One visa, three pathways
The Australian partner visa lets the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia. There is no single "partner visa" — there are three pathways, and which one you use is decided largely by where you are and whether you are married. (Looking to bring a parent rather than a partner? See parent visas for Australia.)
Onshore — subclass 820 then 801
If you are in Australia when you lodge, you apply for the onshore pathway: the subclass 820 (temporary) leading to the subclass 801 (permanent). You are generally granted a Bridging Visa A while you wait, which lets you stay and usually work. You apply for both stages together; the permanent 801 is typically assessed around two years after lodgement.
Offshore — subclass 309 then 100
If you are outside Australia when you lodge, you apply for the offshore pathway: the subclass 309 (provisional) leading to the subclass 100 (permanent). You generally need to be offshore when the first decision is made. The structure mirrors the onshore route — combined application, permanent stage assessed later.
Engaged, not married — subclass 300
If you are engaged but haven't married and don't yet meet the de facto threshold, the Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300) is the starting point. It lets you come to Australia, marry within nine months, and then apply for the onshore 820/801. It adds a step and cost, but it is the right route for engaged couples who are apart.
How to choose
Your physical location at lodgement is the first filter, your relationship stage is the second. De facto couples generally need to show they have lived together for at least 12 months, unless the relationship is registered with an Australian state or another exception applies. Whichever pathway fits, every one of them stands or falls on the same thing — the quality of your relationship evidence.
Next steps
Partner visas are among the most expensive and most evidence-heavy in the system, and the wrong pathway choice is costly. Book a consultation and we'll confirm which pathway fits your situation before you spend anything.
This article is general information only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Please book a consultation for advice specific to your circumstances.