Family & Partner Visas

Bringing families together through the right legal pathway

Australia’s family and partner visa programs provide structured, legally defined pathways for spouses, de facto partners, fiancés, and parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents. Each visa subclass carries its own eligibility requirements, processing timelines, and application charges. Our experienced immigration legal team guides applicants and sponsors through every stage from initial eligibility assessment through to final visa grant. 

Subclass 820 / Subclass 801 – Onshore Partner Visa

A two-stage visa pathway for spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents who are applying from within Australia. The Subclass 820 is the temporary stage, and once the relationship has been assessed over time, applicants transition to the permanent Subclass 801.

Subclass 820 – Partner Visa (Temporary)

Granted while the relationship is assessed. Allows the holder to live, work, and study in Australia during the waiting period. Typically granted together with the Stage 2 application lodgement.

Subclass 801 – Partner Visa (Permanent)

Grants permanent residence after the required period. Generally considered two years after the original 820 application was lodged, subject to the relationship being genuine and ongoing.

Subclass 309 / Subclass 100 – Offshore Partner Visa

Designed for partners who are applying from outside Australia. Like the onshore pathway, this is a two-stage process. The Subclass 309 is granted first as a provisional visa, followed by the permanent Subclass 100 once the required criteria are met.

Subclass 309 – Partner Visa (Provisional)

Allows the holder to travel to and stay in Australia while their permanent visa is being considered. May be granted after a waiting period of around 12 to 24 months.

Subclass 100 – Partner Visa (Permanent)

Grants permanent residency once the relationship has been assessed and is confirmed to be genuine and ongoing. Processing times can vary significantly based on individual circumstances.

Subclass 300 – Prospective Marriage Visa

A temporary visa allowing the holder, commonly referred to as a fiancé visa, to travel to Australia and marry their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen sponsor. The marriage must take place within nine months of visa grant.