Reviewed by Paula McGeown, Principal Lawyer · Updated
What a partner visa costs.
The visa application charge is paid when you lodge. It covers both the temporary stage (820 or 309) and the permanent stage (801 or 100), which are applied for together.
| Applicant | Amount |
|---|---|
| Main applicant: onshore (820/801), offshore (309/100) or prospective marriage (300) | $11,710 |
| Each family member aged 18 or over | $5,860 |
| Each child under 18 | $2,935 |
Also budget for health examinations, police certificates from each country you have lived in, certified translations, and professional fees if you use a lawyer. A prospective marriage visa holder who marries and then applies for the onshore partner visa pays a further, lower charge for that application.
How long a partner visa takes.
| Subclass | 50% decided within | 90% decided within |
|---|---|---|
| 820 · onshore temporary | 22 months | 30 months |
| 801 · onshore permanent | 8 months | 19 months |
| 309 · offshore temporary | 21 months | 32 months |
| 100 · offshore permanent | 9 months | 21 months |
| 300 · prospective marriage | 14 months | 26 months |
The permanent stage is generally assessed about two years after the combined application was lodged. If you apply in Australia, a bridging visa usually lets you stay while the application is processed. Your work and travel rights depend on its conditions.
How to avoid delays.
- Lodge a decision-ready application. Provide relationship evidence across the four areas Home Affairs considers: financial, household, social and commitment.
- Deal with history upfront. Address previous visa refusals, a sponsor’s earlier partner sponsorships, or character issues in the application rather than waiting to be asked.
- Keep police and health checks current, and respond to any request within the time allowed.
- Update Home Affairs about changes of address, new children or changes in circumstances.
Where a relationship spans countries and also involves property, children or a divorce elsewhere, the family law position should be considered alongside the visa. See cross-border family law.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the partner visa fee in 2026?
From 1 July 2026, it is $11,710 for the main applicant, $5,860 for each additional applicant aged 18 or over and $2,935 for each child under 18.
Do I pay again for the permanent stage?
No. The charge paid at lodgement covers both stages of an onshore (820/801) or offshore (309/100) application.
Can I pay the partner visa fee in instalments?
Home Affairs requires the charge to be paid in full when you lodge.
Can processing be sped up?
There is no paid priority service. Applications that are complete and well evidenced when lodged avoid the delays that come from requests for further information.