Marriage between individuals from different cultures and nationalities is increasingly common. In Australia, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced partner visas for spouses or soon-to-be spouses of eligible citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens. For those with partners in Australia, understanding the categories of spouses is essential.

A spouse is someone legally valid to get married in Australia, while a de facto partner shares a mutual commitment and doesn’t permanently live separately. The de facto visa applies in such cases. A fiance or fiancée is engaged to be married, and this visa can grant temporary or permanent residence. It’s available for applicants residing in or outside Australia. If your goal is to be with your partner in Australia, the partner visas are tailored for you:

1. Prospective Marriage Visa (subclass 300)

2. Partner Visa (subclasses 309 and 100) – Offshore

3. Partner Visa (subclasses 820 and 801) – Onshore