Joining your partner in Australia is one of the most common reasons to migrate, and one that raises the most questions. This is a general information guide — not an assessment of your case — so you understand how it’s usually structured before looking at it in detail.
What is the partner visa?
Broadly, it’s the path designed for the partner of someone who can sponsor — generally an Australian citizen, a permanent resident or, in certain cases, an eligible New Zealand citizen. The official information sets out the steps; it isn’t an automatic process.
Onshore or offshore, and in two stages
General information broadly distinguishes by where you are when you apply:
- Inside Australia — the path usually identified with subclasses 820/801.
- Outside Australia — the path usually identified with subclasses 309/100.
In both cases it’s usually described as a two-stage process: first a temporary visa and, later, the permanent one. Which fits your situation depends on several factors.
Showing a genuine relationship
The heart of these applications is usually evidencing that the relationship is genuine and continuing. Official information groups the evidence into aspects such as the household, finances, the social side and mutual commitment. There’s no single formula: what matters is the whole picture, built over time.
Married and de facto
Broadly, both a spouse (married) and a de facto partner are covered. For de facto relationships, relationship registration and the length of time living together often matter, with nuances by case. Confirming what applies to your situation is part of what’s worth reviewing.
Things worth keeping in mind
- It’s usually one application designed in two stages (temporary then permanent).
- Evidence is built over time; starting to organise it early helps.
- Your partner’s sponsorship in Australia is part of the process.
- Rules and requirements update; it’s worth confirming what’s current.
Myth vs Reality
Four ideas that come up again and again — and what the general information says.
Myth“It has to be marriage.”RealityGenerally, both a spouse and a de facto partner are covered, as long as the relationship can be evidenced.
Myth“Permanent residence comes through straight away.”RealityIt’s usually described as a two-stage process: temporary first, then permanent later on.
Myth“A couple of photos is enough.”RealityWhat’s usual is a body of evidence (living together, finances, social life, commitment) built up over time.
Myth“It doesn’t matter whether I’m in or outside Australia.”RealityThe path usually differs depending on where you are when you apply (820/801 inside Australia; 309/100 outside).
The next step
Every situation has its nuances, and every country of origin its own. If you’d like to look at how this applies to your case, contact us and we’ll go through it with you.
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General information · not individual legal advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-03 · Source: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au