If you’re in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and you’re living overseas, the Partner Visa 309 might be the bridge that brings you together in Australia. This visa is often the first step in a two stage process that allows couples to live and build a future together in Australia.
Let’s break down the essentials of the partner visa Australia 309 including what it is, who can apply, what’s on the partner visa 309 checklist, and how long you can expect the partner visa 309 processing time to be.
What Is the Partner Visa 309?
The Partner Visa Subclass 309 is a temporary visa for people who are outside of Australia and in a genuine relationship with someone who is legally living in Australia. It allows the applicant to stay in Australia while their permanent Partner Visa 100 application is processed.
This visa is ideal for couples who want to reunite or start their life together in Australia, whether they’re married or in a de facto relationship. Once the Subclass 309 is granted, the applicant can live, work, and study in Australia.
Who Can Apply?
To apply for the Partner Visa 309, you must be outside of Australia at the time of application. Your partner, who will act as your sponsor, must be:
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An Australian citizen,
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An Australian permanent resident, or
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An eligible New Zealand citizen.
You can apply as a spouse (if legally married) or as a de facto partner, including same sex couples. If you’re in a de facto relationship, you’ll need to show you’ve been together for at least 12 months—unless your relationship is officially registered in an Australian state or territory.
Partner Visa 309 Checklist
One of the most important parts of lodging a successful application is making sure your documentation is complete. Here’s a handy partner visa 309 checklist to guide you:
Personal Documents:
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Valid passport
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Birth certificate
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National ID cards (if applicable)
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Passport sized photos
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Police clearance certificates from all countries you’ve lived in for 12+ months
Relationship Evidence:
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Marriage certificate (if married)
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Proof of shared financial commitments (bank accounts, utility bills, etc.)
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Joint lease or mortgage documents
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Travel history and photos together
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Screenshots of messages, emails, and call logs
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Statements from friends and family confirming your relationship (Form 888)
Sponsor Documents:
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Proof of citizenship or permanent residency
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Completed sponsorship forms
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Police clearance for sponsor (if requested)
Health & Character:
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Undergo a health check with an approved clinic
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Provide police checks from each relevant country
Having all of this documentation ready from the start will help reduce delays and show immigration officers that your relationship is genuine.
Partner Visa 309 Processing Time
A big question on every applicant’s mind is: how long does it take?
As of 2025, the partner visa 309 processing time can vary. On average:
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75% of applications are processed within 13 to 15 months
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90% of applications are processed in up to 20 months
Processing times can be faster or slower depending on your situation. Common factors that affect the timeline include:
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How complete your application is
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Whether additional information is needed
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How quickly you complete your health exams and police checks
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The current demand at the Department of Home Affairs
To avoid unnecessary delays, it’s best to double check your application against the partner visa 309 checklist before submitting it.
What Happens After It’s Granted?
Once your Partner Visa 309 is granted, you can:
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Travel to and live in Australia
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Work and study without restriction
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Enroll in Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
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Access certain social benefits (if eligible)
The visa remains valid while your permanent Partner Visa 100 application is being processed—usually about two years from the time of your initial application. During this time, you may be asked to provide further evidence that your relationship is still ongoing.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
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Keep evidence updated – Start gathering and organizing documents early.
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Document everything – Save proof of communication, financial ties, and shared living arrangements.
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Use Form 888 wisely – These third party declarations carry weight, especially when signed by Australian citizens.
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Stay honest – Be truthful in all parts of the application. Inconsistencies can cause major delays.
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Consider a migration agent – A registered professional can help reduce errors and improve your application’s strength.
Final Thoughts
The Partner Visa 309 is more than just a visa it’s a way for couples to build their lives together in Australia. With the right preparation, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of the partner visa 309 checklist and processing time, you can improve your chances of a successful outcome.
If you’re serious about making Australia your new home with your loved one, don’t leave the process to chance. Plan ahead, stay organized, and reach out for expert advice if you need it.
