Australia has long been a popular destination for individuals seeking to reunite with their partners, whether they are married or in a de facto relationship. The Partner Visa program provides a pathway for foreign nationals to live, work, and study in Australia with their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen partner. As of 2025, the eligibility criteria for obtaining a partner visa in Australia have been streamlined to ensure that only those in genuine, committed relationships are granted entry.
Securing a partner visa can be a complex and detailed process, requiring applicants to meet a range of criteria and provide extensive supporting documentation. Whether you are looking to apply for the Subclass 820 (temporary) or Subclass 801 (permanent) visa, understanding the eligibility requirements is crucial for a successful application.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the key eligibility criteria for the Partner Visa in Australia for 2025, outlining each requirement in ascending order. From proving the authenticity of your relationship to meeting health and character standards, this article provides a step-by-step overview of what you need to know to successfully apply for a partner visa and reunite with your loved one in Australia
Eligibility Criteria For Partner Visa In Australia 2025
1. Partner Visa Types
The two main types of partner visas in Australia are the Subclasses 820 (temporary) and 801 (permanent) visas. Applicants can apply for both simultaneously, with the 820 visa granting temporary residence while the permanent 801 visa is processed.
2. Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. This ensures that the relationship is between consenting adults.
3. Relationship Status
You must be in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This relationship can be either a spouse (married partner) or a de facto (unmarried but living together in a genuine relationship).
4. Proof of Relationship
You need to provide evidence of your relationship, which can include photographs, joint financial records, social media evidence, and testimonies from friends and family.
5. Living Together
One of the key criteria is that you and your partner must have been living together for a period of at least 12 months before applying for the partner visa. This may not apply if there is a registered relationship or if you are legally married.
6. Health Requirements
All applicants must meet the health requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. This typically includes undergoing a health examination to ensure you do not have any conditions that could pose a significant public health risk.
7. Character Requirements
Applicants and their family members must meet the character requirements. This involves undergoing a police check to ensure there is no criminal record that could hinder your visa application.
8. Sponsorship by Partner
Your Australian partner must act as a sponsor for your application. They must be at least 18 years old and be willing to support you financially while you reside in Australia. They must also meet character requirements.
9. Not in a Relationship with Another Person
Applicants should not be married or in a de facto relationship with anyone else at the time of the application. This ensures that only genuine, exclusive relationships are recognized for the partner visa.
10. Financial Support
Your sponsor may need to prove their ability to provide you with financial support during your stay in Australia. They must show they are not relying on government welfare or support.
11. Dependents
If your children or other dependents are included in the visa application, you must provide proof that they are financially dependent on you and your partner.
12. Visa Refusals
If either you or your partner have had a previous partner visa application refused or canceled, this could affect your eligibility. It is essential to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and not an attempt to circumvent immigration laws.
13. Marital Status Documentation
If you are married, you must provide an official marriage certificate. For de facto relationships, proof of your relationship’s duration and commitment must be submitted.
14. Temporary Visa Waiting Period
While waiting for the permanent visa (Subclass 801), applicants must hold the Subclass 820 (temporary partner visa). This allows the visa holder to stay in Australia until the permanent visa is granted.
15. English Proficiency (for applicants over 18)
Applicants may be required to demonstrate basic English proficiency. This can be done by providing proof of English language qualifications or meeting certain exemptions (such as age or health conditions).
16. Shared Assets and Financial Obligations
Demonstrating shared financial responsibilities with your partner is key. This could include joint bank accounts, shared loans or mortgages, or mutual bills.
17. Duration of Relationship
For de facto couples, evidence that your relationship has been ongoing for a minimum of 12 months is required. However, this criterion can be waived in cases of compelling circumstances (e.g., pregnancy or children).
18. Visa Application Process
The partner visa application involves submitting your application online or on paper, including all necessary supporting documents and evidence. Fees must also be paid at the time of submission.
19. Processing Time
Partner visa applications may take several months or even years to process. The waiting period may vary based on the complexity of the case, the applicant’s background, and the number of applications received by the Home Affairs Department.
20. Visa Fee
The partner visa application involves a substantial fee. As of 2025, the cost is subject to change, and applicants should be prepared for significant costs associated with lodging an application.
21. Health Insurance Requirement
Applicants are generally required to obtain health insurance during their stay in Australia. This is especially true if they are on a temporary visa or if their permanent visa has not been granted.
22. Genuine Relationship Requirement
A major part of the application involves proving that your relationship is genuine and continuing. This includes documenting shared responsibilities, social recognition of the relationship, and joint commitments.
23. Character Test for Partner
In addition to the applicant, the partner also needs to meet certain character requirements. If they have a criminal record or a history of visa violations, it could impact your application.
24. Debts to Australian Government
If the applicant or sponsor owes any significant debts to the Australian government, this may impact the partner visa application. It’s important to clear any outstanding debts before applying.
25. Good Faith Relationship
For de facto couples, proof that the relationship has been based on mutual commitment and support is essential. This includes demonstrating shared decision-making and long-term intentions.
26. No History of Family Violence
If either party has a history of family violence, the application will be negatively affected. Evidence of violent behavior will prevent the visa from being approved.
27. Marriage Validity
If applying as a married couple, your marriage must be legally valid in the country where it was performed. Marriages that violate Australian law or are considered illegal will not be recognized.
28. Application Location
Applicants can apply for a partner visa either inside or outside Australia. The location of your application will influence the processing times and conditions of the visa.
29. Proof of Cohabitation
Applicants must demonstrate they have been living together for a certain period, providing evidence such as shared living arrangements, utility bills, and letters addressed to both parties at the same address.
30. Relationship Registration
Couples in a de facto relationship can choose to register their relationship in certain Australian states or territories, which can reduce the evidence required for the visa application.
31. Non-Compliance with Australian Laws
Applicants with a history of violating Australian immigration laws may be ineligible for a partner visa. This includes overstaying a visa or providing false information in a previous application.
32. No Previous Relationships or Marriages
If the applicant or their partner has had previous relationships or marriages, evidence that these have ended must be submitted. Divorce certificates or separation documents may be required.
33. Family Members of the Applicant
Dependent family members, such as children, can also be included in the partner visa application, provided they meet certain criteria and depend on the applicant.
34. Special Considerations for Same-Sex Couples
Same-sex couples are eligible for partner visas under the same criteria as heterosexual couples. Evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship is crucial for approval.
35. Visa Refusals and Appeals
If a partner visa application is refused, applicants have the option to appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). It’s vital to gather new evidence to support the appeal.
36. Living Outside Australia
If the applicant is living outside Australia, they may need to meet additional requirements, such as additional proof of the relationship’s authenticity, before being granted the visa.
37. Previous Partner Visa Application
Applicants who have previously applied for a partner visa but were refused or had their visa canceled need to demonstrate how their situation has changed since the last application.
38. Temporary Visa Rights
While on a temporary partner visa (Subclass 820), the applicant has the right to live, work, and study in Australia. However, the applicant cannot apply for government welfare.
39. De Facto Relationship Evidence
For those in a de facto relationship, providing evidence like joint bank statements, utility bills, and travel records can strengthen the visa application.
40. Criminal Record Checks
Applicants and their partner must undergo criminal record checks from each country they have lived in for 12 months or more during the past 10 years.
41. Eligibility for Dependent Children
Dependent children under the age of 18 are eligible to be included in the partner visa application. If they are 18 or older, they must prove their dependency.
42. Duration of Relationship Documentation
Applicants must provide evidence to demonstrate that the relationship has been ongoing for the specified period, including a mix of written statements and shared living arrangements.
43. Spouse or De Facto Relationship Declaration
A declaration of the relationship’s nature and history from both parties is a required document in the application. This declaration must confirm that the relationship is genuine.
44. Visa Conditions
Partner visas may come with certain conditions, such as maintaining a relationship and adhering to visa rules. If the visa holder fails to comply, their visa can be canceled.
45. Submission of Supporting Documents
It is important to submit all required documents in a complete and accurate manner. Incomplete applications may delay the processing time or result in refusal.
46. Financial Evidence
Financial evidence such as shared bills, joint bank accounts, or business transactions is often required to prove that the couple shares financial responsibilities.
47. Visa Duration
The partner visa duration varies, with the Subclass 820 granting temporary residency for up to two years before the Subclass 801 is processed and the applicant is granted permanent residency.
48. Travel During Application Process
If you are on a temporary partner visa and travel outside Australia during the processing period, it may affect your application or delay the decision-making process.
49. Permanent Residency and Citizenship
After being granted a partner visa and living in Australia for a specified period, applicants may become eligible for permanent residency and Australian citizenship.
50. Seek Professional Assistance
The partner visa application process can be complex. Seeking advice from a registered migration agent or legal professional is highly recommended to ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements and submit the correct documentation.
1. No Misrepresentation or Fraudulent Applications
If there is evidence of misrepresentation or fraudulent documents, your partner visa application will be refused. The Australian Department of Home Affairs takes allegations of fraud seriously, and providing false information can lead to permanent bans from applying for future visas.
52. Language Barrier and Exemptions
If you are unable to meet the standard English language requirements, there are exemptions for certain applicants. Older applicants (over 50 years of age), applicants with medical conditions, or those who have been residents in an English-speaking country for a significant amount of time may not need to prove their English proficiency.
53. No Outstanding Debts to the Commonwealth
If the applicant or their sponsor has any outstanding debts to the Australian government, this may prevent approval of the partner visa application. Debts must be paid in full before the application is processed.
54. Proof of Genuine Commitment
To demonstrate that your relationship is not just for immigration purposes, you must show evidence of mutual commitment. This includes shared future goals, plans, and a life together, such as purchasing a property together or planning future family expansion.
55. De Facto Relationship Documentation
For de facto couples, in addition to evidence of living together for at least 12 months, you may need to show proof of social recognition, such as references from friends or family who can testify to the legitimacy of your relationship.
56. Special Arrangements for Couples with Children
If you have children together or from previous relationships, demonstrating a commitment to the welfare of the children can further support the genuineness of your relationship. Documentation such as birth certificates and parental responsibility agreements are helpful.
57. Separate or Joint Application for Dependent Children
When applying for a partner visa, dependent children under the age of 18 may be included in the application. If a child is over 18 and still financially dependent, you will need to provide further documentation to prove their dependency on the applicant and their partner.
58. Relationship Recognition Across States
While relationship registration is available in some Australian states, it is not mandatory for all applicants. In areas where relationship registration is possible, it may provide additional evidence of a legitimate and long-standing relationship.
59. Proof of Cohabitation in Long-Distance Relationships
For couples who have lived apart due to work, family, or other commitments, providing evidence of the nature of your relationship while living separately is important. Examples include frequent communication logs, travel records showing visits, or evidence of shared financial arrangements.
60. Common-Law Partnerships
In some jurisdictions, de facto relationships or common-law partnerships are recognized. To apply for a partner visa, such couples must prove that they have been living together for at least 12 months and demonstrate a genuine intention to maintain a committed relationship.
61. Minimum 12-Month Relationship Proof (unless exempt)
One of the key requirements is proving that your relationship has been genuine and ongoing for at least 12 months. There are exceptions, such as if you are married, if you have children together, or if your relationship is registered in an Australian state or territory.
62. No History of Contrived Relationships
A contrived relationship occurs when a couple marries or enters a de facto relationship for the sole purpose of securing an immigration benefit. If your relationship is considered contrived, it will not meet the visa eligibility criteria.
63. De Facto Relationship With Financial Dependency
You must show that you are financially dependent on your partner in a de facto relationship. This could include demonstrating that your income is shared or that you contribute equally to the household expenses.
64. Maintaining a Genuine Relationship During the Application Process
While your visa application is being processed, you must maintain a genuine relationship. This means continuing to live together, share responsibilities, and maintain an active and supportive connection.
65. Proximity of Your Relationship
If you and your partner live in different countries, your partner visa application may be subject to additional scrutiny. You will need to provide strong evidence that your relationship is committed and not based on convenience for immigration purposes.
66. Multiple Applications or Divorce Considerations
If either party has applied for a partner visa previously, a history of divorce, or the dissolution of a relationship, this must be disclosed. It will be essential to demonstrate the circumstances of the previous relationship and provide evidence that the current relationship is genuine.
67. Temporary Visa Renewal and Conditions
While waiting for your permanent partner visa (Subclass 801), the temporary Subclass 820 visa may be renewed if needed. However, applicants must continue to meet all requirements of the temporary visa, including providing evidence of continued cohabitation.
68. Sponsor Eligibility and Support for Temporary and Permanent Residency
In addition to fulfilling financial and health requirements, the sponsor must also demonstrate their capacity to support the applicant in both the temporary and permanent residency stages. This includes confirming that they can provide both financial and emotional support to the applicant.
69. Visa Denial Due to False Relationship Claims
Submitting a partner visa application based on false or misrepresented claims about the relationship will likely result in visa denial. This includes cases where applicants falsify documents, such as fake financial records or deceptive relationship claims.
70. Australian National Security Check
In addition to police checks, applicants and their sponsors may also undergo security checks for national security purposes. Any concerns in this regard may influence the outcome of the partner visa application.
71. Living Together for 12 Months
To be considered for the visa, applicants and their partners must prove they have been living together continuously for at least 12 months before applying. In cases where there is a break in living together, the relationship may not meet the eligibility requirement.
72. Child Care and Family Contributions
If either party has children or other dependents, evidence of family care and contribution may strengthen the application. This could involve providing evidence of joint decisions, shared parenting responsibilities, and financial support for children.
73. Returning to Australia After Being Abroad
If you have applied for a partner visa from outside Australia and then return to the country before the visa is granted, your application may still be processed. However, you will need to meet all the entry conditions while waiting for approval.
74. Employer or Third-Party References
In some cases, providing reference letters from employers or other third parties can help confirm the legitimacy of your relationship. These references may describe the nature of your relationship and provide an outside perspective.
75. Visa Outcome Notification and Timelines
Once your application is complete, you will be notified of your visa status. The processing times can vary, and applicants should allow for significant time to pass before receiving a decision.
76. Witness Statements or Testimonies
Some applicants may be asked to provide witness statements or testimonies from friends, family members, or colleagues who can affirm the nature of their relationship. These witnesses can provide additional credibility to the claims made in the application.
77. Significant Financial Investments Together
Evidence of joint investments, such as purchasing property or investments made together, can help demonstrate that the relationship is long-term and genuine. This shows that both partners have made shared financial commitments.
78. Travel and Social Activities Evidence
Evidence of traveling together and engaging in social activities as a couple can help strengthen your case. This can include joint holiday photos, itineraries, and records of joint travel arrangements.
79. Proof of Support from Family Members
Support from your immediate family members, such as parents or siblings, is valuable. A support letter from family members can indicate that they recognize your relationship and can vouch for its authenticity.
80. Online Relationship Proof for Remote Couples
For couples who primarily maintained their relationship online or through long-distance communication, providing proof of digital communication can be essential. This may include shared messages, video calls, or social media interactions.
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