Family migration
Partner Visas
Onshore, offshore and prospective marriage pathways to build your life with your partner in Australia.
Policy update A decision-ready lodgement standard applies to the Partner program: one request, one response. We prepare every application decision-ready.
Decision-ready standardEligibility
Onshore, offshore or engaged.
Sponsor approval and genuine relationship evidence are required across all three pathways. De facto couples generally need twelve months together, or a registered relationship, before lodging.
Partner (Onshore)
Lodged in Australia. Most applicants who lodge while holding a valid visa move to a Bridging Visa A with work rights while the 820 and 801 stages are assessed. Applying without a current visa is high risk and needs advice first.
Explore this visaPartner (Offshore)
Lodged outside Australia. The provisional 309 is granted first, with the permanent 100 stage to follow.
Explore this visaProspective Marriage
For engaged partners of Australians who have met in person and are both free to marry. The visa is granted for 9 to 15 months; marry before it ends, then lodge the onshore 820/801 application to continue to permanent residence.
Explore this visaThe pathway
Four steps, decision-ready.
Sponsorship
Your partner seeks sponsor approval. Limits apply, including past partner sponsorships and character checks.
Evidence
Compile genuine relationship evidence together.
Lodgement
Lodge decision-ready. Most onshore applicants move to a Bridging Visa A with work rights.
Grant
Temporary stage first, then permanent.
General information only, not immigration advice. Your circumstances matter. Visa requirements, fees and processing times change regularly. Facts on this page last reviewed 15 July 2026. Check current details with the Department of Home Affairs , or speak with us for advice on your situation. Website terms.
Begin with a conversation.
Speak with a MARA-registered migration agent in Melbourne about your pathway. Book a time that suits you.