How Do I Apply for a Partner Visa in Australia? Your 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

The journey to an Australian Partner Visa is one of the most rewarding yet complex paths to permanent residency. Whether you are applying as a spouse or a de facto partner, the process is a two-stage commitment that requires meticulous planning and a deep understanding of the "Four Pillars" of evidence.

As of 2026, the Department of Home Affairs has increased scrutiny on digital evidence and relationship consistency. At Leading Edge Migration, our Perth-based experts have simplified the application process into this comprehensive, six-step roadmap.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility and Visa Subclass

The first step is determining whether you should apply from inside Australia (Onshore) or outside Australia (Offshore).

• Onshore (Subclass 820/801): You must be in Australia at the time of application. This visa typically comes with a Bridging Visa, allowing you to stay, work, and access Medicare while you wait for a decision.

• Offshore (Subclass 309/100): You must be outside Australia when you apply. This is the ideal path for partners currently living abroad.

• Prospective Marriage (Subclass 300): For those engaged to be married to an Australian within 9–15 months.

Core Requirements: You must be sponsored by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. De facto couples generally must prove at least 12 months of cohabitation unless they have registered their relationship or have children.

Step 2: The "Decision-Ready" Evidence Audit

In 2026, "decision-ready" applications—those submitted with all evidence on day one—are processed significantly faster. You must gather proof for the Four Pillars:

1. Financial: Joint bank accounts, shared household bills, and joint major assets.

2. Household: Joint leases or mortgages, and a shared domestic responsibility statement.

3. Social: Photos of your lives together, joint travel, and Form 888 statements from Australian witnesses.

4. Commitment: Individual relationship statements detailing your history and future goals.

Step 3: Lodge the Visa Application (Applicant)

Using your ImmiAccount, the applicant completes the main form and pays the mandatory visa application charge (VAC).

2026 Cost Note: The current government fee for a Partner Visa is $9,365. This covers both the temporary and permanent stages.

Step 4: Lodge the Sponsorship Form (Sponsor)

Once the applicant lodges their form, they will receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN). The Australian sponsor must then use this TRN to lodge their separate Sponsorship Form (Form 40SP). Your application is not legally complete until these two forms are linked.

Step 5: "Front-Load" Character and Health Checks

To bypass the "Request for Information" (RFI) queue—which can add 6+ months to your wait—get your police clearances and HAP ID medical exams done immediately after lodgement. In 2026, the Department prioritises files that are ready for a final decision the moment a Case Officer opens them.

Step 6: Maintain Evidence for the Permanent Stage (Subclass 801/100)

For most couples, eligibility for the permanent visa occurs two years after the initial lodgement date. During this waiting period, you must continue to upload "proof of life"—new travel tickets, updated bank statements, and social photos—to show the relationship is ongoing.

2026 Partner Visa Processing Times

Visa Stage	Average Waiting Time
Stage 1: Temporary (820/309)	12 – 20 Months
Stage 2: Permanent (801/100)	6 – 15 Months

Why Choose Leading Edge Migration?

A DIY mistake can lead to a refusal and the total loss of your nearly $10,000 fee. Our Registered Migration Agents in Perth provide a forensic review of your case to ensure your "Four Pillars" are bulletproof.

Don't risk your future on a cut-price agent with no track record. Join the hundreds of couples who have successfully started their lives together in Australia with our help.

Ready to bring your partner home?

Book a Partner Visa Strategy Session with Leading Edge Migration today or visit us at Unit 3, 239 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000.

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