Question 1

How do I sponsor my partner to live in Australia?

Accepted Answer

To sponsor your partner for an Australian partner visa, you apply for the Subclass 820 (if your partner is onshore) or Subclass 309 (if your partner is offshore). Both pathways grant a temporary visa first, followed by a permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100) after approximately 2 years, subject to the relationship remaining genuine and continuing.

Question 2

What evidence do I need for a partner visa?

Accepted Answer

Partner visa evidence must cover four categories: financial aspects (joint bank accounts, shared assets, joint liabilities), social aspects (shared social life, recognition by others as a couple), household aspects (shared residence, domestic arrangements), and commitment (correspondence, travel history together, future plans). No single document is sufficient — the Department expects evidence across all four categories.

Question 3

How long does an Australian partner visa take?

Accepted Answer

The current median processing time for the temporary partner visa grant (Stage 1) is approximately 28 months from application. The permanent grant (Stage 2) is generally assessed around the 2-year mark after the temporary grant, assuming the relationship is ongoing and all conditions are met. Processing times fluctuate — check the Department's website for current figures.

Question 4

Can I work while my partner visa is being processed?

Accepted Answer

If you applied for the Subclass 820 (onshore partner visa), you are issued a Bridging Visa A (BVA) upon application, which typically includes work rights. You can work in Australia while your application is being processed. Offshore applicants (Subclass 309) must wait outside Australia until the temporary visa is granted.

Question 5

What is the income threshold for sponsoring a partner?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum income requirement for sponsoring a partner or spouse for an Australian partner visa. Unlike the Parents and Grandparents Program, partner visa sponsorship does not require the Australian sponsor to meet a specific income threshold. However, the sponsor must not be subject to a sponsorship bar imposed by the Department.

Australian Family Visa Guides

Partner Visa Australia (820/801): A Complete 2026 Guide

How to Sponsor Your Parents to Move to Australia — 2026 Guide

Child Visas: Pathways for Bringing Children to Australia (2026)

Aged Dependent Relatives and Other Family Visa Pathways — 2026

Partner Visa 820/801 Requirements — 2026 Guide

Not sure which family visa pathway is right for you?