If you are in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and are currently living outside Australia, partner Visa 309 may be your way to join your partner and start a new chapter of life in Australia. This visa is the first stage of the two-step process that eventually leads to permanent residence through the Subclass 100 visa.
In this broad guide, we all need to learn about the subclass 309 visa -periphery, application process, required documents, costs and important tips for success.
What is partner visa australia 309?
The Subclass 309 Partner Visa is a temporary visa that allows a worthy Australian sponsor’s spouse or real partner to live in Australia while waiting for the decision on its permanent partner visa (Subclass 100).
The 309 visa is applied from outside Australia, and after being provided once, it allows you to temporarily stay, work and study in Australia. During this time, you can prepare for the permanent residence phase.
Benefits of the 309 Visa
Live in Australia with your partner while awaiting the permanent visa
Work and study rights
Australia’s Public Healthcare System (Medicare) access
Travel to and from Australia freely
Include dependent children in your application
Who is eligible for a Subclass 309 visa?
To be eligible, you need:
Be outside Australia when applying
Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your Australian partner
Be either married or in a de facto relationship
De facto relationships usually require 12 months of evidence unless registered
Meet health and character requirements
Be sponsored by your partner (who must also meet sponsorship criteria)
Equal-sex couples are equally eligible under this visa.
What is the difference between the subclass 309 and 100?
Subclass 309 is a temporary partner visa, which is given earlier
The subclass is a 100 permanent partner visa, which is given about two years after the initial application, if the relationship is still going on.
When you submit your application, you are technically applying for both. You do not need to apply for the 100 separately later on.
Subcise 309 visa application process
How the process works here is a simplified breakdown:
- Prepare Your Application
Collect relationship evidence
Complete visa application forms
Prepare documents for yourself and your sponsor
- Submit the Online Application
You apply online via the ImmiAccount portal
Both the applicant and sponsor must submit forms
- Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary but often range between 12 to 24 months
During this period, you may be contacted for additional documents
- Visa Grant
If successful, you’ll be granted the 309 visa, allowing you to enter and live in Australia
After about two years, your eligibility for the subclass 100 visa will be assessed
Key Relationship Evidence
You’ll need to demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship through the following types of evidence:
- Financial Aspects
Joint bank accounts
Shared bills and financial responsibilities
Evidence of shared assets or purchases
- Social Aspects
Photos together
Joint social activities
Declarations from friends and family (Form 888)
- Household Arrangements
Shared address documentation
Utility bills
Lease or mortgage agreements
- Commitment to Each Other
Joint future plans (emails, messages, long-term goals)
Travel history
Wills or superannuation naming each other
Required Documents
For the Applicant:
Passport
Birth certificate
Police checks
Health examinations
Identity documents
Relationship evidence
For the Sponsor:
Proof of citizenship or permanent residency
Police checks (including from Australia)
Completed sponsorship form
Visa Cost
As of 2025, the government application charge is:
AUD 8,850 for the main applicant
Additional fees apply for any dependent children
This fee covers both the subclass 309 and subclass 100 visa application.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Inconsistent Evidence: Make sure all dates and facts match across your documents.
Too Little Information: Don’t just submit photos—include detailed supporting documentation.
Missing Translations: All documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator.
Ignoring Updates: Respond promptly to requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
Not Keeping Records: Continue collecting evidence even after submission; you’ll need it for the subclass 100 stage.
Processing Times
Processing times can vary significantly depending on the complexity of your case, the completeness of your application, and demand.
75% of applications processed in 12–18 months
90% of applications processed in 24+ months
Submitting a well-prepared application helps speed things up.
After Receiving the 309 Visa
Once granted:
You can move to Australia and begin living with your partner
You’ll have full work and study rights
You can access Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
You’ll be contacted after about two years to submit further evidence for the permanent 100 visa
final thoughts
Partner Visa (Subclass 309) is an important first step in re -adding couples in Australia and eventually achieving permanent residence. While the application can be complex and time -consuming, a complete preparation and a real relationship is the key to success.
Also read :- parent visa subclass 870