Partner & Family Visas

Reunite with your loved ones in Australia with expert legal support

Partner & Family Migration Overview

Partner and family visas allow Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their partners and family members to live in Australia permanently. These visas are based on genuine relationships and family connections.

The partner visa process can be complex and emotionally challenging. Our experienced migration lawyers provide compassionate, expert guidance to help you navigate the requirements and reunite with your loved ones in Australia.

Partner Visa Types

Subclass 820/801

Partner Visa (Onshore)

For partners who are in Australia when applying. The 820 is a temporary visa, and the 801 is the permanent visa granted after assessment.

  • Apply while in Australia
  • Two-stage process (temporary then permanent)
  • Work and study rights on 820 visa
  • Processing time: 12-24 months

Subclass 309/100

Partner Visa (Offshore)

For partners who are outside Australia when applying. The 309 is a temporary visa, and the 100 is the permanent visa granted after assessment.

  • Apply from outside Australia
  • Two-stage process (temporary then permanent)
  • Travel to Australia on 309 visa
  • Processing time: 12-24 months

Evidence Requirements Explained

To prove your relationship is genuine and continuing, you must provide comprehensive evidence across four key areas:

1. Financial Aspects

  • Joint bank accounts
  • Joint ownership of assets
  • Joint financial commitments
  • Shared household expenses

2. Nature of Household

  • Joint rental agreements
  • Utility bills in both names
  • Evidence of living together
  • Household responsibilities

3. Social Aspects

  • Photos together over time
  • Statements from friends/family
  • Social media evidence
  • Joint travel and activities

4. Nature of Commitment

  • Duration of relationship
  • Knowledge of each other
  • Plans for the future
  • Emotional support evidence

Common Refusal Reasons

Insufficient Relationship Evidence

Not providing enough evidence across all four relationship aspects. We help you compile comprehensive evidence that meets Department requirements.

Genuineness Concerns

The Department may question the genuineness of your relationship. We help you present a strong case with detailed evidence and statements.

Character or Health Issues

Character or health issues can lead to refusal. We provide guidance on addressing these concerns and obtaining necessary waivers.

Incomplete Documentation

Missing or incorrectly formatted documents can result in refusal. We ensure all documentation is complete and properly presented.

Our Legal Approach

Comprehensive Evidence Collection

We guide you through collecting and organizing all necessary evidence to prove your genuine relationship.

Professional Statement Preparation

We help you prepare compelling relationship statements that effectively communicate your genuine commitment.

Application Review & Lodgement

Thorough review of your application before lodgement to ensure all requirements are met.

Ongoing Support

Continuous support throughout the process, including responding to requests for further information.

Processing Times

Partner visa processing times vary depending on several factors:

  • Onshore Partner Visas (820/801): Typically 12-24 months for temporary visa, then additional time for permanent visa assessment
  • Offshore Partner Visas (309/100): Typically 12-24 months for temporary visa, then additional time for permanent visa assessment
  • Factors affecting processing: Completeness of application, complexity of case, Department workload, and any requests for further information

We work to ensure your application is complete and well-prepared to minimize processing delays.

Ready to Reunite with Your Partner?

Speak with an experienced partner visa lawyer today.

Talk to a Partner Visa Lawyer