The Australian Partner visa remains one of the most popular migration pathways, but it demands careful preparation. Lodging a well-structured application can save months of processing time and reduce stress for you and your partner. Here are key tips to guide you through each stage.
Understand the Visa Stages
Partner visas are assessed in two parts:
- Temporary visa (subclass 820 onshore or 309 offshore) – allows you to live and work in Australia while the final decision is made.
- Permanent visa (subclass 801 onshore or 100 offshore) – assessed about two years after the initial lodgement.
Couples who have been together for three years (or two years with dependent children) may be granted the permanent stage immediately. Keep evidence of your long-term relationship ready.
Build a Strong Evidence Portfolio
Organise documents by the four relationship assessment aspects:
- Financial – joint bank statements, shared bills, leases, insurance policies, or major purchases.
- Household – proof of living together, shared chores, utility accounts at the same address.
- Social – photographs, travel itineraries, invitations, social media posts, statutory declarations from friends and family.
- Commitment – personal statements describing how you met, important milestones, and future plans.
Present evidence chronologically to show how your relationship has developed. Label files clearly so case officers can follow your story.
Plan Your Timeline
- Gather documents early, especially overseas police checks which can take weeks.
- Ensure passports remain valid for the entire processing period.
- If lodging onshore, apply before your current visa expires to avoid a gap in lawful status.
- Keep copies of your Acknowledgement of Application and Bridging Visa notices.
Budget for Fees and Associated Costs
- Partner visa application charge (primary applicant) exceeds AUD 8,000 and increases annually.
- Allow for medical examinations, police checks, translations, and professional assistance if required.
- Set aside funds for travel if interviews or evidence collection require interstate or overseas visits.
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Submitting insufficient evidence or missing statutory declarations.
- Providing inconsistent dates or conflicting information between forms and statements.
- Forgetting to update the Department if relationship circumstances change.
- Uploading poor-quality scans or documents not translated by certified translators.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
MARA-registered migration agents can:
- Review your evidence and identify gaps
- Prepare relationship statements and Form 888 declarations
- Monitor deadlines for the permanent stage request
- Liaise with the Department if additional information is required
First Migration Service Centre supports couples from application planning through to visa grant. Contact us for a tailored consultation to ensure your Partner visa submission is complete, persuasive, and ready for assessment.