The Partner Visa
Same–Sex couples can apply for a Partner Visa where:
- their married or de-facto partner relationship is genuine and ongoing, and,
- the Australian partner is an Australian citizen, Australian Permanent resident or eligible New Zealand Citizen, and, sponsors the non Australian partner.
The Partner Visa allows the non-Australian partner to apply to live permanently in Australia.
Main requirements
- a shared life as partners to the exclusion of all others, living together, or, not living separately and apart on a permanent basis;
- de facto partners living in a 12-month partner relationship immediately before applying; or,
- de facto relationship registration, and, the provision of substantial de facto relationship documentary evidence; and,
2 Stage Partner Visa Application Process

STAGE 1
Partner Temporary Visa Application
The Same-Sex Couple:
Stage 1 results in Partner Temporary Visa approval pending a decision on the Partner Permanent Visa Application.
If the couple demonstrate a long-term partner relationship, the Partner Permanent Residence Visa is approved at Stage 1.

STAGE 2
Partner Permanent Visa Application
The Same-Sex Couple:
Stage 2 results in Partner Permanent Residence Visa approval.
Lodgement of Partner Visa Application
Applying inside Australia
The Partner Visa Applicant:
Applying outside Australia
The Partner Visa Applicant: