Family unity is a priority in Australia, and the Marriage (Partner) Visa is one of the main routes for immigrants to join their spouses. Marriage or de facto relationships with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen may qualify you for a partner visa, which allows you to migrate and eventually settle in Australia.
A step-by-step guide to securing an Australia Marriage Visa explains the process, requirements, and benefits.
Step 1: Become familiar with Australia’s Marriage Visa
Onshore partners qualify for Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801), while offshore partners qualify for Subclass 309/100.
- Australian citizens and permanent residents’ spouses.
- Including same-sex couples as de facto partners.
Visas are granted in two stages:
- Temporary Visa (Subclass 820 or 309) – allows you to live and work in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
- Visas for permanent residence (subclass 801 or 100) – usually granted after two years if the relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Step 2: Verify your eligibility
Eligibility of sponsors
Sponsors must be:
- A citizen of Australia, a permanent resident of Australia, or a citizen of New Zealand.
- Aged 18 or older.
- We can provide you with accommodation and financial support.
An applicant’s eligibility
It is necessary for the applicant to:
- De facto relationship (usually 12 months) or legally married to the sponsor.
- Health and character requirements must be met.
- Establish a genuine and continuing relationship.
Step 3: Collect the necessary documents
- Certificate of marriage or proof of de facto relationship.
- Documents of identification and passports.
- To prove the relationship, take photos with each other, create a joint bank account, sign a lease agreement, and keep a travel diary.
- Documents proving the sponsor’s Australian citizenship or residency.
- Certificates of police clearance.
- Results of a health examination conducted by an approved clinic.
Step 4: Application Submission
- Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to create an ImmiAccount.
- Apply online for a visa.
- Both applicant and sponsor documents must be uploaded.
- There is an AUD 8,000 fee for partner visas (subject to change).
- Keep a copy of your acknowledgment receipt after you submit your application.
Step 5: Await processing
- The processing time varies, but it is usually between 12 and 24 months.
- Interviews may be conducted with applicants.
- During the assessment, additional documents may be requested.
Step 6: Grant of a temporary partner visa
A Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/309) will be issued if the application is approved. This allows you to:
- Studying, working, and living in Australia.
- Having access to Medicare (Australia’s healthcare system).
- Traveling within and outside Australia is free.
Step 7: Granting of the Permanent Partner Visa
It takes about two years for you to qualify for a Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100) if the relationship is genuine and ongoing. It provides the following:
- Australian permanent residency.
- Full rights to work and study.
- After completing residency requirements, applicants are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
Step 8: The Australian Marriage Visa’s benefits
- Australia is where you live with your spouse.
- Unrestricted work and study.
- Benefits and healthcare access.
- Citizenship and permanent residency pathways.
- Future ability to sponsor family members.
A final thought
An Australia Marriage Visa (Partner Visa) is a reliable way for migrants to move to Australia with their loved ones. As long as couples follow the proper steps, prepare the appropriate documents, and demonstrate a genuine relationship, they can achieve permanent residency and eventually citizenship in Australia.