01 / The starting point
What needs to line up.
A useful assessment looks at the requirements together, in the context of your circumstances.
- Be the genuine spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- The applicant and accompanying applicants must be outside Australia when lodging; the 309 decision can occur in or outside Australia.
- Have an approved partner sponsor and meet health, character and applicable relationship-duration requirements.
A summary of key criteria, not a complete eligibility test. Stream-specific requirements and exceptions need individual assessment.
02 / Prepare with purpose
The evidence behind
your story.
- Passports, civil-status documents and sponsor citizenship or residence evidence.
- Relationship history and documents supporting your shared commitments.
- Updated evidence for the permanent stage and any requested police or health checks.
Keep records accurate and consistent. Agree a secure method before sharing personal documents.
03 / Understand the stages
A clearer view of
the process.
- 01
Prepare the combined 309/100 application and lodge from the correct location.
- 02
Arrange the partner sponsorship and respond to information requests.
- 03
Normally provide permanent-stage documents after two years from the combined application; qualifying exceptions can allow earlier assessment.
04 / Make informed decisions
Details that matter.
- The two-year milestone is an eligibility point, not a processing guarantee.
- Separation, bereavement or family violence requires careful assessment; permanent eligibility may continue under special provisions.
- Permanent residence and the travel facility are different: check re-entry arrangements after the initial five-year travel facility.
05 / Plan realistically
Costs, timing
and expectations.
Understand the total
Government charges, professional fees and expenses such as assessments, tests or translations are separate. Confirm the current charges and agreed scope before committing.
Allow for uncertainty
Published processing times are indicative. Individual cases, evidence requests and programme settings can affect timing. Avoid relying on an expected decision date for irreversible plans.
Go to the source
Official information
General information only. Check current Home Affairs requirements before acting. No invitation, visa decision or processing time is guaranteed.