Partner visas allow eligible spouses, de facto partners and prospective spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia.

The main partner visa pathways include the Onshore Partner Visa (subclass 820/801), Offshore Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) and Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300).

Applicants must generally demonstrate that their relationship is genuine and ongoing and meet the relevant health, character and sponsorship requirements. De facto applicants may also need to meet a 12-month relationship requirement, subject to certain exceptions.

Partner visa applications are usually assessed in temporary and permanent stages, depending on the visa pathway and individual circumstances.

Partner visa applicants generally apply for the temporary and permanent stages together. The temporary visa is granted first, and applicants are usually eligible for permanent visa assessment two years after the original application date, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.