As of 2026, the temporary partner visa stage (Subclass 820 or 309) generally takes 17 to 32 months, while the permanent stage (801 or 100) is usually assessed around two years after you become eligible, adding another 5 to 19 months. Most couples are looking at roughly 3 to 4 years from lodgement to permanent residency, though your individual timeline depends on your application’s completeness and the Department’s current workload.
If you’ve lodged your partner visa and you’re refreshing ImmiAccount every other day, I get it. Almost every client I work with asks the same question in the first call: “So when will this actually be done?” Here’s the honest, updated answer for 2026.
Also Read: Partner Visa 309 vs 820 Australia: Differences You Must Know
Australia offers several partner visa pathways, each with different requirements and processing times. Here’s a breakdown:
This visa is for those who intend to marry their Australian partner. The Partner visa allows you to enter Australia to get married and then apply afterwards.
The subclass 309 visa in Australia allows the spouse or partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia while the Partner visa (Subclass 100) is in process.
This is a permanent visa for people who have held the Provisional Partner visa (Subclass 309) for at least 2 years.
Also Read: Offshore Partner Visa 309 & 100 – Requirements, Cost & Process 2026
Spouses of Australian citizens or permanent residents may live in Australia temporarily, awaiting a decision on the permanent partner visa (Subclass 801).
This visa allows permanent residency to people who have held the Subclass 820 visa for two years or more.
While the Department of Home Affairs gives estimates on processing times, several factors can influence how long your visa takes to be processed:
Delay can be caused by missing documents or by providing incorrect information. You must submit the complete partner visa Australia application with all the required documentation — that is, proof of ID, proof of relationship, and financial support.
The Department may sometimes ask for more information, for example, more evidence of your relationship or most up-to-date health or police checks. Processing times can be delayed if response to these requests is delayed.
Other things that can impact processing times include factors beyond your control, like how long it takes to have your health checks done or get police clearance from other countries.
For instance, health examinations carried out by panels of physicians or checks from a variety of authorities can slow down this overall process.
Depending on the situation (to prove a relationship is genuine, etc.), the Department of Home Affairs may have to verify the documents you submit with your application.
Processing times can be longer during peak times, such as before a policy change or the end of the financial year, as more applications are processed through the department.
Read more: 6 Easy Steps to Convert Your Visitor Visa to a Partner Visa in Australia
Meeting the eligibility criteria upfront makes for a much smoother application. Key requirements include:
To make a successful partner visa application, you have to have a bunch of documents to prove your relationship is legitimate. And that you are eligible for the visa. The most common documents include:
Also Read: How to Prove a Genuine De Facto Relationship for Partner Visa Australia in 2026?
While some aspects of the visa process are beyond your control, there are a few steps you can take to help expedite your application:
Processing times shift monthly, so treat any number in this article — or anywhere else — as a general guide, not a guarantee. The Department of Home Affairs updates its official processing time tool regularly, and it lets you select your exact visa subclass and application date for the most current estimate.
In 2026, if you want to apply for a partner visa in Australia, you will need to plan and pay attention to all the details. However, by learning about the different visas, processing times and the factors that can delay the application you can better prepare for the process. For expert assistance and guidance, consider consulting a Migration Agent in Adelaide to navigate the complexities and increase your chances of a successful application.
Read: 8 Reasons Why Do People Migrate to Australia?
Is the 309 visa faster than the 820 visa?
Generally, yes, though only slightly — the 309 often processes a little quicker than the 820 at the temporary stage, mainly because offshore applications are assessed differently.
Does the permanent visa take as long as the temporary one?
Not usually. Once you’re eligible (about two years after lodgement), the permanent stage assessment itself is typically faster than the temporary stage.
Can I travel while my partner visa is being processed?
On the 820, yes, with the right bridging visa arrangements. On the 309, you’re expected to remain outside Australia until it’s granted, unless you hold another valid visa.
What happens if the Department asks for more documents?
Your file goes on hold until you respond, which can add weeks or months to your processing time — so respond as quickly and completely as you can.
Do I need to prove my relationship is genuine for a partner visa?
Yes, you’ll need to provide evidence like joint finances, shared living arrangements, and social recognition of your relationship to satisfy the Department that it’s genuine and ongoing.
How much does a partner visa cost in Australia in 2026?
The main applicant pays AUD $11,710, which covers both the temporary and permanent stages. This applies whether you’re on the onshore 820/801 or offshore 309/100 pathway.
Is the partner visa fee refundable if I’m refused?
No, the fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome, even if your application is unsuccessful.
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