Australia Partner Visa Application Guide 2026

Are you planning to live with your partner in Australia? The Australia Spousal Visa, also called the Partner Visa, helps you join your husband, wife, or de facto partner in Australia. In 2026, the process is mostly online and easier with the ImmiAccount system. You can apply if you are married or in a long-term de facto relationship.

This simple guide explains the Australia Partner Visa requirements 2026. It covers both onshore (Subclass 820) and offshore (Subclass 309) options. We use easy words and clear steps to help you understand.

How to Apply for an Australia Spousal Visa in 2026

The application is a two-step process. You apply for a temporary visa first and a permanent visa later. You submit both at the same time in one application. You use the online ImmiAccount to upload documents and pay fees. This makes things faster and simpler in 2026.

Choosing the Right Subclass

There are two main paths. Choose based on where you are when you apply.

• Subclass 820/801: This is for people already in Australia. Many people apply for the Australian partner visa while on a tourist visa in 2026 using this path. You stay in Australia during processing.
• Subclass 309/100: This is for people applying from outside Australia. You must be outside the country when the temporary visa (Subclass 309) is granted. The process is similar to the onshore one but you wait outside until approved.

Essential Australian Partner Visa Requirements 2026

The most important rule is to show your relationship is “genuine and continuing.” This means it is real, honest, and will last. The Department of Home Affairs looks at four main areas of evidence. These are called the “Four Pillars.” In 2026, it is easier to organize your proof in ImmiAccount.

The Four Pillars of Evidence

1. Financial Aspects Show you share money and responsibilities. Examples include joint bank accounts, shared bills, joint ownership of property, or a joint lease for a house or apartment.
2. Nature of Household Prove you live together or share home life. Give evidence like shared address on documents, photos of your home, or proof of who does household tasks like cooking or cleaning.
3. Social Context Show friends and family know about your relationship. Use Statutory Declarations (Form 888) from friends or family. Also include photos from social events, joint travel tickets, or memberships in clubs together.
4. Nature of Commitment Prove your long-term plans. Include messages or letters about your future, wedding photos if married, or documents showing the length of your relationship.

You need to provide strong proof in all these areas. More evidence makes your application stronger.

Financial Costs and Australia De Facto Visa Application Steps

The cost for the Australian Partner Visa in 2026 is about AUD 9,365 for the main applicant. This fee covers both the temporary and permanent stages. You pay it once when you apply. Extra fees may apply for additional family members.

Australia De Facto Visa Application Steps

If you are not married, you are in a de facto relationship. To apply, you usually need to prove you lived together for at least 12 months before applying.

But there is good news. If you register your relationship in your Australian state or territory, you can often skip the 12-month rule. Some states allow registration, which helps a lot. Check your local rules.

The steps are the same as for married couples: gather evidence, get a sponsor, do health and character checks, and apply online.

Bridging Visas and Working Rights

If you apply onshore (Subclass 820), you get a Bridging Visa A (BVA) after your current visa ends. This lets you stay in Australia legally while waiting.

• Can I work in Australia while waiting for my 820 visa? Yes, the Bridging Visa usually gives full work rights. You can work any job.
• Travel Rights: If you want to leave Australia during processing, apply for Bridging Visa B. This allows travel and return without problems.

Offshore applicants do not get bridging visas because they are outside Australia.

Sponsor Obligations and Health Checks

The visa is not only about you. Your partner (the sponsor) must also qualify.

Sponsor Requirements

Under the Australian partner visa sponsor requirements 2026, the sponsor must:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Pass character checks (police certificates).
• Agree to support you.

The sponsor promises to help you with housing and money if needed.

Health Checks

You must meet health standards (PIC 4005 or 4007). Go to a doctor at Bupa Medical Visa Services in Australia or approved clinics outside. They check for health issues.

Long-Term Relationships

If your relationship is long, you may get faster permanent residency. For example, if you have been together more than 3 years, or 2 years with a child, you can get a Long-term relationship waiver. This may let you skip the normal 2-year wait for the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Would you like me to help you draft your “Relationship Statement” or provide a specific checklist for the Form 888 Statutory Declarations?

Disclaimer: This guide gives basic information to help you start. Always check the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the latest rules. Things can change, so use trusted sources before you apply.