos together and social evidence
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Joint financial documents, bank statements, or property ownership
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Police clearance certificates and medical exams
All documents must be accurate and, if needed, translated into English.
Step 3: Apply Online
Applications are submitted online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. You must fill out forms carefully and attach all required documents. Application fees must be paid at this stage.
Step 4: Temporary Visa Assessment
After submission, the immigration department will review your application. They may request additional information or schedule an interview. If approved, you will receive the temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/309).
Step 5: Waiting Period
The temporary visa usually lasts for about two years. During this period, the Department monitors the genuineness of your relationship. You must continue living together and provide updates if requested.
Step 6: Permanent Visa Grant
After two years, if your relationship remains genuine, you will be granted the permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100). You will then have full rights to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
Processing Time for Australia Partner Visa 2026
Processing times vary depending on your country of origin and whether you apply inside or outside Australia. Typically, temporary partner visas take 12–24 months for assessment, while permanent visas may be granted after the required two-year period.
Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or if the Department requests additional evidence. Careful preparation can reduce waiting time.
Costs of Australia Partner Visa
The Partner Visa application fee is significant but necessary. For 2026, the base fee is AUD 7,850 (approximate) for the main applicant. Additional costs may include medical examinations, police clearance, document translation, and migration agent fees if you use one.
Avoid paying high fees to unauthorized agents. Always verify agents’ credentials through the official Australian migration registry.
Benefits of Australia Partner Visa
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Live Permanently in Australia: You and your family can reside legally in the country.
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Work and Study: You can work full-time and pursue education without restrictions.
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Healthcare Access: Permanent visa holders are eligible for Medicare.
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Pathway to Citizenship: After fulfilling residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
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Include Dependents: Your children or spouse can be included as secondary applicants.
Common Reasons for Partner Visa Refusal
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Fraudulent or fake relationship – Immigration authorities are strict about genuine partnerships.
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Incomplete or incorrect documentation – Missing or invalid papers can cause delays or rejection.
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Health or character issues – Criminal records or serious health conditions may affect eligibility.
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Financial or sponsorship issues – Sponsors must demonstrate capacity to support the applicant if needed.
Tips for a Successful Application
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Provide clear evidence of your relationship – photos, messages, joint accounts, shared bills.
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Keep all documents organized and accurate.
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Respond promptly to requests for additional information from the Department.
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Use a registered migration agent if needed, but verify their license.
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Be honest about all aspects of your relationship and personal history.
Life After Receiving Australia Partner Visa
Once you receive your Partner Visa, you can live anywhere in Australia. You can work in any sector, study in Australian universities or colleges, and enjoy all the benefits of permanent residency.
Your children can attend school or university as permanent residents. After two years, you may apply for citizenship, provided you meet the residency and character requirements.
Final Thoughts
Australia Partner Visa 2026 is a legal and reliable pathway for foreign nationals to join their spouses or de facto partners. While the process requires time, effort, and documentation, the long-term benefits are significant.
By carefully following the step-by-step process, maintaining genuine relationships, and preparing documents properly, applicants can successfully obtain both temporary and permanent partner visas.
This visa offers a chance to live permanently in Australia, work freely, study, and eventually apply for citizenship. With proper planning and patience, couples can achieve their dream of building a life together in Australia.
