Partner Visa (Subclass 309 & 100)

Offshore Visa for Partners of Australians

If you're planning to join your partner and build a life together in Australia, the 309 and 100 Partner Visas may be the right path for you. Here's what you need to know about this two-stage offshore visa process.

Who Is the 309/100 Visa For?

This visa is for spouses and de facto partners of:

  • Australian citizens

  • Australian permanent residents

  • Eligible New Zealand citizens

You must apply while outside Australia. However, you can be onshore or offshore when the visa is granted.

How the Process Works

Stage 1: Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309)

You apply for this first. Once granted, it allows you to live in Australia while you wait for permanent residency.

Stage 2: Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100)

You become eligible for this two years after lodging the 309 application. At this stage, you must provide updated evidence of your ongoing relationship.

Can You Skip the Two-Stage Process?

Yes—long-term couples may be able to apply directly for the permanent 100 visa if:

  • You’ve lived together for at least three years, or

  • You’ve lived together for two years and share a child

We'll help determine if you qualify for this streamlined route.

What Evidence Do You Need?

These visas are carefully reviewed by the Department of Home Affairs. To succeed, you’ll need to prove your relationship is genuine by submitting:

  • Joint financial records

  • Communication history

  • Photos and travel records

  • Statutory declarations from friends and family

Our migration agents will guide you every step of the way, ensuring nothing is missed.

Including Children and Dependents

You can include:

  • Children and stepchildren

  • Dependents aged 22 or over (must prove full financial dependence)

Even children not migrating with you must meet health checks.

Health & Character Requirements

You—and all dependents—must meet:

  • Health requirements (even for non-migrating children)

  • Character checks (for applicants aged 16 or over)

How Long Are These Visas Valid?

  • The 309 visa is valid until your 100 visa is granted

  • The 100 visa grants permanent residency, letting you stay in Australia indefinitely

Sponsor Obligations

Your sponsor (partner in Australia) must:

  • Provide suitable accommodation

  • Offer financial support
    These obligations last two years from your arrival on the 309 visa.

Why Choose Us?

We’ve helped thousands of couples navigate this process. With ThinkOz Migration Centre, you’ll get:

  • Expert advice from MARA-registered agents

  • Step-by-step help preparing your application

  • Ongoing support from your first visa to permanent residency

  • A no visa, no fee guarantee on this visa type

Ready to Get Started?

Take our free visa assessment and find out how we can help you begin your life in Australia—together.

FAQs

Who Can Apply for a 309 Partner Visa?

You may be eligible for a Subclass 309 Partner Visa if:

  • You are married or in a de facto relationship (living together for at least 12 months before applying)

  • You can show:

    • Shared financial responsibilities

    • Living arrangements (if de facto)

    • Social recognition of your relationship

  • Both you and your partner are over 18 years old

  • You meet the health and character requirements

  • You have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government

Moving to Stage 2: The 100 Visa (Permanent Residency)

To progress to the Subclass 100 Permanent Partner Visa, you must:

  • Hold a valid Subclass 309 Partner Visa

  • Still be in a genuine, ongoing relationship with your sponsor (unless special circumstances apply)

  • Have followed all visa conditions and Australian laws during your time on the 309 visa