There are two partner visa pathways:

• Onshore (820 then 801) — apply in Australia, if your current visa allows it
• Offshore (309 then 100) — apply from outside Australia and be outside when the first visa is granted

Before travelling on a visitor visa, check its conditions. Many carry No Further Stay, and it's been announced for all future visitor visas.

Home Affairs looks at your relationship across four areas:

1. Finances — joint accounts, shared bills, money transfers
2. Household — living together, shared lease, mail to the same address
3. Social — photos over time, invitations, travel, friends who know you as a couple
4. Commitment — communication history, future plans, knowledge of each other

Before you lodge

• Agree one timeline of your relationship and use it everywhere
• Make sure the sponsor completes their part at the same time
• Get two Form 888 declarations from people who know you as a couple
• Check every date matches across statements and documents

After you lodge

You'll usually get the temporary visa first, then the permanent stage about 2 years after applying. Keep adding evidence as your life together continues.