Immigration Law
Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100)
Reuniting couples and families in Australia — compassionate, expert legal support at every stage of the partner visa process.
The Australian partner visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. The process is a two-stage pathway: a temporary visa is granted first, followed by a permanent visa after a period of assessment. Partner visa applications are among the most document-intensive in the Australian migration system, and the quality of evidence you provide is critical to a successful outcome. At Legal Wave, we guide you through every step — from assessing your eligibility to preparing a compelling application and supporting you through to permanent residency.
Partner Visa Pathways
Subclass 820/801 — Onshore Partner Visa
For applicants who are already in Australia at the time of lodgement. The 820 is the temporary stage, granting the right to live and work in Australia while the permanent 801 is assessed. Both stages are applied for simultaneously in a single application.
Subclass 309/100 — Offshore Partner Visa
For applicants who are outside Australia at the time of lodgement. The 309 is the temporary stage, and the 100 is the permanent stage. Both are applied for at the same time. The 309 allows the applicant to travel to and live in Australia while the permanent stage is assessed.
Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
For applicants who intend to marry their Australian sponsor before applying for a partner visa. The 300 allows the applicant to travel to Australia to marry within nine months. After marriage, the applicant can apply for an onshore partner visa (820/801).
Our Partner Visa Process
Eligibility Assessment
We begin by understanding your relationship, your partner's immigration status, and your personal circumstances. We assess your eligibility for the appropriate visa subclass and identify any potential risks — such as previous visa refusals, short relationship duration, or complex personal histories — that need to be addressed in your application.
Evidence Strategy
The Department of Home Affairs assesses the genuineness of your relationship across four categories: financial aspects, nature of the household, social aspects, and commitment. We develop a tailored evidence strategy, advising on the types of documents that will most effectively demonstrate your relationship across all four categories.
Document Compilation
We guide you in compiling comprehensive evidence including joint financial documents, shared household records, personal statements, photographs, communication records, and statutory declarations from people who know you as a couple. We review every document before submission to ensure it meets Department standards.
Application Preparation and Lodgement
We prepare your application with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring all forms are completed correctly and all supporting documents are organised and clearly presented. We lodge through the appropriate channels and manage all communication with the Department on your behalf.
Temporary Visa Grant
Once the temporary stage is granted, we explain your visa conditions — including work rights, travel conditions, and any reporting obligations. We advise on maintaining your lawful status and preparing for the permanent stage assessment.
Permanent Visa Assessment
The permanent stage is typically assessed approximately two years after the initial application. We advise on updating your evidence, responding to any requests from the Department, and ensuring your application remains strong throughout the assessment period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Reunite with Your Partner?
We understand the importance of being with the person you love. Contact us today for a compassionate, expert consultation.