Partner Visa Timeline: What to Expect at Each Stage

Australia's partner visa program is designed to reunite couples, but the process is lengthy and requires extensive documentation. Here's what to expect.

Stage 1 — Temporary Partner Visa (820/309)

Once you lodge your application (820 if onshore, 309 if offshore), you'll receive a bridging visa allowing you to remain in Australia (or enter on the 309). Processing currently takes 12–24 months.

What You Need at This Stage

The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application based on four categories of evidence:

1. **Financial aspects**: Joint bank accounts, shared bills, property ownership
2. **Nature of household**: Shared living arrangements, domestic responsibilities
3. **Social aspects**: Joint social activities, recognition by family and friends
4. **Commitment**: Future plans, communication records, history of relationship

Stage 2 — Permanent Partner Visa (801/100)

After holding the temporary visa for approximately two years (or in some cases immediately if the relationship has existed for 3+ years), you'll be assessed for the permanent stage.

The permanent visa confirms you remain in a genuine, ongoing relationship.

Common Pitfalls

Many applications are delayed or refused due to insufficient evidence. The single biggest mistake applicants make is underestimating how much documentation the Department expects.

CMG prepares comprehensive partner visa applications, including a relationship statement strategy and a full evidence index.