Australian Partner Visa Processing Times 2026

One of the first questions couples ask when considering an Australian Partner Visa is simple but critical:

“How long will it take?”

With Partner Visa application charges now exceeding AUD $9,000, extended processing times can have serious financial, emotional, and practical consequences. Understanding current processing trends — and how to avoid unnecessary delays — is essential.

This guide explains Australian Partner Visa processing times in 2026, why applications may take some time, and what couples can do to streamline their processing.

Current Australian partner visa processing times

The Department of Home Affairs publishes historical processing data showing how long recently decided applications took to finalise. These figures are not guarantees, but they provide the most reliable benchmark available.

Onshore Partner Visas (applied in Australia)

Subclass 820 – Temporary Partner Visa

Approximately 50% of applications are decided within 16 months
Approximately 90% of applications are decided within 24 months

Subclass 801 – Permanent Partner Visa

Approximately 50% of applications are decided within 8 months
Approximately 90% of applications are decided within 26 months

Offshore Partner Visas (applied outside Australia)

Subclass 309 – Temporary Partner Visa

Approximately 50% of applications are decided within 14 months
Approximately 90% of applications are decided within 24–26 months

Subclass 100 – Permanent Partner Visa

Approximately 50% of applications are decided within 10 months
Approximately 90% of applications are decided within 21 months

Practical reality:
Most couples should plan for a 12–24 month timeframe for the temporary stage, with the permanent stage assessed later unless eligible for early grant.

Learn more about Partner Visa subclasses

Why partner visa processing times are lengthy

Partner visas are among the most closely examined visas in the Australian migration program and processing times are influenced by:

Application volumes and legacy backlogs

The two‑stage visa framework (temporary then permanent)

Detailed assessment of relationship evidence

Health, character, and external agency checks

Government priority levels and ministerial directions

Importantly, the Department has advised that they are continuing to focus on clearing older and more complex cases, which affects overall processing times for new applications.

What can cause delays in Partner Visa Applications

While no migration lawyer can “fast‑track” a partner visa, lengthy delays can be avoidable with the right preparation and representation.

1. Incomplete or poorly structured applications

Missing police checks, medicals, or poorly organised evidence often result in requests for further information under sections 56 of the Migration Act. Each request pauses assessment and can add months to processing time.

2. Weak/low levels of relationship evidence

The Department assesses relationships across four mandatory pillars:

Financial aspects
Nature of the household
Social recognition
Commitment to each other

If even one pillar is weak or unsupported, the application may be delayed or refused.

3. Inconsistencies across documents

Small discrepancies in dates, addresses, or relationship timelines can undermine credibility and trigger deeper scrutiny, including potential consideration of Public Interest Criterion 4020.

Onshore vs offshore partner visas: is one faster?

A common misconception is that applying onshore automatically leads to faster processing. In practice, processing times often overlap.

Well prepared offshore applications are frequently decided within similar timeframes to onshore cases, while onshore applications may take longer due to higher volumes.

Choosing the right pathway depends on:

Lawful location at time of application
Bridging visa needs
Work and Medicare access
Relationship history and supporting evidence

Can partner visa processing be fast tracked?

There is generally no priority processing for Partner Visas unless you can demonstrate compelling and compassionate circumstances. Everyone wants their application processed as quickly as possible.

We notice when applications are decision‑ready at lodgement consistently experience fewer requests for more information and streamlined processing. This includes:

Front‑loaded health and police checks
Clear, chronological relationship statements
Structured and well‑labelled evidence
Correct forms and sponsor eligibility

Incomplete applications almost always take longer and carry higher refusal risk.

If you do have compelling and compassioante circumstances, the Department may give priority consideration to a partner visa application where compelling and compassionate circumstances can be demonstrated.

However, priority processing is not guaranteed, as other applicants may present circumstances that are equally or more compelling.

Priority consideration will only be assessed once all required information has been lodged. All applications must fully satisfy the relevant legislative criteria before a visa can be granted

Final thoughts

Partner Visa processing times in 2026 remain lengthy, but clear expectations and careful preparation significantly reduce risk.

A well‑prepared application cannot shorten processing times but it can:

Prevent avoidable delays
Reduce refusal risk
Provide peace of mind during a long process

Given the cost, complexity, and emotional impact of Partner Visa applications, early strategic advice and representation can make a substantial difference.

If you would like assistance or advice with your partner visa, contact our office today.