Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 100): Your Step-by-Step Guide to Joining Your Partner in Australia
Want to join your partner in Australia? Discover the full process of applying for the Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 100) in this step-by-step guide.
Love knows no boundaries—but immigration laws certainly do. If you’re in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and living outside of Australia, the Offshore Partner Visa details could be your key to starting a new life together Down Under.
Everything you need to know is covered in this guide, including eligibility, supporting papers, the application procedure, processing dates, practical advice, and how to increase your chances of success. This essay is designed to help you at every stage, regardless of how far along you are in your research or how new you are to the process.
What is the Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 100)?
The Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 100) is a permanent visa granted to partners of eligible Australians. It’s typically granted to applicants who have already applied for and been granted the temporary Subclass 309 visa. Both visas are part of a combined application process but granted in two stages.
This visa allows you to:
- Live in Australia permanently
- Work and study without restrictions
- Access Medicare
- Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
- Sponsor eligible family members
Who Can Apply?
To apply for the Subclass 100 visa, you must:
- Be outside Australia when lodging the application
- Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your Australian partner
- Hold a temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309)
- Continue to meet character, health, and relationship requirements
Your relationship can be:
- Married
- In a de facto relationship (must be at least 12 months unless registered)
- A same-sex partnership
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Lodge a Combined Application (Subclass 309/100)
You must apply for both visas simultaneously via the Department of Home Affairs portal.
2. Submit All Required Documents
Prepare and upload:
- Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)
- Relationship evidence (photos, messages, joint bank accounts)
- Character certificates (police clearances)
- Health checks
3. Wait for Subclass 309 Approval
This is the temporary partner visa, which allows you to enter and live in Australia while your permanent Subclass 100 is being assessed.
4. Department Review for Subclass 100 visa guide
After living together and demonstrating the ongoing nature of your relationship, the government may contact you for updates and additional documents.
5. Receive Your Subclass 100 Visa
Once granted, you become a permanent resident of Australia.
Key Timelines and Costs
- Processing Time: Usually 12 to 24 months for Subclass 100 after receiving the 309 visa.
- Visa Fee: Starts at AUD 8,850 (as of 2025), payable once at the beginning of the combined application.
Real-Life Example
Meet Ana and Mark
Ana, a teacher from the Philippines, met Mark, an Australian citizen, during a volunteer program in Thailand. They maintained a long-distance relationship for two years and gathered extensive documentation—travel records, conversations, financial sharing, and statements from friends. After Ana applied offshore, she received her 309 visa in 13 months. One year after living together in Australia, she was granted her Subclass 100 visa, finally making her a permanent resident.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
- Full work and study rights
- Access to healthcare (Medicare)
- Permanent residency for you and eligible dependents
Cons:
- Long processing times
- Requires ongoing evidence of relationship
- Costly application fees
FAQs
Q1: Can I travel while my visa is processing?
Yes, but you must be offshore when the visa is granted.
Q2: Can my partner sponsor me again if our application is refused?
Yes, but specific waiting periods and conditions may apply.
Q3: How do I prove my relationship is genuine?
Through shared finances, communication logs, joint travel, household responsibilities, and social proof from family or friends.
Expert Tips to Improve Your Application
- Submit clear and consistent evidence for all 4 relationship aspects: financial, social, nature of household, and commitment.
- Use statutory declarations from both partners and at least two Australian citizens.
- Keep records updated until your Subclass 100 is granted.
Conclusion
The Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 100) is more than just paperwork—it’s your bridge to building a life with the one you love in Australia. Though the process can be detailed and time-consuming, understanding what’s required and preparing thoroughly can significantly improve your chances.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your relationship and your future, this visa could be the gateway you need.
