Partner Visa Waiting Time Australia

At a glance: As of 2026, most onshore Subclass 820 applications are decided within 16–24 months, and offshore Subclass 309 applications within 14–24 months, according to Department of Home Affairs data. The permanent stage (801 or 100) is generally assessed around two years after your original application. Figures change monthly — always check the official processing time tool before making plans around a specific date.

If you're refreshing ImmiAccount every second day wondering why nothing's moved, you're not alone. Partner visa waiting time in Australia is one of the most searched — and most misunderstood — parts of the whole process. Here's what's actually going on, and what you can and can't do about it.

How Long Does a Partner Visa Take in Australia?

A partner visa isn't one decision — it's two, lodged together but assessed years apart. Stage one is your temporary visa (820 or 309). Stage two is your permanent visa (801 or 100), which can't be assessed until roughly two years have passed. For most applicants, that means a partner visa processing time in Australia of around three to four years from lodgement to permanent residency — even though most of that time is spent living, working, and accessing Medicare in Australia on a valid bridging or temporary visa.

Partner Visa 820 Processing Time (Onshore)

For the partner visa 820 waiting time onshore, current published figures suggest roughly 50% of applications are decided within 16 months, and 90% within 24 months. Some cases move faster — particularly decision-ready applications from couples with three or more years together, which can sometimes see the 820 and 801 granted simultaneously.

Partner Visa 309 Processing Time (Offshore)

The partner visa 309 offshore processing time tracks closely with the onshore pathway — typically 14 to 24 months for the temporary stage. Offshore applicants don't get a bridging visa, so this wait is spent apart unless you're eligible for a different visa to enter Australia in the meantime.

Partner Visa 801 and 100: The Permanent Stage

Once you're eligible (generally two years after lodgement), the partner visa 801 permanent visa waiting time and Subclass 100 assessment typically add a further several months on top — Home Affairs data points to a range of roughly 6 months once the case becomes eligible for assessment, though this varies by individual circumstances and evidence quality.