Australia offers various visa options for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens who wish to live together in Australia. The Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) and the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) are among the most popular. These visas allow the partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to enter and live in Australia. Another option is the Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300), which allows individuals to come to Australia to marry their partner. Understanding the requirements, processing times, and application process for these visas can help applicants navigate the complexities of the Australian immigration system.
Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)
What is the Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)?
The Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) is for the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It allows the partner to live in Australia temporarily and eventually permanently.
- Subclass 309: This is the temporary visa, which allows the applicant to stay in Australia while the permanent Partner Visa (subclass 100) is processed.
- Subclass 100: This is the permanent visa, granted to applicants who have held the temporary Partner Visa (subclass 309) and meet the necessary requirements.
Partner Visa 309 Checklist
To apply for the Partner Visa (subclass 309), applicants must provide several documents to support their application. The checklist includes:
- Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, and national ID.
- Relationship Evidence: Marriage certificate, proof of living together, shared financial commitments, and social aspects of the relationship.
- Character Documents: Police clearance certificates from countries where the applicant has lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
- Health Examination: Medical examination results to ensure the applicant meets health requirements.
- Financial Evidence: Proof of financial stability and ability to support oneself in Australia.
Partner Visa 309 Processing Time 2024
The processing time for the Partner Visa (subclass 309) can vary based on several factors, including the completeness of the application, the number of applications received, and the individual circumstances of the applicant. As of 2024, the average processing time is approximately 12 to 18 months. However, it is important to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date processing times.
Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
What is the Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)?
The Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) is similar to the Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) but is applied for onshore, meaning the applicant must be in Australia at the time of application.
- Subclass 820: This is the temporary visa, allowing the applicant to stay in Australia while the permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801) is processed.
- Subclass 801: This is the permanent visa, granted to applicants who have held the temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820) and meet the necessary requirements.
Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
The Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300) allows individuals to come to Australia to marry their partner. This visa is for those who are engaged to be married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Requirements for the Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
- Genuine Relationship: The relationship must be genuine, and both parties must have met in person.
- Intention to Marry: The applicant must intend to marry their partner within the visa validity period.
- Health and Character Requirements: The applicant must meet health and character requirements.
Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) Checklist
- Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, and national ID.
- Relationship Evidence: Proof of engagement, photos, and evidence of time spent together.
- Character Documents: Police clearance certificates.
- Health Examination: Medical examination results.
Partner Visa 820/801 Checklist
To apply for the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801), applicants must provide similar documents to the Partner Visa (subclass 309/100). The checklist includes:
- Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, and national ID.
- Relationship Evidence: Marriage certificate, proof of living together, shared financial commitments, and social aspects of the relationship.
- Character Documents: Police clearance certificates.
- Health Examination: Medical examination results.
- Financial Evidence: Proof of financial stability and ability to support oneself in Australia.
Partner Visa Processing Time
The processing time for Partner Visas (subclass 820/801 and subclass 309/100) can vary. As of 2024, the average processing times are as follows:
- Partner Visa (subclass 309): 12 to 18 months.
- Partner Visa (subclass 100): Additional 12 to 24 months after the subclass 309 visa.
- Partner Visa (subclass 820): 20 to 28 months.
- Partner Visa (subclass 801): Additional 12 to 24 months after the subclass 820 visa.
It is important to note that these times are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications received.
Tourist Visa to Partner Visa Australia
In some cases, individuals in Australia on a tourist visa may wish to apply for a partner visa. While it is possible to apply for a Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) onshore, there are certain conditions to be aware of:
- No Further Stay Condition: If the tourist visa has a “No Further Stay” condition, the applicant cannot apply for another visa while in Australia.
- Bridging Visa: If the applicant applies for a partner visa while on a tourist visa, they may be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) to stay in Australia while their partner visa application is processed.
Partner Visa Cost
The cost of applying for a Partner Visa can be significant. As of 2024, the primary visa application charge for a Partner Visa (subclass 820/801 or subclass 309/100) is approximately AUD 7,850. There may be additional costs for medical examinations, police certificates, and translations of documents.
Dependent Visa Australia
Dependent visas in Australia allow the dependents of a primary visa holder to live in Australia. For partner visas, this typically includes the spouse or de facto partner and dependent children. Dependents must meet health and character requirements and provide evidence of their relationship to the primary visa holder.
Conclusion
Applying for a partner visa in Australia involves navigating a complex process with several requirements and potential challenges. Understanding the different visa subclasses, such as Partner Visa (subclass 309/100) and Partner Visa (subclass 820/801), as well as the Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300), is crucial. Each visa has specific requirements, checklists, and processing times that applicants must consider.
For personalized assistance and to ensure a smooth application process, consider consulting with a professional. At Migration Agents Perth and Migration Expert, we specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of the Australian visa process. Contact us for expert guidance and support.
With the right preparation and assistance, you can successfully obtain a partner visa and join your loved one in Australia.
