Partner and family visas

Partner visas

Advice for couples applying to live together in Australia, whether you are applying from inside or outside the country.

General information, not legal advice. This page sets out how the law generally applies. It does not take account of your circumstances, and you should get advice about your own situation before acting on it. The official sources this page is written from are listed on it; where they differ from anything here, they are the authority.

Who this visa is for

Married and de facto couples

A partner visa lets the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia. It is usually a two-stage process: a temporary visa first, then a permanent visa assessed later.

The Department assesses the relationship across four aspects: the financial aspects, the nature of the household, the social aspects, and the nature of your commitment to each other. Evidence for each aspect matters more than the volume of documents.

De facto applicants generally need to show the relationship has existed for at least twelve months before applying, unless an exception applies, such as a registered relationship in some states and territories.

How we help

Support at every stage

Eligibility and strategy

We confirm which subclass fits, whether to apply onshore or offshore, and how your history could affect the outcome.

Evidence planning

A tailored evidence checklist covering all four relationship aspects, plus statutory declarations from friends and family.

Lodgement and follow-through

We prepare and lodge the application, respond to requests for information, and prepare you for the permanent stage.

Questions

Partner visa questions

Can I stay in Australia while my partner visa is processed?

If you apply onshore and hold a valid visa at the time, you will usually be granted a bridging visa that comes into effect when your current visa ends. Conditions vary, so check what applies to you.

Do we need to be married?

No. De facto partners can apply, and same-sex relationships are recognised. Evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship is what matters.

What if my previous visa was refused?

A previous refusal can restrict which visas you may apply for onshore. Speak with us before lodging so we can check whether any bar applies to you.

What you will usually need

Every relationship is different. This list is a starting point, not a substitute for advice.

Identity documents and evidence of your sponsor's status
Evidence of shared finances, such as joint accounts or shared bills
Evidence of your household, such as a lease or correspondence to a shared address
Social evidence, including statutory declarations from people who know you as a couple
Evidence of your commitment, such as your relationship history and future plans
Health and character documents, including police certificates where required