Partner Visa Australia — The Complete 2026 Guide for Applicants
If you are not married, the de facto stream is the pathway that will apply to you, and the evidence it demands is different in important ways. I set those requirements out in full in the de facto partner visa guide, including the twelve month rule and the exceptions to it.
What is the Partner Visa?
The Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) is a two-stage temporary and permanent visa that allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live and work in Australia indefinitely. The visa is granted in two stages: the temporary Subclass 820 is granted first, and the permanent Subclass 801 is granted approximately two years later once the Department of Home Affairs is satisfied that the relationship remains genuine and continuing.
I have been helping couples navigate partner visa applications for 27 years. In that time I have seen virtually every scenario — from straightforward married couples to complex de facto relationships, long-distance partnerships, and applications complicated by prior visa refusals or character concerns.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the partner visa in 2026: which subclass to apply for, what it costs, how long it takes, what evidence you need, the most common reasons applications are refused, and how to give yourself the strongest possible chance of approval.
Which Partner Visa Subclass Do You Need?
There are two main pathways depending on where you are when you apply:
Onshore: Subclass 820/801 (Partner Visa)
If you are in Australia when you apply, you lodge a combined application for the Subclass 820 (temporary) and Subclass 801 (permanent) partner visa. You receive the temporary visa first and, after approximately two years, are assessed for the permanent visa. While your application is being processed, you will generally be granted a Bridging Visa A, which allows you to remain in Australia with work rights.
Offshore: Subclass 309/100 (Partner Visa)
If you are outside Australia when you apply, you lodge a combined application for the Subclass 309 (temporary) and Subclass 100 (permanent) partner visa. You must be outside Australia when the temporary visa is granted.
Prospective Marriage Visa: Subclass 300
If you are engaged but not yet married, you may be eligible for the Subclass 300 Prospective Marriage Visa. This allows you to travel to Australia and marry your partner within 9 months, after which you can apply for the onshore partner visa (820/801) at a reduced application fee.