Permanent Residence (Family)
The Partner visa (subclass 309 and 100) is for the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This is an offshore visa where you apply for both the temporary (309) and permanent (100) visas together while outside Australia.
Duration
Temporary (309) then Permanent (100)
Processing
Temporary (309): 18-26 months | Permanent (100): 12-51 months (total process can take 2-5 years)
Application Fee
AUD $9,095 (main applicant) + $4,550 per dependent 18+ + $2,280 per dependent under 18
Live with your partner in Australia
Work and study in Australia without restrictions
Access to Medicare
Enroll in English language classes
Travel to and from Australia
Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting requirements
Include dependent children in application
From Nov 2023: Can be granted regardless of location
Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen
Be married or in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months
Be sponsored by your partner
Meet health and character requirements
Apply while outside Australia (for subclass 309)
Provide evidence of genuine relationship
Sponsor must meet eligibility requirements
Pathway to permanent residence
Full work and study rights from day one
Access to healthcare through Medicare
Bring dependent children
No points test required
No occupation list restrictions
Can transition to permanent visa after relationship duration
Subclass 309 (temporary) is granted first, then subclass 100 (permanent) is granted after demonstrating ongoing relationship (usually 2 years)
Department of Home Affairs
Official visa information page
Important: Visa requirements and fees may change. Always verify current information on the official Department of Home Affairs website before applying.