Partner visas are among the most closely scrutinised visas — and the most personal. The Department of Home Affairs needs to see a genuine, continuing relationship, proven with evidence that tells your story clearly.
We prepare onshore (820/801) and offshore (309/100) partner visas, prospective marriage (300) visas, and visas for children and parents, and we act when a family visa is refused.
How we help
- Partner visa strategy and eligibility
- Evidence and relationship statements
- Sponsorship and character issues
- Prospective marriage (300) visas
- Child and parent visas
- Partner visa refusals and ART appeals
Good to know
- Two stages
- Partner visas are granted in two stages: a temporary visa (820 or 309), then the permanent visa (801 or 100), which is generally assessed about two years after you first applied.
- The 12-month rule for de facto couples
- De facto couples generally need to have lived together for 12 months before applying. Western Australia has no relationship register, so most Perth couples need 12 months together or must rely on an exception such as compelling circumstances.
- Fees are high — and rose in July 2026
- Government charges for most visas increased on 1 July 2026, and the partner visa is one of the most expensive. A well-prepared application avoids paying twice.
- Parent visas mean a long wait
- Parent visa places are capped, so most applicants join a queue. Contributory parent visas cost more but are processed much faster than non-contributory ones, which can take decades.
General information current at October 2026, not legal advice. Laws, thresholds and fees change — get advice on your circumstances.
Questions
Do we need to have lived together for 12 months?
For a de facto partner visa, generally yes, unless an exception applies. Married couples don't need to meet the 12-month rule, but still need to show a genuine and continuing relationship.
How long does a partner visa take?
Processing times vary and change with Home Affairs priorities. The permanent stage is generally assessed around two years after you first applied.
What happens if our relationship ends?
In some situations — including family violence by the sponsor, the sponsor's death, or a child of the relationship — you may still be eligible for permanent residence. Get advice quickly.
Can my partner work in Australia?
Once the temporary partner visa (820 or 309) is granted, your partner can live, work and study in Australia while the permanent stage is processed.