The 309/100 Partner visa allows you to apply from outside Australia to join your partner and build your life together here. While the application process can be complex, Professional Visa and Education Services supports you at each step, making your application as clear and stress-free as possible.

If you are in a long-term relationship with an Australian citizen or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may transition from a prospective marriage visa to a permanent partner visa, giving you the right to live permanently in Australia. The permanent partner visa also grants you access to healthcare, the ability to work, and the peace of mind of indefinite residency. If you hold a prospective marriage visa, we will help you show evidence of a genuine relationship to ensure a smooth transition to your permanent partner visa.

With this visa, you can

• live, work and study in Australia while your Partner visa is under process
• enrol in Australia's public health care scheme, Medicare
• travel to and from Australia as many times as you want

You must

• Be in a genuine relationship with your spouse or de facto partner, who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
• Have your spouse or de facto partner sponsor your application
• be outside Australia when you apply for this visa. Family members who apply with you must also be outside Australia
• Be either in Australia or outside Australia when your temporary visa application is decided

What is the Partner visa (subclass 309/100)?

The Partner visa subclass 309/100 is designed for individuals who are married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, allowing them to live together in Australia. The process involves two stages: the temporary Partner visa (subclass 309) and the permanent Partner visa (subclass 100).

Temporary Visa (Subclass 309)

The first step is the temporary subclass 309 visa. Applicants must provide strong evidence of their genuine relationship or marriage, such as joint financial records, proof of shared responsibilities, and details of living arrangements. Meeting character requirements—such as obtaining police checks—is also essential.

Permanent Visa (Subclass 100)

After holding the subclass 309 visa for two years, applicants can then apply for the permanent subclass 100 visa. Once granted, this visa provides permanent residency in Australia, with full access to healthcare, social services, and other permanent resident benefits. After fulfilling residency requirements, holders may also be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.

The subclass 309/100 Partner visa provides a clear pathway for couples to build their lives together in Australia as permanent residents.

Eligibility of the Partner visa (subclass 309/100)

To apply for a subclass 309/100 Partner visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be outside Australia when you apply.
• You must be in a genuine relationship with your sponsoring partner, who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Your sponsoring partner must be your spouse (married) or de facto partner (typically living together for at least 12 months, or not living apart on a permanent basis; some exceptions apply).
• You must be at least 18 years old (with limited exemptions).
• You must meet health and character requirements.
• Same-sex partners are eligible to apply for this visa.

How the Partner visa (subclass 309/100) works

The offshore Partner visa process consists of two stages: the provisional stage (subclass 309) and the permanent stage (subclass 100).

Stage 1: Provisional Partner Visa (Subclass 309)

You must provide strong evidence showing your relationship is genuine and ongoing, along with identity and character documents. If granted, the temporary subclass 309 visa allows you to enter and stay in Australia for two years without restrictions, after which you can apply for the permanent partner visa (subclass 100).

Stage 2: Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100)

After holding the subclass 309 visa for two years, you become eligible to apply for the permanent subclass 100 visa. You’ll need to demonstrate that your relationship is still genuine and ongoing.

Double Grant of Subclass 309 and 100 Visas

If you and your partner are in a longstanding relationship, you may qualify for a double grant of the 309/100 visas. We can assist in preparing your application if you meet these criteria.

Professional Visa and Education Services will guide you through every step, ensuring your application is thorough and giving you the best chance of success—whether you are in a de facto relationship or partnered with an Australian or eligible New Zealand citizen. We are here to help you achieve permanent residency in Australia.