HOW LONG DOES THE PARTNER VISA APPLICATION PROCESS TAKE?

One of the most common questions asked by couples seeking to live together in Australia is: “How long does the Partner Visa Application process take?” The answer depends on several factors, including the type of partner visa, the applicant’s country of origin, and the completeness of the application. On average, however, the process can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, sometimes longer.

Navigating this lengthy process can be emotionally and mentally taxing, especially when you’re eager to begin your life with your partner. That’s why it’s essential to be informed, well-prepared, and ideally guided by professionals like Australia Bound Migration, who specialise in immigration and Visa Advice tailored to individual circumstances.

What Is a Partner Visa?

A Partner Visa Application allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. There are two main types of partner visas:

• Subclass 820/801: Onshore Partner Visa
• Subclass 309/100: Offshore Partner Visa

Both of these are two-stage visas. The applicant first receives a temporary visa, and after a qualifying period (usually two years), a permanent visa can be granted if the relationship is ongoing and genuine.

Stage-by-Stage Breakdown of the Process Timeline

Understanding each stage of the Partner Visa Application process helps you anticipate what’s ahead.

1. Preparing Your Application (1–3 months)

Before you even lodge your application, there’s a preparation phase. You’ll need to gather a large number of documents to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. These documents can include:

• Joint bank account statements
• Shared lease or mortgage agreements
• Photographs as a couple
• Statements from friends and family
• Travel records

This preparation stage can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on how much evidence you already have on hand.

If you seek Visa Advice from professionals like Australia Bound Migration, this stage can be streamlined with clear checklists and guidance on what types of documents are most effective.

2. Lodging the Application (Instant to 1 day)

Once your application is prepared, you can lodge it online via the Department of Home Affairs portal. This step is typically fast and can be completed within a day. However, it’s important that everything is included and correct—any missing information may result in delays or even refusals.

3. Temporary Partner Visa Processing Time (12–18 months)

Once the application is submitted, the waiting begins. The Department of Home Affairs will assign a case officer who will evaluate the evidence provided and may request additional documents.

• Subclass 820 (Onshore Temporary Visa): Processing time is typically between 12 to 20 months.
• Subclass 309 (Offshore Temporary Visa): Processing time ranges from 12 to 18 months.

The actual time may vary based on:

• Application completeness
• Country of origin
• Verification of documentation
• Caseload of the Department of Home Affairs

Applicants with more straightforward cases and well-organised documentation may experience quicker processing.

4. Permanent Partner Visa (801/100) Processing Time (12–24 months after temporary visa)

Two years after you apply for the temporary partner visa, you may become eligible for the permanent visa. At this stage, you’ll need to provide updated evidence that the relationship is continuing.

• Subclass 801 (Onshore Permanent Partner Visa): Usually granted within 12 to 18 months after eligibility.
• Subclass 100 (Offshore Permanent Partner Visa): Typically takes 16 to 24 months after the initial grant.

The wait times are designed to verify the stability and legitimacy of the relationship over time. The goal is to ensure that people aren’t entering into partnerships solely for immigration benefits.

Factors That Can Delay the Process

While the Department of Home Affairs provides estimated timelines, several issues can delay your Partner Visa Application:

• Incomplete applications: Missing documents or incorrect forms can add months to your wait time.
• High-risk countries: Applications from certain countries undergo extra security screening.
• Insufficient relationship evidence: If your evidence doesn’t adequately prove a genuine relationship, the Department may request additional information.
• Health and character checks: Delays in medical examinations or police clearances can impact processing times.
• Change in relationship status: A breakup or significant change can halt the process altogether.

Tips to Speed Up the Partner Visa Application Process

Although you can’t control every aspect of the process, there are strategies to minimise delays:

• Start gathering documents early: The more comprehensive your evidence, the better.
• Use a migration agent: Registered professionals like Australia Bound Migration can ensure your application is correct, complete, and compelling from the outset.
• Respond quickly to requests: If the Department asks for more information, don’t delay.
• Double-check everything: Mistakes in names, dates, or document uploads can create unnecessary setbacks.

Why Seek Professional Visa Advice?

Applying for a partner visa isn’t just about submitting a few forms. It’s about telling a convincing and truthful story about your relationship using both documents and declarations. This can be challenging for many couples, especially when English isn’t their first language or if they’re unsure about how to interpret immigration requirements.

Here’s where professional Visa Advice plays a critical role. By engaging experts like Australia Bound Migration, you receive:

• A personalised checklist of required documents
• Assistance with writing relationship statements
• Strategic advice on how to present your case
• Regular updates on changes in immigration law

They ensure that your case is as strong as possible from day one, giving you peace of mind during what can otherwise be a long and stressful wait.

Conclusion: Patience and Preparation Are Key

So, how long does the Partner Visa Application process take? Realistically, expect anywhere from 12 to 30 months for the full journey from temporary to permanent visa. The better prepared your application, the fewer hurdles you’ll face.

This is not a process to be rushed or taken lightly. The stakes are high—your ability to live with your loved one in Australia depends on the success of this application.

That’s why turning to an experienced and trustworthy team like Australia Bound Migration can make all the difference. Their in-depth knowledge and tailored Visa Advice not only help you avoid common mistakes but also put you in the strongest position to secure a favourable outcome.

By being proactive, organised, and supported by the right professionals, you can significantly reduce the stress and uncertainty that often accompanies this complex immigration journey.