Temporary Partner Visa (Australia)
What a temporary partner visa is, who’s eligible, key documents, how long it takes, a K1 vs CR1 note, and the 12-month relationship rule.
What is a temporary partner visa?
A temporary partner visa allows you to join your partner in Australia for a limited period while your permanent partner visa is assessed. Your sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. During this stage, you can live, work and study in Australia.
Applicants must meet eligibility criteria including evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship, plus health and character checks. Evidence may include joint financial commitments, cohabitation and social acknowledgment of the relationship.
Eligibility, documents and how to apply
You’ll typically need
- Valid passport and certified copies of identity documents.
- Relationship evidence (marriage certificate, shared finances, joint lease, photos, statements).
- Health and character clearances.
- Two recent passport photos.
Biometrics and document submission can be facilitated via VFS Global (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth). Always book ahead and allow for AU/IN public holidays.
Application steps
- 1Prepare a complete online application with strong relationship evidence.
- 2Pay the visa fee (from AUD 7,850) and upload all required documents.
- 3Complete health checks, police certificates and biometrics if requested.
Fees are payable by card/accepted methods per Home Affairs. Keep your TRN/receipts.
How long does it take for a temporary partner visa to be granted?
Typical processing is around 18–24 months, depending on case complexity, demand and whether your application is decision-ready. Public holidays in Australia/India can affect timeframes.
Key factors that affect timing
- Completeness: All documents supplied, correct photo/ID specs, robust proof of relationship.
- Centre/Jurisdiction: Workflows (including VFS appointments) may vary by city.
- Demand & workload: Volume at Home Affairs at the time you apply.
Steps to help avoid delays
- 1Lodge a complete application with fee (approx. AUD 7,850).
- 2Certify & translate (NAATI) any non-English documents.
- 3Monitor your email/IMMI account and respond promptly to requests.
Which is better, K1 or CR1 visa?
Understanding the differences
The K1 (fiancé(e)) and CR1 (spousal) are United States visa categories. They’re often compared because they suit different stages of a relationship. K1 is for couples who plan to marry soon after arrival; CR1 is for those already married and confers permanent residence on entry.
For Australia, approximate equivalents are: Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) and Partner visas — 309/100 (offshore) and 820/801 (onshore). Requirements, fees and timelines differ from the US process.
If you plan to marry after arrival
- US: K1 (marry within 90 days of entry).
- Australia: PMV 300 (marry after grant, then lodge partner stage).
If you are already married
- US: CR1 (spouse PR on entry).
- Australia: Partner 309/100 (offshore) or 820/801 (onshore).
Fees and forms vary by route; confirm current amounts and steps on the relevant official site before applying.
What is the 12 month relationship rule?
The 12-month relationship rule generally applies to de facto partner claims: you must demonstrate you’ve been in a genuine relationship for at least 12 months before applying (unless exempt, e.g., a registered relationship in some states/territories).
Evidence commonly used
- Joint bank statements showing shared finances.
- Lease/ownership documents with both names.
- Utility bills or official mail to the same address.
- Photos & communication showing relationship history.
Lodgement & fees
- Book at the relevant VFS Global centre (Canberra/Sydney/Melbourne/Perth) if biometrics needed.
- Processing often 10–15 business days for ancillary checks; visa decision takes longer.
- Fees vary; check the latest schedule. Pay in AUD (card/bank draft where applicable).
