When love crosses borders, the Australian Partner Visa becomes a vital pathway for couples to build a life together in Australia. This visa is essential for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who wish to live together in Australia. However, understanding the two main pathways—Onshore and Offshore applications—is crucial in choosing the right visa for your situation.

In this blog post, we’ll explore these two visa types, their key differences, and how to determine which one best suit your needs.

What Is an Onshore Partner Visa?

The Onshore Partner Visa, comprised of subclass 820 (temporary) and subclass 801 (permanent), allows applicants already in Australia to apply for residency while remaining in the country.

The Onshore Partner Visa is ideal for couples who are already in Australia on a temporary visa. It’s a practical choice for those who want to stay together in Australia throughout the visa application process.

Key Features

• Application Flexibility: You can apply while holding a valid visa in Australia.
• Bridging Visa: Once your application is submitted, a Bridging Visa is granted, allowing you to stay in Australia lawfully while your Partner Visa is processed.
• Work and Study Rights: The bridging visa typically permits work and study during the application process.

What Is an Offshore Partner Visa?

The Offshore Partner Visa, encompassing subclass 309 (temporary) and subclass 100 (permanent), requires applicants to lodge their applications while outside Australia. This visa is designed for couples where one partner resides overseas. It suits those who can manage temporary separation during the processing period.

Key Features

• Offshore Requirement: The applicant must remain outside Australia throughout the application and decision process.
• Travel to Australia: The applicant can only travel to Australia after the visa is granted.

Key Differences Between Onshore and Offshore Partner Visas

Aspect	Onshore Partner Visa	Offshore Partner Visa
Location at Application	Applicant must be in Australia.	Applicant must be outside Australia.
Processing Times	Generally faster, depending on individual circumstances.	May take longer due to additional requirements.
Bridging Visa	Bridging Visa granted, allowing the applicant to stay in Australia.	No bridging visa; applicant must wait offshore.
Work and Study Rights	Granted during the application process with the Bridging Visa.	Not applicable until the visa is approved.
Travel to Australia	Applicant remains in Australia during processing.	Applicant can only travel to Australia after visa approval.
Application Costs	Similar costs, with minor administrative variations.	Similar costs, with minor administrative variations.
Flexibility	Greater flexibility for couples wishing to stay together in Australia.	Less flexibility; requires managing temporary separation.

Choosing the Right Visa for Your Situation

Choosing the right Partner Visa depends on your unique circumstances, particularly your current location and priorities. If you are already in Australia and wish to remain with your partner during the application process, the Onshore Partner Visa offers a seamless solution. Its Bridging Visa ensures that you can stay legally, often with work and study rights, while your application is processed. This pathway is ideal for couples who prioritize staying together and minimizing disruption to their daily lives.

On the other hand, the Offshore Partner Visa is suited for applicants currently outside Australia. While it requires remaining offshore until the visa is granted, it can be a practical option for couples who can manage temporary separation during the process. This pathway is especially useful when one partner resides overseas or if relocation timelines align better with the visa grant. Regardless of the pathway, consulting an experienced migration expert is invaluable to navigate the complexities, avoid errors, and expedite your journey to reunite with your loved one.

Consulting an Expert

Navigating the complexities of Partner Visa applications can be daunting. An experienced migration consultant can provide personalized advice, ensuring your application is accurate and avoiding costly mistakes.

Understanding the differences between the Onshore and Offshore Partner Visas is essential for couples looking to reunite or stay together in Australia. The Onshore visa is ideal for applicants already in the country, while the Offshore visa suits those residing overseas.