How Can I Bring My Spouse/Partner to Australia?
Last updated 12 months ago
Australia is known for its high quality of life, strong economy, and diverse multicultural society. It’s no surprise that many individuals who settle in Australia eventually want to bring their loved ones — including spouses and partners — to join them.
But how exactly do you bring your spouse or partner to Australia? The process can seem complicated at first, but with the right information and preparation, it becomes much more manageable.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bringing your spouse or partner to Australia, including visa options, eligibility requirements, documentation, processing times, and tips for success.
Understanding the Basics: Partner Visas in Australia
To bring your spouse or de facto partner to Australia, you will typically need to apply for a Partner visa. This visa allows the spouse or partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia.
There are two main categories under the Partner visa program:
- Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100) – Apply while the partner is outside of Australia.
- Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) – Apply while the partner is already in Australia on another visa.
Each stream involves a two-stage process:
- Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309 or 820) – Initially granted and allows your partner to stay temporarily.
- Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100 or 801) – Granted approximately 2 years later, depending on eligibility and circumstances.
Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa?
Your relationship must meet certain criteria:
1. Spouse (Married Couple):
- You must be legally married under Australian law.
- The relationship must be genuine and continuing.
- You and your spouse must live together or at least not be permanently separated.
2. De Facto Partner:
- You must have been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months before applying (unless registered in an Australian state or territory).
- You must prove a genuine and ongoing relationship with shared financial, household, and social commitments.
Key Documents You’ll Need
Here’s a general list of documents required for a Partner visa:
Personal Documents:
- Valid passport (for both parties)
- Birth certificates
- Police clearance certificates (from all countries lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years)
Relationship Evidence:
- Marriage certificate or de facto registration
- Joint lease or mortgage documents
- Shared utility bills
- Joint bank account statements
- Photos together (across different occasions and dates)
- Written statements from family and friends (statutory declarations)
Sponsor Documents:
- Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency
- Financial documents (to show ability to support partner)
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times can vary based on your circumstances, the completeness of your application, and demand. As of the latest updates:
- Temporary visa (309/820): 8 to 21 months
- Permanent visa (100/801): Typically granted 2 years after the initial application
For couples in a long-term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with a child), the permanent visa may be granted at the same time as the temporary one.
Costs Involved
Applying for a Partner visa is a significant investment. As of 2025, the base application fee is around AUD $8,850, though this is subject to change. Additional fees may apply for health checks, police certificates, and translations.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Be honest and thorough. Inconsistencies can lead to delays or refusal.
- Organize your documents clearly. Provide as much evidence of your relationship as possible.
- Include statutory declarations. Have friends and family write supporting statements about your relationship.
- Stay updated on visa policies. Immigration rules can change; always check the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Consider professional help. A registered migration agent can guide you through the process and ensure everything is in order.
What Happens After Applying?
Once you’ve submitted your application and paid the fee:
- You’ll be assigned a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) to track your application.
- Your partner may be asked to undergo a health examination and provide biometrics.
- If applying onshore, a Bridging Visa may be granted to allow your partner to stay while the application is processed.
After the temporary visa is granted, your partner can:
- Work and study in Australia
- Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
- Travel in and out of the country
Once the permanent visa is granted, they can enjoy nearly all the rights of a permanent resident.
Alternatives to the Partner Visa
If you’re not yet married or haven’t lived together long enough to qualify for a de facto visa, consider the Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300), also known as the fiancé visa. It allows your partner to come to Australia to marry you within 9 months.
Final Thoughts:
Bringing your spouse or partner to Australia is a significant step — one that requires patience, planning, and a strong application. While the process might feel daunting, many couples successfully reunite and start a new chapter in Australia every year.
If you're unsure where to begin or want to make sure you're on the right track, speaking with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer can be a wise investment. The journey may take time, but with the right approach, you and your partner can soon build a life together in one of the world’s most livable countries.
Interested in bringing your partner to Australia? Leave your questions in the comments or contact our team for a personalized consultation.