The subclass 309/100 pathway is commonly used where the Partner visa application is made outside Australia. The provisional and permanent stages are linked, but the relationship evidence and the applicant’s circumstances must remain coherent throughout the process.
Who this pathway is generally for
- The applicant is generally outside Australia when the application is made.
- The sponsor is an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- The parties are married or in a qualifying de facto relationship, subject to the applicable rules.
How the process usually works
- Prepare the provisional and permanent Partner visa application pathway.
- Present the relationship chronology and evidence in a way that explains how the relationship developed and continues.
- Address sponsor eligibility, prior migration history, health and character matters.
- Update the Department if material circumstances change while the application is pending.
Issues that commonly need closer analysis
- periods of living apart
- limited joint financial evidence
- previous relationships or sponsorship history
- children and family circumstances
- inconsistent forms, statements or travel history
Why the details matter
Visa criteria often operate together with application-validity rules, location requirements, previous immigration history and evidence requirements. Two people applying for the same subclass can therefore face very different legal and evidentiary issues.
Last reviewed: 6 October 2026. Migration law and policy can change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.