Allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia; the temporary (309) and permanent (100) visas are applied for together.
At a Glance
- Stay: 309: temporarily until the permanent 100 application is finalised or withdrawn. 100: permanently
- Visa cost: From AUD11,710.00 (covers both the 309 and 100 applications) (Concessions apply in limited circumstances. From 1 July 2026 a lower cost applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. Use the Visa Pricing Estimator; other costs are not included.)
Who It Is For
- In a genuine relationship with a spouse or de facto partner who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen
- Must be outside Australia when applying for the 309
- The 100 is usually granted to people who hold a 309 visa
What You Can Do With This Visa
- Live in Australia as a partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen
- 309 is the first step towards the permanent subclass 100 visa
- 100 lets you live in Australia permanently
Good to Know
- Apply for the 309 and 100 together; one cost covers both
- Permanent visa processing time starts two years after you applied
- Applications are processed under Ministerial Direction 117 (family visa priorities)
- Processing times can be longer than expected
Getting Advice
Our registered migration agents can talk through your situation, explain whether this visa suits you and help you prepare. This page is general information only, summarised from the Department of Home Affairs and checked in November 2026. Fees and rules change, so always check the official page before you apply.
Official information: the Department of Home Affairs page for this visa.