If you’re planning to join your partner in Australia, applying for a partner visa is an essential step—but choosing the right type of visa is just as important. The Australian Government offers two pathways: the onshore partner visa (subclass 820/801) and the offshore partner visa (subclass 309/100).
Understanding the differences between these visa subclasses can help you avoid unnecessary delays, especially if you’re currently in a different country or already in Australia. In this article, we’ll break down the key distinctions between onshore and offshore applications, including eligibility, benefits, and common considerations for New Zealanders migrating to Australia or those supporting a partner’s application.
What Is the Onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)?
The onshore partner visa is designed for applicants who are already in Australia when applying. It is a two-stage process:
- Stage 1: Apply for both the temporary visa (subclass 820) and permanent visa (subclass 801) together.
- Stage 2: Lodged approximately two years later, to confirm that the relationship is still genuine and ongoing.
To be eligible, you must be the spouse or de facto partner of an:
- Australian citizen
- Permanent resident of Australia
- Eligible New Zealand citizen
You must be in Australia when lodging your stage 1 application. However, you can be in or outside of Australia when the subclass 820 visa is granted. You can also be in or outside of Australia for the stage 2 (subclass 801) application and grant.
Benefits of the Onshore Partner Visa
- Access to Medicare while your visa is being processed
- Eligibility for a Bridging Visa A (BVA) once your current visa expires, which provides full work and study rights
- Option to apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to travel internationally
- Can remain in Australia while waiting for a decision
To check current processing times, refer to the official Department of Home Affairs visa processing guide.
To explore your eligibility for an onshore visa, consult our Partner Visa Services.
What Is the Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309/100)?
The offshore partner visa is for applicants outside of Australia when applying. It also follows a two-stage process:
- Stage 1: Apply for both the temporary visa (subclass 309) and permanent visa (subclass 100) together.
- Stage 2: Lodged two years later to confirm the relationship is ongoing.
Eligibility is the same—you must be the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealander. However, the key difference is location:
- You must be outside of Australia to lodge the stage 1 application
- You can now be in or outside of Australia at the time the subclass 309 visa is granted (if holding a valid visa)
- You can be in or outside of Australia for the stage 2 application and decision
An important distinction is that offshore applicants can apply based on an intended marriage, provided the marriage occurs before a decision is made.
Benefits of the Offshore Partner Visa
- Often faster processing times (typically around 13 months) for stage 1
- You may still visit Australia on a visitor visa while waiting for approval
- Once granted, you gain access to:
- Medicare
- Work and study rights
- Unlimited travel
- Free English classes (if eligible)
If you’re considering a long-distance application, our team can help guide you through the Subclass 309 visa process.
Key Differences Between Onshore and Offshore Partner Visas
| Aspect | Onshore Visa (820/801) | Offshore Visa (309/100) |
| Location at application | Must be in Australia | Must be outside Australia |
| Bridging Visa | Eligible for Bridging Visa A with full rights | No bridging visa—must hold another visa to enter |
| Processing time | Approx. 12–18 months | Approx. 12–18 months |
| Access to Medicare | Yes (after application is lodged) | Yes (after subclass 309 is granted) |
| Work rights | Yes (via bridging visa) | Yes (after subclass 309 is granted) |
| Eligible for intended marriage? | No | Yes, if married before visa decision is made |
Which Partner Visa Should You Apply For?
Choosing between the onshore and offshore partner visa depends largely on your current location, visa status, and how urgently you wish to reunite with your partner. If you’re already in Australia and hold a valid visa, an onshore application is likely more convenient.
If you’re overseas and facing delays entering Australia, an offshore partner visa may be faster—especially if you already have plans to marry your partner.
For applicants sponsoring or joining family from overseas, it may also be worth reviewing options such as the Parent Visa for long-term reunification support.
Need Help with a Partner Visa Application?
Whether you’re considering an onshore or offshore application, lodging a partner visa is a complex process. Documentation, timelines, and eligibility rules can be overwhelming—especially for first-time applicants.
At Hansen Migration, our registered migration agents have helped hundreds of couples successfully lodge partner visa applications, both from within and outside of Australia.
Visit our FAQ page for common questions, or speak with us directly.
Book a free consultation today for tailored advice on your situation.
