Partner Visa Checklist 2026

🇦🇺 The 2026 Partner Visa (309/820) Premium Evidence Checklist

A Migrate2Australia Exclusive Resource

Applying for a Partner Visa can be overwhelming — but missing the right evidence is the #1 reason for delays and refusals.

This premium checklist gives you a clear, structured roadmap to prepare a strong, decision-ready application.

What You’ll Get:

✔ Complete Legal Requirement Checklist
✔ The “4 Pillars” Evidence Framework (what actually matters)
✔ Real examples of proof you should include
✔ 2026 “Digital-First” requirements
✔ Pro tips to avoid common mistakes

Who Is This For?

• Couples applying for Subclass 309 (Offshore)
• Couples applying for Subclass 820 (Onshore)
• Anyone who wants to avoid delays, RFIs, or refusals

Why This Checklist Works

Instead of guessing, you’ll know exactly:

• What documents to collect
• How to structure your evidence
• What immigration officers look for

Instant Download

After purchase, you’ll get:

• ✔ Instant access to your downloadable PDF
• ✔ Easy-to-follow checklist format

Important Note

This is a digital product. No physical item will be shipped.

Financial Aspects

Show how you share financial responsibilities

✔ Joint bank account statements (active use)
✔Joint ownership of property or joint leases
✔ Shared utility bills (electricity, gas, water)
✔ Beneficiary listings on insurance or superannuation

 Nature of the Household

Show how you live together and manage your home:

• Joint rental agreements or mortgages
• Correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address
• Evidence of shared responsibility for housework and childcare
• Joint travel bookings or shared major purchases

Social Aspects

Show that others recognize you as a couple:

• Form 888s (statutory declarations from friends and family)
• Photos together at events (weddings, outings, etc.)
• Joint invitations or memberships (gyms, clubs)
• Evidence of joint travel or activities

Nature of the Commitment

Show your long-term plan and emotional bond:

• Statements detailing your relationship history
• Knowledge of each other’s background and family
• Plans for a long-term future (e.g., wills)
• Proof of communication during separation (calls, chats)

Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100)

Step-by-Step Content & Compliance Roadmap 

Step 1: Eligibility 

Before commencing your application, ensure you meet the following core criteria for either the Onshore (Subclass 820/801) or Offshore (Subclass 309/100) streams: 

• Marriage/De Facto Requirements: You must be legally married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. 

• 12-month rule (De Facto): If not married, you must generally demonstrate a de facto relationship of at least 12 months immediately preceding the application, unless exempt (e.g., relationship registration or compelling/compassionate circumstances). 

• Health & Character: All applicants must meet the health (medical examinations) and character (police clearances) requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. 

Step 2: Document Gathering 

The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence to prove your relationship is genuine and continuing. A practical way to organise your evidence is around the “4 pillars”: 

• Identity (both applicant & sponsor): Passports/ID, birth certificates (if available), name change documents (if applicable), and evidence of current lawful status (where relevant). 

• Relationship Evidence – 4 pillars: 

Step 3: ImmiAccount Lodgement 

To lodge your application, follow these steps: 

• Create/Login to ImmiAccount: Access the portal via the Department of Home Affairs website. 

• Applicant form vs Sponsor form: The applicant lodges the partner visa application first. The sponsor then completes the sponsorship application and links it to the main application. 

• Complete the Applicant Form: Fill out the partner visa application in ImmiAccount. 

• Pay the Visa Application Charge (VAC): Payment must be made through ImmiAccount for the application to be considered “lodged.” 

• Complete the Sponsor Form: After lodgement, the sponsor completes the sponsorship application in ImmiAccount and links it to the applicant’s application (using the relevant linking options/identifiers in ImmiAccount). 
• Attach Documents: Upload high-quality colour scans of supporting evidence into the respective categories. Ensure files are under 5MB and in PDF, JPG, or PNG format. 

Visa Conditions (820/309: Work & Study rights) 

Once a temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820 or 309) is granted, the following conditions usually apply: 

• Work and Study Rights: Full work and study rights are generally granted in Australia. 

• Travel Rights: Unrestricted travel to and from Australia while the visa remains valid. 

• Medicare: Applicants for the 820 visa are typically eligible to enrol in Medicare. 

• Note: If applying onshore, you will usually be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) which takes effect when your current substantive visa expires. Ensure you understand the travel restrictions (Bridging Visa B requirement) if you intend to leave Australia during processing. 

Fees 

The cost of a Partner Visa application is significant and subject to regular updates. 

• Current Visa Application Charge (VAC): Approximately $9,095 for most primary applicants (check the official page for the latest amount): https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/fees-and-charges/current-visa-pricing. 

• Note: Fees usually increase on 1 July. 

Processing Times 

Processing times for Partner Visas vary based on the quality of the application and individual circumstances. 

• Global Processing Guide: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-visa-processing-times. 

Disclaimer: Visa outcomes are at the sole discretion of the Department of Home Affairs. Migrate2Australia Pty Ltd does not guarantee the grant of any visa. This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Immigration laws are subject to frequent change; always consult with a Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your specific circumstances. 

Need Expert Assistance? If you find the process overwhelming or want to ensure your application meets the 98% success standard maintained by our experts, we are here to help. 

• Complete our Assessment Form: https://forms.fillout.com/t/exV25qTBfWus 

• Book a Consultation: Click HERE to email our team and book a consultation with an expert migration agent.