This visa is for those in committed relationships on a married or defacto basis who currently reside outside Australia.

The offshore partner visa allows you to enter and remain in Australia on the basis of your married or de-facto relationship with your partner (a) on a temporary immigration visa (usually for a waiting period of approximately two (2) years from the date you applied for the visa) or (b) on a permanent visa if, after the waiting period (if applicable), your partner relationship still exists and you are still eligible for this visa.

This visa includes dependent children and other eligible dependent relatives.

Who is eligible for an Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309)?

Married Applicants

Your marriage must be legal under Australian Law. If you were married in a country other than Australia and that marriage is valid in that country, generally, it will be recognised as valid under Australian law. There are some exceptions, such as same-sex, underage or polygamous marriages, which are not accepted in Australia. Same-sex couples are not eligible for this visa.

De Facto Applicants

You and your partner must have been in a de-facto relationship for the entire 12 months immediately prior to making application and you must have been living together for at least 12 months immediately before application.  Same sex couples can apply under this subclass and use the same criteria.

The 12-month requirement may be waived if (a) you can demonstrate compelling and compassionate circumstances, (e.g. you and partner have children) or (b) you have registered your defacto relationship in an Australian State or Territory.

Other Requirements for an Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309)

You must be sponsored by an eligible sponsor. An eligible sponsor is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen, who undertakes sponsorship obligations. Usually, the sponsor is your partner and is over 18 years old.

You and your partner must show a mutual commitment to a shared life as husband and wife to the exclusion of all others. You and your partner must be living together or, if not, any separation must be only temporary. You must also have a genuine and continuing relationship with your partner.

Benefits of the Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309)

The temporary Partner visa (subclass 309) lets you come to Australia to live until a decision is made on your permanent Partner visa (subclass 100).

Note: In certain circumstances you can apply to go straight to permanent residency without the two year temporary residency requirement.

Looking for a Different Family Visa?

There are several other options available for families:

• The Prospective Marriage Visa
• The Onshore Partner Visa
• The Parent Visa
• The Contributory Parent Visa
• The Aged Parent Visa
• The Contributory Aged Parent Visa
• All Options For Dependant Children Visas
• The Remaining Relative Visa