Love stories that span countries are beautiful—but when it’s time to bring your life together under one roof in Australia, there’s some serious paperwork involved. The Australian partner visa is the official way to make that happen, but it’s not as simple as checking a few boxes and waiting for approval. It takes planning, evidence, and often, expert help.

If you’re looking to apply or just starting to explore your options, this guide will walk you through the partner visa Australia requirements, costs, processing times, and how a migration agent for partner visa support can ease the process.

What Is a Partner Visa and Who Is It For?

The Australian partner visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live and stay in Australia. There are two main streams depending on whether you apply inside or outside Australia:

  • Onshore (subclass 820/801) – You apply while in Australia.

  • Offshore (subclass 309/100) – You apply while outside Australia.

The process is broken into two stages: a temporary visa first, followed by permanent residency if your relationship remains genuine over time.

Partner Visa Australia Requirements

Before diving in, make sure you and your partner meet the partner visa Australia requirements. These include:

  • Genuine Relationship: You must prove you’re either married or in a de facto relationship. For de facto, generally you’ll need at least 12 months of cohabitation, or a registered relationship.

  • Australian Sponsor: Your partner must be eligible to sponsor you.

  • Character and Health: Background checks and medical exams are part of the process.

  • Evidence: Immigration requires detailed proof—photos, shared finances, joint leases, travel history, and more. Every part of your life together counts.

A partner visa consultant can help ensure your application meets all the legal and evidential criteria, reducing the risk of refusal or delay.

How Much Does the Partner Visa Cost?

Let’s talk money. The partner visa Australia cost is one of the steepest among Australian visas. As of 2025, the base government application charge is AUD $8,850. On top of that, you’ll also need to consider:

  • Medical exams

  • Police clearances

  • Document translations

  • Agent fees (if using professional help)

It’s a big investment, but for most couples, it’s worth every cent if it means being together in Australia long-term.

Partner Visa Australia Processing Time

One of the most challenging parts of the process is the wait. The partner visa Australia processing time varies depending on the specifics of your application and the current caseload.

Here’s a rough estimate:

  • Temporary visa: 12 to 24 months

  • Permanent visa: Typically another 12 to 24 months after the temporary one is granted

Applications with missing or unclear information can take even longer. That’s why so many couples choose to work with a partner visa migration agent who understands the system inside and out.

Why Work With a Partner Visa Consultant?

You can certainly apply on your own, but having a migration agent for partner visa matters when it comes to handling complexities. These professionals know what immigration looks for, how to present your evidence, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Here’s how a partner visa consultant can support you:

  • Prepares and reviews your application

  • Organizes your documents and evidence

  • Submits the application on your behalf

  • Communicates with the Department of Home Affairs if needed

They can be particularly helpful if your case involves complications—like a short de facto relationship, time apart, or previous visa refusals.

Looking for the Best Migration Agent for Partner Visa?

Not all agents are created equal. If you're serious about getting approved, it pays to find the best migration agent for partner visa applications—someone experienced, registered with MARA, and easy to talk to.

If you're based in Queensland, a partner visa agent Brisbane can provide local, in-person support. That’s especially valuable if you prefer face-to-face help or need assistance understanding Australian legal terms.

Things to look for in a great migration agent:

  • Strong success track record with partner visas

  • MARA registration

  • Transparent pricing

  • Personalized service

Final Thoughts

Applying for a partner visa is more than just a bureaucratic step—it’s a commitment to building a shared life in Australia. Whether you're navigating the partner visa Australia requirements, dealing with the partner visa Australia cost, or waiting through the partner visa Australia processing time, having a solid plan (and a good partner visa migration agent) can make the process far less stressful.