Subclass 309 / 100 Partner visa (offshore)
Partners or spouses applying from outside Australia. Same relationship basis as the onshore partner visa.
The Partner visa (offshore) (subclass 309 / 100) is an Australian family & partner visa. This guide covers who the 309 / 100 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (≈ $9,365 (covers both stages)) and processing time (≈ 12–24+ months for the 309 stage), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 309 / 100 visa is for
Partners or spouses applying from outside Australia. Same relationship basis as the onshore partner visa.
The 100 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later.
Subclass 309 / 100 eligibility criteria
- A genuine and continuing relationship (married or eligible de facto)
- An eligible Australian sponsor
- Comprehensive relationship evidence
- Health and character requirements
- Be outside Australia when the visa is granted
Subclass 309 / 100 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Partner visa (offshore) (subclass 309 / 100) is ≈ $9,365 (covers both stages), with an indicative processing time of ≈ 12–24+ months for the 309 stage. Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary → Permanent |
|---|---|
| Location | Offshore |
| Length of stay | 309 (temporary) then 100 (permanent) |
| Work rights | Unlimited (once granted and in Australia) |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ≈ $9,365 (covers both stages) |
| Processing time | ≈ 12–24+ months for the 309 stage |
| Pathway to PR | The 100 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later. |
Pathway & next steps
The 100 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later.
Many applicants also compare the 820 / 801 (Partner visa (onshore)), the 300 (Prospective Marriage visa), the 445 (Dependent Child visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 309 / 100 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 309 / 100 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 309 / 100 visa cost?
The Partner visa (offshore) (subclass 309 / 100) base application charge is ≈ $9,365 (covers both stages). Government charges are indicative for 2025–26 and usually change on 1 July — always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 309 / 100 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ≈ 12–24+ months for the 309 stage. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 309 / 100 visa lead to permanent residence?
The 100 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later.
Can I work on the subclass 309 / 100 visa?
Work rights on the Partner visa (offshore) (subclass 309 / 100): Unlimited (once granted and in Australia).
Who can apply for the 309 / 100 visa?
Partners or spouses applying from outside Australia. Same relationship basis as the onshore partner visa.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change — confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) — official Australian immigration authority