Living apart from your partner can be emotionally challenging—especially when one of you is in Australia. Fortunately, the Partner Visa Subclass 100 offers a way for couples to reunite permanently in Australia. If you've already been granted the temporary Partner Visa Subclass 309, the next step toward permanent residency is applying for the Partner Visa 100.

This visa lets the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen live in Australia permanently. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: eligibility, the partner visa 100 document checklist, benefits, and how to ensure your application is successful.

What Is the Partner Visa Subclass 100?

The partner visa 100 is the second stage of a two-step visa process for people in committed relationships with an Australian partner. After holding the temporary Partner Visa Subclass 309 and living together in a genuine relationship, you may be eligible for the Partner Visa Subclass 100, which allows you to settle in Australia permanently.

Who Can Apply for the Partner Visa 100?

To be eligible for the Partner Visa Subclass 100, you must:

  • Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner

  • Hold a temporary Partner Visa Subclass 309

  • Continue to meet all legal requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs

  • Provide updated evidence of your relationship to show it’s still real and stable

Whether you're married or in a de facto relationship, the government needs solid proof that your relationship continues to be committed and long-lasting.

Key Benefits of the Australian Partner Visa Subclass 100

Holding a Partner Visa 100 gives you more than just permanent residency. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Live in Australia permanently

  • Work and study without restrictions

  • Access to Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare)

  • Opportunity to apply for citizenship once eligible

  • Sponsor eligible family members to join you in Australia

This visa is your gateway to building a future with your partner in one of the world’s most stable and welcoming countries.

Partner Visa 100 Document Checklist

Getting your documents right is crucial. Here's a detailed partner visa 100 document checklist to guide you:

1. Personal Identity Documents

  • Current passport (scanned copy of biodata page)

  • Birth certificate

  • National ID card (if available)

2. Proof of Relationship

You need to prove that your relationship is genuine, ongoing, and exclusive:

  • Joint bank account statements

  • Lease agreements or joint home ownership

  • Utility bills showing shared address

  • Social media evidence, wedding photos, invitations

  • Travel tickets, hotel bookings during vacations together

  • Letters, emails, or chats over the years

3. Statements and Forms

  • Personal written statement from both you and your partner about your relationship history

  • Form 888: Statutory declarations by friends/family supporting your relationship

  • Any joint insurance or wills naming each other as beneficiary

4. Character and Health

  • Updated police clearance certificates from any country you’ve lived in for more than 12 months

  • Health checks through authorized panel physicians (if requested)

  • Form 80 or Form 1221 if asked by the immigration department

5. Sponsor Documents

  • Australian passport or citizenship certificate

  • Proof of employment or financial stability

  • Police clearance (in some cases)

All non-English documents must be translated into English by a certified translator.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Partner Visa 100?

Processing time can vary, but most applications are decided within:

  • 75% of cases: 16–20 months

  • 90% of cases: 22–26 months

However, if you've been in a long-term relationship or have children together, the permanent visa may be granted sooner, sometimes even at the same time as the 309 visa.

How to Strengthen Your Partner Visa 100 Application

To avoid delays or refusals, here are some tips for a stronger application:

  • Submit fresh and updated evidence of your relationship

  • Ensure your information is consistent with your previous 309 visa application

  • Double-check your partner visa 100 document checklist before submission

  • Write a clear, honest relationship statement that reflects both of your experiences

  • Respond quickly if the immigration officer requests additional information

It’s important to show how your relationship has evolved since the 309 visa was granted.

What If Your Relationship Breaks Down?

Life can be unpredictable, and if your relationship ends before the Partner Visa 100 is granted, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs. You may still be eligible to stay in Australia under limited circumstances, such as:

  • If you were the victim of family violence

  • If you have children with the sponsor

  • If your partner has passed away

Every situation is different, and you may want to speak with a migration agent to understand your options.

Do You Need a Migration Agent for Subclass 100?

While it's not mandatory to hire a migration agent, it can be extremely helpful—especially if your case is complex or you're unsure about the paperwork.

A registered agent can:

  • Guide you through the document preparation process

  • Review your relationship evidence

  • Help respond to case officer requests

  • Reduce the risk of errors that can delay your visa outcome

Final Thoughts

If you’ve already been granted the Partner Visa Subclass 309, and your relationship is still genuine and ongoing, then the Partner Visa 100 is the natural next step.

It’s your pathway to:

  • Permanent residency in Australia

  • A stable future with your partner

  • The possibility of Australian citizenship down the line

Make sure you’re organized, transparent, and thorough with your documents. And if you're feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek help from a registered migration agent who knows how to handle the Australian partner visa subclass 100 process inside and out.