- Subclass 300 (Prospective Marriage Visa) – Fiancé(e) Visa for Australia
- Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820 & 801)
- Subclass 309/100 – Partner Visa – Offshore Temporary & Permanent Partner Visa
Australian partner visas: the key facts
A partner visa lets the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia. It is a two-stage process: a temporary visa first, then permanent residence usually about two years later. Apply onshore as subclass 820/801 or offshore as subclass 309/100. A Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) visa is a separate option for engaged couples.
| Visa | Applied from | Charge (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 820/801 partner visa | Onshore | 11,710 |
| Subclass 309/100 partner visa | Offshore | 11,710 |
| Subclass 300 prospective marriage visa | Offshore | 11,710 |
| Subclass 820/801 where you hold a subclass 300 visa | Onshore | 1,955 |
Additional applicant aged 18 or over: AUD 5,860 (AUD 980 for the subclass 300 holder pathway). Charges verified against the Department of Home Affairs on 6 September 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Australian partner visa cost?
The Department of Home Affairs visa application charge for a partner visa is AUD 11,710 for the main applicant, whether you apply onshore as subclass 820/801 or offshore as subclass 309/100. Each additional applicant aged 18 or over is AUD 5,860. The single charge covers both the temporary and permanent stages. Charges verified with the Department of Home Affairs on 6 September 2026.
What is the difference between the subclass 820 and subclass 309 partner visas?
The difference is where you are when you apply. Subclass 820 is the onshore temporary partner visa, applied for while in Australia, leading to subclass 801 permanent residence. Subclass 309 is the offshore temporary partner visa, applied for while outside Australia, leading to subclass 100. The relationship and evidence requirements are substantially the same for both.
Is the partner visa cheaper if I hold a Prospective Marriage visa?
Yes. If you hold a Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) visa, marry your prospective spouse and apply for the subclass 820/801 partner visa before the subclass 300 visa ends, the visa application charge is AUD 1,955 rather than AUD 11,710, with AUD 980 for each additional applicant aged 18 or over. Charges verified on 6 September 2026.
How long must we have been together to apply for a partner visa?
There is no minimum period for married couples. For de facto partners, the relationship must generally have existed for at least 12 months immediately before applying, unless the relationship is registered with an Australian state or territory or compelling circumstances apply. The Department assesses the financial, social, household and commitment aspects of the relationship.
Can I work in Australia while my partner visa is processed?
If you applied onshore for a subclass 820 visa and hold a bridging visa with work rights, you can generally work while the application is processed. Subclass 309 applicants apply from outside Australia and gain work rights on grant of the temporary visa. Conditions depend on your current visa, so check your specific grant notice.
Related pages
- Onshore partner visa (subclass 820/801)
- Offshore partner visa (subclass 309/100)
- Prospective marriage visa (subclass 300)
- Speak to a registered migration agent
This page is general information only and does not take your circumstances into account. Complex cases need personal advice from a registered migration agent. Immigrad is operated by Oceans Consultancy Pty Ltd; Gaurav Duggal, MARN 1805710. Contact Immigrad.