Are you thinking about applying for an Australian Partner visa and curious about the partner visa timeline? You’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence the processing times for Australian Partner visas, offering you valuable insights and guidance to navigate the application process confidently.
Key Factors Affecting Processing Times
Several factors can influence the processing times of Australian Partner visas:
- Completeness of Application: Submitting a complete application with all required documents can significantly reduce delays. Missing information or documentation can lead to requests for further information, which can extend processing times.
- Volume of Applications: The number of applications received by the Department of Home Affairs can impact processing times. During peak periods, such as the end of the financial year or after major policy changes, processing times may be longer.
- Complexity of the Case: More complex cases, such as those involving previous visa refusals, criminal records, or extensive travel histories, may take longer to process as additional checks are required.
- Health and Character Checks: All applicants must undergo health and character checks. Delays in obtaining medical exams or police certificates can impact the overall processing time, as can any health waiver process where a significant medical condition is identified.
- Interview Requirements: In some rare cases, applicants or sponsors may be required to attend an interview, which can add to the processing time, especially if scheduling an interview is delayed.
- Verification of Information: The Department may need to verify the information provided in your application, including checking the authenticity of documents and the validity of your relationship. This verification process can take additional time.
Understanding the Two-Part Partner Visa Process
The process of applying for a Partner visa occurs in two stages:
- Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/309)
- This first stage requires applicants to prove to the Department of Home Affairs that they are in a genuine and continuing relationship. The Department evaluates four key criteria:
- The nature of the household
- Financial aspects of the relationship
- Nature of the commitment
- Social aspects of the relationship
- If the Department is satisfied, they will grant a provisional (subclass 820) or provisional (subclass 309) partner visa. This visa allows the applicant to live, work, and travel in Australia but they are still considered a temporary visa-holder despite being eligible for Medicare.
- Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100)
- Two years from the date of lodging the initial application, the temporary partner visa-holder becomes eligible to apply for a permanent partner visa. During this second stage, the applicant and sponsor must demonstrate that their relationship is continuing.
- If satisfied, the Department will grant a permanent partner visa (subclass 801 for onshore applications or subclass 100 for offshore applications).
Current Provisional Partner Visa Processing Times According to the Department of Home Affairs as of 20 June 2024
| Partner Visa Type (Subclass) | Processing Time |
| Subclass 820 (Onshore) | 14-40 months |
| Subclass 801 (Onshore) | 9-29 months |
| Subclass 309 (Offshore) | 17-30 months |
| Subclass 300 (Offshore) | 16-46 months |
| Subclass100 | 12-55 months |
The broad range of factors discussed above is responsible for the highly variable processing times published by Home Affairs.
NB: Where processing time traverses 24 months, the Department may proceed to grant the permanent stage visa immediately after temporary visa grant.
Conclusion
Understanding the factors that impact the processing times for Australian Partner visas can help you better prepare for the application process. Ensuring your application is complete, staying informed about potential delays, and seeking professional advice can significantly improve your chances of a smooth and timely approval.
At Longton Migration, we support you through every step of your partner visa timeline processing. Reach out to us today to make sure your application is strong and ready for a decision, maximising your chances of success.
*Disclaimer: This is intended as general information only and not to be construed as legal advice. The above information is subject to changes over time. You should always seek professional advice before taking any course of action.*
