Offshore partner visa (subclasses 309 and 100)

A partner visa for a couple where the applicant applies from outside Australia.

Subclasses 309 and 100

Subclass 309 is the temporary offshore partner visa. Subclass 100 is the permanent stage.

The relationship test is the same idea as the onshore partner visa. The applicant is outside Australia for the 309 decision.

The sponsor is an Australian citizen, an Australian permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
The couple are spouses, or de facto partners, in a genuine and continuing relationship.
A de facto relationship usually has to have existed for 12 months, unless it is registered or there are compelling reasons to waive that period.
The applicant is outside Australia when the subclass 309 visa is decided.
The sponsor meets the sponsorship requirements.
Health and character requirements.

Subclass 309 is the temporary visa.
Subclass 100 is the permanent visa, considered later if the relationship continues.
The application can be lodged as a combined application.

Financial, household, social and commitment evidence, including for periods the couple lived in different countries.
Identity documents and proof of the sponsor’s status.
Couples who are already together in Australia usually look at the onshore partner visa instead.

Plain-language explanations so you can make informed decisions about your migration options.

Tailored strategies that reflect your unique circumstances, goals and timeframe.

Focused on achieving the strongest available outcome through ethical, evidence-based practice.

Costs explained upfront before work begins — no surprises, ever.

We will tell you whether 309 is the right visa, or whether the couple should be looking at an onshore application.