Get Clear Answers to Your Subclass 309 Application Questions

The Subclass 309 visa allows individuals who are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to enter Australia. This is the first stage of the Partner Visa (Subclass 820), for offshore applicants who are outside of Australia at the time of application. 

To be eligible for the Subclass 309 visa, you must: 

• Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your sponsor (an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen). 

• Be outside Australia when applying for the visa. 

• Meet health and character requirements. 

• Provide evidence of the relationship (photos, joint finances, etc.). 

No, a job offer is not required for Subclass 309. This visa is based on your relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. 

To apply for Subclass 309, you must lodge your application online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount. You will need to submit supporting documents like relationship evidence, identity documents, and police clearances. 

You will need to submit the following documents: 

• Proof of your relationship (photos, joint activities, correspondence). 

• Identity documents (passport, birth certificate). 

• Police clearances from any countries where you’ve lived for more than 12 months in the last 10 years. 

• Health examination results. 

• Proof of your sponsor’s Australian citizenship or permanent residency. 

The processing time for Subclass 309 varies, but on average, it takes 12 to 18 months. Processing times may vary depending on application volume, case complexity, and other factors. 

Yes, you can include your children under the age of 18 in your application. They must meet the eligibility criteria and be added to the visa application when submitting it. 

Yes, you must meet health and character requirements, which involves undergoing a medical examination and providing police clearance certificates from countries where you’ve lived for more than 12 months in the past 10 years. 

The Subclass 309 visa does not have a points requirement, as it is a relationship-based visa rather than a points-tested one. 

After submitting your application, the Department of Home Affairs will review it. You may be asked for additional information or documents. Once your application is processed and approved, you will be granted the Subclass 309 visa and allowed to enter Australia.