Partner Visa Subclass 309/100 Explained: Requirements, Processing Time & Benefits (2026 Guide)

For couples separated by international borders, the Subclass 309/100 visa is the primary pathway to a shared life in Australia. In 2026, the Australian government has prioritised family reunification, making this a stable and reliable route for spouses and de facto partners.

This guide breaks down the requirements, current 2026 processing times, and the benefits of this two-stage visa.

What is the Subclass 309/100 Visa?

The Subclass 309 (Provisional) and Subclass 100 (Migrant) are processed as a combined application.

• Subclass 309 (Stage 1): A temporary visa that allows you to move to Australia, work, and study while the permanent stage is assessed.

• Subclass 100 (Stage 2): The permanent residency (PR) stage, usually granted two years after your initial application date.

Eligibility and Requirements for 2026 Partner Visa

To be eligible, you must be in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

1. Relationship Status

• Married Couples: Your marriage must be legally valid under Australian law.

• De Facto Partners: You must generally prove you have lived together for at least 12 months prior to applying.

• 2026 Strategy: Registering your relationship in an Australian state can often waive the 12-month requirement.

2. The "Four Pillars" of Evidence

The Department of Home Affairs assesses your relationship based on:

• Financial: Joint bank accounts, shared assets, or shared household expenses.

• Household: Living arrangements, shared chores, and mail addressed to both partners.

• Social: Statements from family/friends (Form 888) and photos of social outings.

• Commitment: Knowledge of each other's backgrounds and plans for a long-term future.

3. Location Requirement

You must be outside Australia at the time of application. However, a significant rule update allows the Subclass 309 to be granted while you are either inside or outside Australia (allowing you to visit your partner on a tourist visa while waiting).

Processing Times & Costs in 2026

How much does it cost?

As of the 2025–26 financial year, the base application fee starts from $9,365 AUD. This fee covers both the temporary (309) and permanent (100) stages.

How long does it take?

Processing times vary based on the completeness of your application. In 2026, the Department is prioritising "Decision-Ready" files.

• Subclass 309: 50% of applications are processed within 14 months; 90% within 26 months.

• Subclass 100: Once eligible (2 years after lodgement), 50% are finalised within 9 months.

• Pro Tip: High-quality, front-loaded applications (including medicals and police checks) are seeing grants in as little as 6–10 months for the 309 stage.

Benefits of the 309/100 Pathway

Benefit	Subclass 309 (Temporary)	Subclass 100 (Permanent)
Right to Work	Full, unrestricted work rights	Full, unrestricted work rights
Study Rights	Yes (International rates)	Yes (Domestic rates)
Medicare	Immediate access upon grant	Continued access
Travel	Unlimited travel to/from Australia	Unlimited (5-year facility)
Citizenship	No	Pathway to Citizenship

FAQ: Subclass 309/100 Visa

1. Can I skip the 2-year waiting period for PR?

Yes, if you are in a long-term relationship. If you have been together for 3+ years (or 2+ years with a dependent child), the Department may grant the Subclass 100 permanent visa immediately after the 309.

2. Do I need to provide an English test?

While "Functional English" is encouraged to help with settlement, there is currently no mandatory English test pass mark required to grant the 309/100 visa in 2026.

3. Can I work in Australia while waiting for the 309 grant?

You cannot work in Australia until your 309 visa is granted. If you visit your partner on a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) while the 309 is processing, you must strictly adhere to "no work" conditions.

4. What if my relationship ends before the PR stage?

You may still be eligible for the Subclass 100 visa if the relationship ended due to family violence, the death of your partner, or if there are shared children involved.

5. Is a migration agent necessary?

With fees over $9,000, a refusal is a costly mistake. A Registered Migration Agent ensures your evidence is "Decision-Ready," significantly reducing the risk of delays or rejection.

Ready to reunite with your partner in Australia?

Don't navigate the complex 2026 requirements alone. Contact Leading Edge Migration today for a comprehensive assessment of your Subclass 309/100 application.

Don’t risk a refusal on a $9,000+ application fee. The 2026 migration environment is strict, and minor errors can lead to major delays. Book a Strategy Session with Leading Edge Migration today to ensure your application is bulletproof.

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