Partner Visa Australia: Requirements, Processing Time, and Cost in 2025
5/5/20253 min read
If you're in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, a partner visa Australia allows you to live, work, and eventually stay permanently in the country. Whether you're in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria or Western Australia, understanding the partner visa requirements, processing time, and cost in 2025 is essential.
At IR Legal, we’ve helped countless couples across Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and across Australia navigate the partner visa process with confidence.
What Is a Partner Visa in Australia?
A partner visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an eligible Australian to live in Australia. This visa is typically applied for in two stages:
Temporary visa (Subclass 820) - lets you stay in Australia while your permanent visa is being processed.
Permanent visa (Subclass 801) - granted after 2 years if the relationship continues and all requirements are met.
Types of Partner Visas: Subclass 820 and 801
Subclass 820 (Temporary Partner Visa): This allows you to stay in Australia while your permanent visa is being considered.
Subclass 801 (Permanent Partner Visa): This is granted about two years after the 820 visa, provided the relationship is ongoing and meets all legal requirements.
Both visas require strong documentation and can be complex to navigate.
Partner Visa Requirements in 2025
To be eligible for a partner visa in Australia in 2025, you must meet several criteria:
• Relationship Requirements
You must be:
Married or in a de facto relationship with an eligible sponsor.
In a genuine and continuing relationship.
Living together or not apart permanently.
De facto couples must generally show 12 months of cohabitation unless registered in states like New South Wales, Queensland, or Victoria, where de facto registration can waive the 12-month requirement.
• Health and Character Requirements
You and any dependent applicants must:
Undergo a health examination by an approved panel doctor.
Provide police checks from every country lived in for 12+ months in the last 10 years.
• Financial and Supporting Documents
You’ll need to submit:
Joint financial records, leases, or utility bills.
Photos, messages, and statutory declarations supporting the relationship.
Sponsor's proof of income and immigration history.
Partner Visa Processing Time in Australia
Partner visa processing time Australia varies depending on the workload of Department of Home Affairs, case complexity and documentation quality.
As of 2025:
For Visa Subclass 820 , 50% of applications were processed in 12- 14 months and 90% were processed in 18- 24 months.
For Visa Subclass 801 , 50% of applications were processed in 8-12 months (after 820) and 90% were processed in 16 months.
Processing can be faster if you provide complete documents, particularly if you're applying from major hubs like Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne.
How Much Does a Partner Visa Cost?
The partner visa cost Australia in 2025 is a significant investment:
Main application fee: AUD 9,365
Additional applicants (under 18): AUD 2,345
Additional applicants (over 18): AUD 4,685
Additional costs may include:
Health checks
Police certificates
Translation and document certification
Legal or migration agent fees
How a Partner Visa Lawyer Can Assist You
The partner visa process is highly detailed and personal. A partner visa lawyer can help by:
Ensuring all documentation meets legal standards
Providing tailored legal advice for your situation (including complex or long-distance cases)
Preparing a strong relationship statement
Representing you in case of requests for further information or appeal
Whether you’re based in Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, or Western Australia, IR Legal provides expert guidance through each stage of your visa journey.
FAQs About Partner Visas
Q: Can I apply for a partner visa while in Australia on a tourist visa?
A: Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria and your tourist visa doesn't have a "No Further Stay" condition.
Q: Do I need to wait 2 years to get the 801 visa?
A: Typically yes, unless you’ve been in a long-term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with a child).
Q: Can I work on a Subclass 820 visa?
A: Yes, you can live and work in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
Need Help with Your Partner Visa?
At IR Legal, we’re proud to support couples across Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and regional areas in navigating the Australian immigration system.
Contact us today to book a confidential consultation with an experienced partner visa lawyer and take the next step toward securing your future together.
👉 Visit www.irlegal.lawyer or call us to get started.
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