How to Get a Free Spousal Visa in Australia for Foreigners in 2025

If you’re married to or in a long-term relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you’re probably thinking about applying for a visa that allows you to live together in Australia. It’s possible—but it’s not as quick or easy as some people think. Australia takes relationship-based visas seriously, and the process involves detailed paperwork, waiting periods, and real evidence that your relationship is genuine.

This guide will walk you through the basics of how to apply for a Spouse Visa (also called the Partner Visa) in Australia, what you’ll need to prove, how long it can take, and what steps you should avoid if you don’t want delays. You don’t need a lawyer to get started, but you do need to be organised and honest.

What is the Spouse (Partner) Visa in Australia?

The visa you’re applying for is officially called the Partner Visa, and it comes in two main parts: Subclass 820/801 for those applying from inside Australia, and Subclass 309/100 for those applying from outside. Both are built on the same goal—allowing genuine couples to stay together in Australia.

You can apply if you are:

• Married to an Australian citizen or permanent resident

• In a de facto relationship for at least 12 months

• In a registered relationship in a state that allows it (this can remove the 12-month rule)

The process starts with a temporary visa (Subclass 820 or 309), and after two years, if your relationship is still ongoing, you can move to the permanent stage (Subclass 801 or 100).

What makes you eligible to apply?

To be eligible, both you and your partner must meet specific requirements.

As the applicant, you must:

• Be over 18 years old

• Be in a genuine and continuing relationship

• Be married or in a de facto partnership (same-sex couples are fully included)

• Meet health and character requirements

Your partner (the sponsor) must:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Be willing to sponsor you for at least two years

• Not have recently sponsored someone else on a partner visa

The relationship itself must be real—not just on paper. Immigration will look at how long you’ve been together, how you support each other financially, how you live together, and even how you’re seen by friends and family.

What documents do you need to prepare?

This part is where many people get stuck—not because it’s hard, but because it takes time and careful attention. You’ll need to show that your relationship is real, stable, and ongoing.

Here’s what you should gather:

Personal documents

• Passports for both partners

• Birth certificates

• Identity photos

• Police clearance certificates (from every country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more)

Relationship documents

• Marriage certificate (if married)

• Proof of living together (rental agreements, utility bills with both names)

• Shared bank accounts or financial support

• Photos over time showing your relationship

• Travel bookings, joint invitations, or messages showing your connection

• Statements from friends or family (at least two statutory declarations)

You’ll also write a relationship statement—a personal letter explaining how you met, how your relationship developed, and what your plans are for the future. Be honest and detailed. They want to hear your story in your own words.

How long does the process take?

Right now, most temporary partner visas (820 or 309) take between 9 and 18 months to process, depending on how complete your application is. The permanent visa (801 or 100) usually takes another 12 to 24 months after that, depending on your circumstances.

Yes, it’s a long wait—but the system is built that way to prevent fake applications. The good news is that during this time, if you apply while inside Australia, you can stay on a bridging visa with work rights and access to Medicare.

How much does it cost?

As of 2025, the government fee for the partner visa is AUD $8,850. This is paid upfront when you lodge the first stage of the visa. It’s expensive, but it covers both the temporary and permanent stages. If you add dependent children, there will be extra costs.

Keep in mind: the fee is not refunded if your application is refused. That’s why it’s so important to do everything correctly the first time.

Common mistakes to avoid

Many people delay or risk their visa by making simple but serious mistakes. Here’s what to avoid:

• Not providing enough evidence: You can’t just say “we’re married” or “we love each other.” You must prove it with documents and consistent details.

• Missing deadlines or updates: If immigration asks for more information and you don’t respond quickly, your case may be delayed or refused.

• Submitting inconsistent statements: If you and your partner give different dates or timelines in your documents, they’ll question the honesty of your application.

• Trying to cheat the system: Don’t use fake documents, rush into a marriage, or pretend to be in a relationship just to get the visa. The consequences are serious—and permanent.

Can you apply from outside Australia?

Yes. If you’re living outside Australia, you’ll apply for the Subclass 309/100 visa. The requirements are almost the same, but you must be outside the country when the temporary visa is granted. Once approved, you can enter Australia and wait for the permanent stage while living with your partner.

This route is common for couples who haven’t yet moved in together or were separated due to long-distance or travel restrictions.

What happens after you get permanent residency?

Once you receive the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100), you can live and work in Australia without restriction. You also gain access to Medicare, education, and other public services. After living in Australia as a permanent resident for a few years, you can apply for Australian citizenship, if you meet the requirements.

Your partner’s support is still important after you receive your visa. If you separate before the permanent stage and can’t show serious reasons (such as family violence), your application might be cancelled.

Final thoughts

Getting a spouse or partner visa for Australia takes time, effort, and patience—but it is absolutely achievable if your relationship is real and you follow the process properly. Be honest, provide strong evidence, and prepare your application carefully.

Many couples make the mistake of rushing or assuming that love alone is enough. It’s not. Immigration wants proof—documents, details, and consistency. But if you take it seriously and submit a strong application, you’ll have a real chance to build your life together in Australia.