Difference Between an Onshore and Offshore Partner Visa
- Leading Edge
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
Building a life together in Australia is a dream for many couples, but the first hurdle is often the most confusing: Should you apply for your Partner Visa from inside Australia or from overseas?
In 2026, the choice between an onshore and offshore application isn't just about where you’re standing when you click "submit." It impacts your right to work, your access to healthcare, and your ability to stay together during the processing period.
Here is everything you need to know about the differences between the Onshore (Subclass 820/801) and Offshore (Subclass 309/100) partner visas.
Onshore vs. Offshore Partner Visa : At a Glance
Feature | Onshore (Subclass 820/801) | Offshore (Subclass 309/100) |
Location at Lodgement | Must be inside Australia | Must be outside Australia |
Bridging Visa | Granted automatically (allows you to stay) | Not granted |
Work Rights | Full rights (via Bridging Visa) | Only after visa grant |
Medicare | Access upon lodgement | Access only after visa grant |
Travel Rights | Restricted (requires BVB to leave) | Unlimited (once granted) |
The Onshore Pathway: Subclass 820/801
The Onshore Partner Visa is designed for couples who are already together in Australia—perhaps on a Student, Working Holiday, or Visitor visa.
The Major Benefit: The Bridging Visa
When you apply onshore, you are typically granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA). This allows you to remain in Australia legally while the Department of Home Affairs processes your application. In 2026, this is a massive advantage as it prevents long-distance separation.
Important Note for 2026: If you need to travel overseas while on a BVA, you must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) before you leave, or you may not be allowed back into the country.
The Offshore Pathway: Subclass 309/100
The Offshore Partner Visa is the standard route for applicants currently living outside of Australia.
Flexibility in 2026
A significant update in recent years allows Offshore 309 applicants to be either inside or outside Australia when the visa is granted. This means you can apply from your home country, travel to Australia on a Visitor Visa to be with your partner, and potentially receive your grant without having to fly back out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which visa is processed faster in 2026?
Currently, processing times for both are relatively similar, though offshore applications (309) occasionally move faster. As of early 2026, you can expect:
Onshore (820): 12–24 months
Offshore (309): 10–20 months
Note: "Decision-ready" applications with front-loaded police checks and medicals are being prioritised.
2. Can I apply onshore if my current visa has a "No Further Stay" condition?
Usually, no. If your current visa has Condition 8503, you are blocked from making an onshore application. You would either need to apply for a waiver (which is difficult) or apply via the offshore 309 route.
3. When can I access Medicare?
Onshore: You can usually enroll in Medicare as soon as you have lodged your 820 application.
Offshore: You only gain Medicare access once your 309 visa has been granted and you have entered Australia.
4. Do we need to be married to apply?
No. Both visas are available to married couples and de facto partners. For de facto relationships, you generally need to prove you have lived together for at least 12 months, unless you have registered your relationship with an Australian state government.
5. What if our relationship is "long-term"?
If you have been in a relationship for more than 3 years (or 2 years if you have a child together), the Department may skip the temporary stage and grant your Permanent Residency (801 or 100) immediately.
Unsure which path is right for your relationship?
The "best" visa depends entirely on your current visa status and travel plans. Book a strategy session with Leading Edge Migration to ensure you choose the pathway that keeps you and your partner together.
📍Visit us at Unit 3, 239 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000.
📞 Call us: 08 9221 8472
📩 Email: info@leadingedgemigration.com.au
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances.
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