Are you thinking of bringing your partner to Australia? Congratulations! It’s a big step, and you’re in for a lot of paperwork and fees. Partner visa fees in Australia can be high, but don’t let that discourage you. Let’s discuss the two main types of partner visas available in Australia:
- Partner visa (subclass 820/801): This visa is for partners (including same-sex partners) of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who are already in Australia. The subclass 820 visa is a temporary visa that allows the applicant to stay in Australia while their permanent subclass 801 visa is processed.
- Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300): This visa is for couples who are engaged and intend to get married within nine months of the visa grant. The subclass 300 visa is a temporary visa that allows the applicant to stay in Australia while they get married and apply for a partner visa (subclass 820/801).
Let’s now take a closer look at the current Australian partner visa fees in Australia in this article.
Current Partner Visa Fees
Below is a table that sets out partner visa fees as of July 13, 2022 according to the Department of Home Affairs:
Visa Subclass | Base Application Charge | Non-Internet Application Charge | Additional Applicant Charge (18 and over) | Additional Application Charge (Under 18) |
Partner visa (subclass 820/801) | AUD 8,085 | N/A | AUD 4,045 | AUD 2,025 |
Partner visa (subclass 820/801) application by Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300) visa holder | AUD 1,350 | N/A | AUD 675 | AUD 335 |
1. Partner visa (subclass 820/801) application by former Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300) visa holder or the equivalent which existed under the 1989 or 1993 Migration Regulations; and 2. A person who: – Entered Australia before 19 December 1989 – Was engaged to an Australian citizen or permanent resident at that time and subsequently married that person. | AUD 1,710 | N/A | AUD 855 | AUD 430 |
Partner visa (subclass 820/801) application by a spouse with transitional Extended Eligibility Temporary Visa (EETV) | AUD 485 | N/A | AUD 240 | AUD 125 |

Processing Time and Other Fees
Aside from the visa application fee, it’s essential to note that the partner visa application process can be lengthy and complex. The processing time for a partner visa (subclass 820/801) can take up to 25-30 months. On the other hand, the processing time for a prospective marriage visa (subclass 300) can take up to 16-22 months. These processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances.
The partner visa application process involves several stages, including lodging an application, providing documentation, and attending an interview. It’s vital to provide accurate and comprehensive information throughout the application process to avoid delays or the visa being refused.
In conclusion, partner visa fees can be a costly and lengthy process. In addition to the application charge, there are also other fees and charges associated with the partner visa application process. These include:
- Health assessments: The cost of health assessments varies depending on the applicant’s country of origin and individual circumstances. These assessments are mandatory for all applicants and their dependent family members.
- Police certificates: Partner visa applicants are required to provide police certificates from all countries where they have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. The cost of obtaining police certificates varies depending on the country.
- Translation services: If any of the required documents are not in English, they must be translated by a certified translator. The cost of translation services varies depending on the length and complexity of the documents.
Partner Visa Fees: Helpful Tips
Here are some tips on how to approach partner visa fees in Australia and ensure that costs are met properly:
1. Research and Plan Ahead
Before beginning the application process for a partner visa in Australia, it is essential to conduct thorough research and gain a clear understanding of the fees and charges involved. This includes the base application charge, additional applicant charges, and any other fees such as sponsorship fees, health assessments, police certificates, and translation services.
2. Seek Professional Advice
The partner visa application process in Australia can be complex and time-consuming, and applicants may benefit from seeking the advice of a professional immigration lawyer. These professionals can provide valuable insights into:
- The application process
- Legal matters that may arise during the process, and
- Meeting all necessary requirements and deadlines.
- Representing you in the appropriate administrative appeals tribunal
Unlike a registered migration agent, lawyers have the knowledge of legal procedures and cases that may arise during the process. This way, they can help you avoid costly court procedures and potential visa cancellations.
3. Consider Payment Options
Applicants may choose to pay the partner visa fees in Australia using a range of payment options. This may include credit or debit cards, bank transfers, or money orders. It is important to check the payment options available and ensure that the chosen method is accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
4. Allow For Additional Costs
In addition to the partner visa fees in Australia, applicants should also consider any additional costs that may arise during the application process, such as travel expenses, accommodation, and legal fees. By factoring in these costs, applicants can ensure that they have the necessary funds to complete the application process without any financial complications.
5. Monitor Processing Times
Processing times for partner visa applications in Australia can vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant. It is important to monitor the processing times and allow plenty of time for the application process to avoid any potential delays or complications.

Importance of Seeking Legal Advice
Both immigration lawyers and migration agents can provide valuable assistance to applicants navigating the partner visa application process in Australia. However, immigration lawyers have the training, experience, and qualifications necessary to provide expert legal advice and advocacy.
Are you considering applying for a partner visa and are in need of legal assistance? JB Solicitors has experienced immigration lawyers who can provide you with the guidance and representation you need. We have a track record of success in assisting clients with partner visa applications and other immigration matters.
Contact us today so we can have your partner visa application prepared in a timely and professional manner.