What Is the Offshore Partner Visa?
The Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100) allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. Applicants must be outside of Australia when lodging their application and when the Subclass 309 visa is granted. This visa is granted in two stages – first the temporary 309 visa, followed by the permanent 100 visa once relationship requirements are met.
This pathway is designed for genuine couples who want to build a future together in Australia. By applying offshore, applicants can prepare their documentation in advance while continuing to live or work overseas.
Who Is It For?
The Offshore Partner Visa is suitable for:
Spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.
Couples who are in a genuine and continuing relationship and living outside of Australia.
Applicants who wish to move permanently to Australia to live with their partner.
Step-by-Step: Your Offshore Visa Journey
Assess whether you meet the relationship and visa criteria.
Step-by-Step: Your Offshore Visa Journey
Prepare documentation to demonstrate a genuine partnership (financial, household, social, and commitment aspects).
Step-by-Step: Your Offshore Visa Journey
Submit your Subclass 309/100 Partner Visa application while outside of Australia.
Step-by-Step: Your Offshore Visa Journey
If approved, you will receive the temporary visa and can move to Australia.
Step-by-Step: Your Offshore Visa Journey
After a qualifying period and further assessment, you may be granted the permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100).
- Confirm Eligibility & Relationship
- Collect Your Evidence
- Lodge Your Application
- Wait for Temporary Visa Grant (309)
- Progress to Permanent Visa (100)
Key Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement |
Details |
| Location |
 Must be outside of Australia at the time of application and Subclass 309 visa grant. |
| Relationship |
Must be married or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. |
| Age |
Applicants must be at least 18 years old (unless married). |
| Character & Health |
Must meet Australian health and character requirements. |
| Evidence of Relationship |
Evidence required across financial, household, social, and commitment aspects. |
The Four Pillars of a Genuine Relationship
| Pillar |
What to Show |
| Financial |
Joint accounts, shared bills, assets, or financial support. |
| Household |
Lease, mortgage, shared responsibilities, household statements. |
| Social |
Photos, travel plans, social events, friends/family declarations. |
| Commitment |
Personal statements, future plans, knowledge of each other’s life. |
Subclass 309/100 – Processing Times
The processing duration for visas depends on the visa stream and applicant profile together with government workload requirements. The official government source provides the most accurate and current information about visa processing times.
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Subclass 309/100 - FAQ
Do I need to be outside Australia to apply?
Yes. Both application and Subclass 309 visa grant require you to be offshore.
Can I include my children in the application?
Yes, dependent children can be included in your Partner Visa application.
How long does it take to move from the 309 to the 100 visa?
Usually around 2 years, unless you qualify for an exemption.
What happens if my relationship breaks down?
In limited circumstances (domestic violence, child custody, or death of the sponsor), the visa process may continue.
Let’s Secure Your Future Together
The 303/100 Partner Visa is more than paperwork—it’s the start of your shared life in Australia. We’ve helped countless couples make that dream real, and we can help you too.
Book a consultation with Questra today.
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