PARTNER VISA
Reunite with Your Loved One and Build a Life Together
ABOUT THE VISA
Reuniting with your partner in Australia is an exciting journey — but choosing the right visa and preparing strong documentation is crucial. The Australian Partner visa program allows spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live together in Australia on a temporary and permanent basis.At Qbase, we understand that every love story is unique. That’s why we provide personalised, step-by-step guidance to ensure your Partner visa application is accurate, complete, and decision-ready.Let's explore both the types of relationships included and the different visa options available.
TYPES OF RELATIONSHIPS INCLUDED IN A PARTNER VISA
Australian immigration law recognises the following relationship categories
MARRIED COUPLES
You are legally married under Australian law.
You must not be separated.
The marriage must be valid and genuine.
Genuine, ongoing relationship — not for visa purposes.
Even with a marriage certificate, strong supporting evidence is required
DE FACTO PARTNERS (INCLUDING SAME-SEX COUPLES)
Genuine, committed relationship (not married).
Usually lived together 12+ months (unless exempt or registered).
Registered relationships can waive the 12-month rule.
Same-sex and opposite-sex couples are treated equally.
SAME-SEX RELATIONSHIPS
Australia fully recognises same-sex marriages and de facto relationships. Applications are assessed under the same criteria as opposite-sex couples, with a focus on genuineness and continuity.
TYPES OF PARTNER VISAS IN AUSTRALIA
Your visa pathway depends on whether you apply inside or outside Australia.
IF YOU ARE IN AUSTRALIA (ONSHORE APPLICATION)
PARTNER (TEMPORARY) VISA (SUBCLASS 820)
This is the first stage of the onshore Partner visa process. It allows you to
Stay in Australia with your partner
Work and study
Access Medicare (if eligible)
You apply for both the temporary and permanent visas at the same time. This visa lets you remain in Australia while your permanent stage is being assessed.
PARTNER (PERMANENT) VISA (SUBCLASS 801)
This is the second stage of the onshore pathway. Generally assessed about two years after the initial application, it grants:
Permanent residency
Full work and study rights
Medicare access
Pathway to Australian citizenship
IF YOU ARE OUTSIDE AUSTRALIA (OFFSHORE APPLICATION)
PARTNER (TEMPORARY) VISA (SUBCLASS 820)
This is the first stage of the onshore Partner visa process. It allows you to
Enter Australia
Live with your partner
Work and study while awaiting the permanent decision
You must be outside Australia at the time of application (and usually at grant of this stage).
PARTNER (PERMANENT) VISA (SUBCLASS 801)
This is the second stage of the onshore pathway. Generally assessed about two years after the initial application, it grants:
Permanent residency
Indefinite stay in Australia
Access to Medicare
Citizenship eligibility
HOW IMMIGRATION ASSESSES YOUR RELATIONSHIP
The Department examines your relationship under four main pillars
Financial aspects (joint accounts, shared expenses)
Nature of the household (living arrangements, shared responsibilities)
Social aspects (recognition by friends and family)
Commitment to each other (future plans, long-term intentions)
The key is not one document — it is a consistent and convincing story supported by evidence.
GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS
Your sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Both partners must generally be 18 years or older.
The relationship must be genuine, continuing, and exclusive.
Health and character requirements apply.
Sponsorship limitations may apply if your partner has previously sponsored someone.
The visa is generally a two-stage process (temporary to permanent).
Providing false or misleading information can result in refusal and future bans.
WHY CHOOSE QBASE FOR YOUR PARTNER VISA?
Partner visas can be complex and document-heavy. Many refusals occur due to insufficient evidence or poorly prepared applications.
Conduct detailed relationship assessments
Guide you on strong and relevant documentation
Prepare clear and structured applications
Assist with sponsor obligations
Provide ongoing support until visa outcome
We don't just lodge applications — we build well-prepared cases that reflect the genuine nature of your relationship.
Your future together in Australia deserves careful planning and professional support. With Qbase, you receive trusted guidance, transparency, and personalised attention at every stage of your Partner visa journey.
