Partner Visa 309 vs 820: What’s the Difference Between Offshore and Onshore Partner Visas?

that are Many people who get confused between the Partner Visa 309 and 820. Both are for real couples where one partner is Australian, a PR, or a New Zealander. The main difference is whether you apply from inside or outside Australia. This small thing changes the process. Here, we’ll simply explain eligibility, cost, and what happens after visa approval.

Understanding the Partner Visa 309

The partner visa 309 is for people outside Australia. You must be overseas when applying and when it’s granted. It lets you join your Australian partner and live there temporarily before moving to the permanent 100 visa.

A few quick things to know:

• You apply from outside Australia.

• You must remain outside until it is granted.

• It leads to permanent residency through the 100 visa.

• It allows you to work, study, and travel freely in Australia once approved.

One applicant once said, “I applied while waiting overseas, and honestly, the waiting felt longer than the flight itself.” It shows how patience really matters in this stage.

Understanding the Partner Visa 820

Now, the partner visa 820 is the onshore version. This one is for people who are already inside Australia on another valid visa.

When you apply for the 820, you also automatically apply for the partner visa 801, which is the permanent stage that comes later. So, you do not need to apply again separately later; it is a two-step process from the start.

To make it clearer:

• You apply while you are in Australia.

• You must be in Australia when the visa is granted.

• You can stay, work, and study while waiting for a decision.

For many couples, this is the better choice because they can stay together during the process, but the main condition is that the applicant must already hold a valid visa when applying.

Eligibility Criteria – Are They the Same?

Both visas need the same things. You must be in a real, ongoing relationship, married or de facto, with an eligible partner.

You will also need to:

• Show shared financial and social responsibilities.

• Provide police checks and medicals.

• Show you live together or have plans to do so.

The difference comes down to timing and location. The partner visa 309 expects you to be offshore during key stages, while the 820 allows you to remain in Australia.

Application Process and Timeline

The steps for both visas are somewhat alike: you submit your forms, upload evidence, and wait for assessment.

For a partner visa 309, you will wait outside Australia until the visa is approved. You can then travel and start living in Australia under temporary residence while your permanent stage (100) is being processed.

For a partner visa 820, you apply while already in Australia. After submission, you usually get a bridging visa that lets you stay lawfully while waiting for the outcome. Later, if approved, you can move to the 801 permanent stage.

Cost of Partner Visa Applications

Both 309 and 820 visas cost around AUD 8,850. It covers both stages, but health, police, and translation cost extra.

Evidence Required for Both Visas.

For both 309 and 820 visas, the main thing is giving strong and real relationship proof.

You need to show your relationship is genuine and ongoing through:

• Joint financial records (bank accounts, bills, property).

• Show that rent papers or letters coming to the same home address as proof.

• Add photos, invites, and messages.

• Letters from family and friends.

Remember, it is not about how many photos you upload, but how complete your story looks when viewed by the Department.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes people make small errors that cause big delays or even refusals. A few examples include:

• Giving wrong details.

• Many people forget to update their address or contact details properly.

• Many people miss documents or upload unclear files.

• Giving unclear timelines of when the relationship started.

Even genuine couples face trouble if their paperwork looks messy. Double-check every document and make sure everything matches between both partners’ statements.

Which One Should You Choose – 309 or 820?

If you are outside Australia, go for the partner visa 309 because 820 can’t be applied for from overseas. If you are already in Australia, the 820 is right for you. It lets you stay while your visa is processed. Many couples choose based on where they want to wait because staying apart for months can be tough emotionally and practically.

Partner Visa 820 Processing Time

When it comes to Partner Visa 309 and Partner Visa 820 processing time, both usually take 12 to 24 months. Time depends on your file and department work. Sometimes, 820 takes longer if they ask for more papers. Just keep checking your email, reply fast if they ask something, and stay calm with your partner during the waiting time.

Relationship Between Partner Visa 309 and Permanent Stages

After the partner visa 309 is approved, you will later become eligible for the partner visa 100, which is the permanent residency stage.

Similarly, after the partner visa 820 is approved, you move toward the 801 permanent visa. The process and conditions are almost the same, only the location and sequence differ.

Tips to Make Your Application Stronger

Here are some small but useful points to help you make your partner visa 309 application more solid:

• Keep all evidence in order and well-labelled.

• Be honest and consistent in every form.

• Always upload clear documents.

• Respond quickly to any Department requests.

• Always tell your sponsor any updates.

  
  

Little things like these save a lot of time later and show your application is genuine and well-prepared.

Conclusion

that are Choosing between Partner Visa 309 and 820 mainly depends on where you are staying. If you are outside Australia and want to join your partner, go for the 309 visa. If you are already in Australia and don’t want to travel back, the 820 is better. Both lead to permanent residency and require genuine proof of your relationship. Processing time can change, so don’t worry if it takes longer. Stay patient, keep papers ready, and be honest. Both visas are to keep a loving couple together happily in Australia.

FAQs

1.    What is the main difference between a partner visa 309 and a partner visa 820?

309 is for outside Australia, 820 for inside. Both lead to PR; choose one that fits your situation best.

2.    How long does it take to get a partner visa 309?

Partner visa 309 takes 12–24 months. Time depends on the documents and department. Upload proofs properly and stay patient.

3.    Can I stay in Australia while waiting for a partner visa 309?

You can’t stay in Australia on a 309 visa. Apply from outside. If inside, go for 820 instead.

4.    What documents should I include for my partner visa 309?

Show your real relationship with joint bills, photos, travel proofs, and family letters. It’s about telling your love story.

5.    Is the partner visa 820 processing time shorter than the partner visa 309?

The 820 visa can take longer sometimes. It depends on your case. Keep info updated and give proof when asked.