Partner visa processing times cause stress for couples waiting for a decision. The Department publishes estimated processing times, but individual cases can take significantly longer.
Current estimates
The Department publishes time ranges showing when 75% and 90% of applications are finalised. Check the Department's website at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for current figures.
As a general indication: Subclass 820 (onshore temporary) has ranged from about 5 to 28 months. Subclass 801 (onshore permanent) is typically processed about two years after the 820 application. Subclass 309 (offshore temporary) has ranged from about 7 to 31 months. Subclass 100 (offshore permanent) is about two years after the 309.
These are estimates, not guarantees.
What makes your application take longer
Incomplete application at lodgement. The Department has to request missing documents and your application goes to the back of the queue. Poorly organised relationship evidence. Additional checks required (police checks from countries you have lived in). Department requests for further information. Case complexity (de facto relationships, Schedule 3 issues, previous visa history).
What you can do while waiting
If you lodged onshore (820), you generally have a bridging visa with work and travel rights. Keep your documents up to date. Notify the Department of changes through ImmiAccount. Continue gathering evidence of your relationship for the permanent stage.
Worried about your processing time?
If your application has been pending significantly longer than the published estimates, or if your circumstances have changed during processing, contact us. We can advise on whether to provide additional information and how to respond to any requests from the Department.
How a well-prepared application avoids delays
A complete, well-organised application lodged with strong evidence across all four relationship areas gives you the best chance of avoiding delays. That is where we add the most value, at the preparation stage.
How Robbie Toor (MARN 1170356) helps
Robbie assists with partner visa applications from preparation through to grant. If your application is already lodged and you are waiting, he can advise on whether additional information would help or hurt.