Partner Visa
Australia warmly welcomes spouses and partners of its citizens and permanent residents, offering a range of visa options to join their loved ones and build a life together in this vibrant and diverse country.
At MEA, we understand the intricacies of navigating immigration pathways, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. With a team of qualified lawyers who have decades of experience, we have successfully secured Partner Visas for countless clients, even in the most complex cases.
Let MEA be your trusted partner in reuniting you with your loved one in Australia.
Why Choose the Australia Partner Visa?
The Australia Partner Visa is designed for individuals who are in a genuine and committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Whether you're married, in a de-facto relationship, or engaged, and regardless of whether your relationship is different-sex or same-sex, this visa allows you to join your partner in Australia and build a life together.
Key Benefits of the Australia Partner Visa
Pathway to Reunification
Say goodbye to long-distance relationships and hello to being together with your partner in Australia.
Work and Study Opportunities
Holders of the Australia Partner Visa can work and study in Australia, opening doors to new career prospects and educational pursuits.
Access to Healthcare
Enjoy peace of mind knowing that you and your partner have access to Australia's world-class healthcare system.
Permanent Residency Pathway
The Australia Partner Visa is a stepping stone towards obtaining permanent residency in Australia, offering a pathway to citizenship in the future.
Visa Options Available
There are two main subclasses of the Australia Partner Visa:
Subclass 820/801 Onshore Partner Visa
Subclass 309/100 Offshore Partner Visa
For those applying from within Australia
For those applying from outside Australia
Key Visa Requirement
To be eligible for an Australia Partner Visa, you must:
Relationship Evidence:
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Genuine and Continuing Relationship: You must prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. This can be demonstrated through shared financial responsibilities, living arrangements, social activities, and the emotional support you provide each other.
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De-facto Relationship: If you are in a de-facto relationship, you must have lived together for at least 12 months before applying (unless you have compelling and compassionate circumstances or have registered your relationship in an Australian state or territory that allows it).
Sponsorship:
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Your partner (the sponsor) must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. They must agree to sponsor you and support you financially for your initial stay in Australia.
Meet health and character requirements
Satisfy financial criteria
Adhere to Australian immigration laws and regulations
Australia Partner Visa Application Process
The Australian partner visa application is a two-stage application.
However, you apply for the temporary (subclass 820 or 309) and the permanent partner (subclass 801 or 100) visas simultaneously, streamlining the process and ensuring a smoother transition. This visa allows you to live in Australia while your permanent visa application is processed.
Gather and prepare your documents
Collect all necessary documents, including personal identification, financial records, health and character certificates, and proof of relationship.
Lodge visa applicaiotn
Submit your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Ensure all required documents and evidence are included to avoid delays.
Temporary visa grant
If your application meets the criteria, you will be granted a temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820 or 309), allowing you to live in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
Permanent visa assessment
After approximately two years on the temporary visa, your relationship will be reassessed. You need to apply for the permanent visa application.
If it is still genuine and ongoing, and you meet other criteria, you will be granted the permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801 or 100).
Please note that the information provided above is not an exhaustive list of requirements. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice.
Although every effort has been made to ensure the information is current and accurate, we cannot guarantee its accuracy due to the frequent changes in migration law.
How We Can Assist You
At MEA, we understand that applying for a Partner Visa can be a complex and overwhelming process. Our team of experienced and qualified lawyers is here to provide you with comprehensive support every step of the way.
With decades of experience and a 100% visa granted rate of partner visa, we are committed to ensuring your application meets all requirements and stands the best chance of success.
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What types of Partner Visas are available?There are two main subclasses of Partner Visas: Subclass 820/801 (Onshore Partner Visa): For applicants who are already in Australia. Subclass 309/100 (Offshore Partner Visa): For applicants who are outside Australia.
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Can I apply for a Partner Visa if I am in a same-sex relationship?Yes, Australia recognizes same-sex relationships for Partner Visas. Both different-sex and same-sex couples can apply, whether you are married, engaged, or in a de-facto relationship.
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Do we need to live together to apply for a Partner Visa?If you are in a de-facto relationship, you typically need to have lived together for at least 12 months before applying. Exceptions include compelling and compassionate circumstances or if your relationship is registered in an Australian state or territory.
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How long does the Partner Visa process take?Processing times vary, but it generally takes several months for the temporary visa to be granted. The permanent visa is typically assessed about two years after the temporary visa is granted.
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Can I work or study in Australia on a Partner Visa?Yes, holders of partner visas can work and study in Australia without restrictions.
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What happens if my relationship ends while on a temporary Partner Visa?If your relationship ends while you are on a temporary Partner Visa, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs. Your visa may be cancelled, but there are some exceptions, such as if you have children with your partner or if the relationship ended due to domestic violence.
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Can I access Medicare with a Partner Visa?Yes, holders of a temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820 or 309) and a permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801 or 100) are eligible to access Medicare. Once you have your temporary Partner Visa, you can apply for Medicare.
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Can I include my children in my Partner Visa application?Yes, you can include your dependent children in your Partner Visa application. This allows your children to accompany you to Australia and be granted visas that permit them to live, study, and access healthcare in Australia. A dependent child is generally considered to be: Under 18 years of age, or Over 18 but under 23 years of age, and dependent on you or your partner for financial support (e.g., full-time students). Over 23 years of age but have a disability that makes them dependent on you.