Nexus Guide to Partner Visa 309: Processing, Checklist & Tips

If you are in a real relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and want to live together in Australia, partner visa subclass 309 may be your route. This visa allows the permanent partner visa subclass 100 to temporarily enter the country and to live in the country to enter the country.

In Nexus Immigration Services, we understand how important it is to be with your loved ones. Our experts help navigate this complex process with easily and clarity to our experts. In this guide, we will break whatever you need to know about partner visa 309 including checklist, processing time and practical tips for a successful application.

What Is the Partner Visa Subclass 309?

The Partner Visa Subclass 309 is a temporary visa that lets you stay in Australia while your permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100) is processed. It’s specifically designed for applicants who are outside Australia at the time of applying.

Once granted, the visa holder can:

Live, work, and study in Australia.

Travel in and out of Australia freely.

Access free English language classes (if eligible).

Access Medicare.

Eventually, the 309 visa leads to the Subclass 100 permanent partner visa, provided your relationship continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

Partner Visa 309 Checklist: Documents You Need

Applying for a Partner Visa 309 can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to documentation. Here’s a detailed checklist to help you get organised:

1. Identity & Relationship Documents

Valid passport (and certified copies).

Birth certificates.

Marriage certificate (if married).

Divorce or death certificate (if previously married).

Photos together, travel records, joint lease/rent agreements.

Social media screenshots, chat logs (optional but helpful).

2. Relationship Evidence (4 Key Aspects)

To prove a genuine and ongoing relationship, you must provide evidence in these areas:

a. Financial Commitment

Joint bank accounts or shared financial obligations.

Bills with both names.

Loan or mortgage documents.

b. Nature of the Household

Utility bills with shared addresses.

Mail received at the same address.

Statements showing living arrangements.

c. Social Recognition

Photos with friends and family.

Invitations to events.

Statutory declarations from friends and family (Form 888).

d. Commitment to Each Other

Joint travel history.

Long-term plans (emails, calls, letters).

Joint insurance, wills, or superannuation.

3. Sponsor Documents

Passport and identity documents of the Australian sponsor.

Proof of citizenship/permanent residency/eligible NZ citizenship.

Sponsor’s Form 40SP.

Character documents, if requested.

4. Character & Health Requirements

Police clearance certificates from every country lived in for 12+ months.

Health checkups (must be done by an approved panel physician).

Partner Visa 309 Processing Time (2025 Update)

The processing time for the Partner Visa 309 varies depending on the strength of the application and volume of applications. As of 2025:

75% of applications are processed within 14 months.

90% of applications are processed within 19–21 months.

Key Factors Affecting Processing Time:

Completeness and accuracy of documents.

Response time to Department of Home Affairs requests.

Verification of relationship documents.

Whether health and character checks are provided early.

At Nexus, we’ve helped reduce delays for many clients by ensuring applications are fully prepared and professionally reviewed before submission.

Eligibility Requirements for Partner Visa 309

To qualify for this visa, you must meet the following:

For the Applicant:

Be outside Australia when you apply.

Be in a genuine, continuing relationship with the sponsor.

Meet health and character requirements.

For the Sponsor:

Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Must be willing to sponsor the applicant for 2 years.

Not barred from sponsorship due to prior issues (like past visa breaches or sponsorship limits).

Tips from Nexus for a Strong 309 Visa Application

At Nexus Immigration Services, we often see applicants make avoidable mistakes that delay their partner visa approval. Here are a few practical tips:

Start Collecting Evidence Early

The more consistent your evidence, the stronger your case will be. Start from the early days of your relationship.

Be Honest in Your Application

Any discrepancies in dates, details, or documents can trigger investigation or rejection.

Use Statutory Declarations Wisely

Ask friends and family to complete Form 888. Make sure their statements match your timeline.

Double-Check Translations

Any document not in English must be professionally translated. Avoid online tools.

Hire a Registered Migration Agent

An expert like those at Nexus can simplify your journey, avoid delays, and provide support at every step.

Why Choose Nexus Immigration Services?

Choosing the right migration agent makes all the difference. At Nexus, we:

Have MARA-registered experts with deep knowledge of partner visas.

Offer personalised support tailored to your case.

Help you prepare a bulletproof application with proper documentation.

Communicate with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.

We’ve proudly helped hundreds of couples reunite and begin their lives together in Australia—and we can help you too.

Final Thoughts

Applying for the Partner Visa Subclass 309 can feel complicated, but with the right guidance, it becomes a smooth and achievable journey. Make sure you gather solid evidence, follow the checklist, and submit a complete application.

And if you ever feel unsure or overwhelmed, remember—Nexus Immigration Services is here to help you every step of the way. Your future in Australia with your partner starts with one confident step forward.