Partner Visa Australia 2026: Total Cost Breakdown (820/801 and 309/100)
A partner visa is one of the most common visa pathways for people in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The process is lengthy — typically 18 to 36 months — and the costs add up quickly. This guide provides a complete breakdown of every cost involved, so you can plan your finances before lodging.
Two pathways: onshore and offshore
There are two main partner visa streams:
Onshore (subclass 820 → 801): For applicants already in Australia on a valid visa. You lodge a single application that covers both the temporary (820) and permanent (801) stages. You can live and work in Australia while the application is being assessed.
Offshore (subclass 309 → 100): For applicants outside Australia, or those who choose to apply from outside. The 309 is a provisional visa; if approved you can travel to and live in Australia. After two years the permanent 100 visa is granted (subject to the relationship continuing).
In both cases, the application fee paid at lodgement covers both stages — you do not pay a second fee when moving from temporary to permanent.
Government application fees (2025–26)
The base application charge for a partner visa (820/801 or 309/100) is $8,865 per primary applicant. This is one of the most expensive visa application fees in the Australian immigration system.
Additional applicant charges:
- Secondary applicant aged 18 or over: $4,435
- Child under 18 included in application: $2,220
These charges are payable at the time of lodgement and are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Medical examination
All applicants must undergo a medical examination conducted by an approved panel physician (such as BUPA Medical Visa Services or other registered providers).
Typical costs:
- Medical examination (chest X-ray + general health): $300–$400 per adult
- Children's examination: $150–$250
Costs vary by city and provider. In capital cities, allow $350–$400 per adult. If follow-up tests are required (e.g., for tuberculosis or other identified conditions), additional costs may apply.
Police clearance certificates
The applicant must provide police clearances from every country they have lived in for 12 months or more since turning 16.
- Australian Federal Police (AFP) check: ~$45 online. Results are typically returned within 15 business days.
- Overseas country checks: Costs vary by country, typically $50–$100 AUD equivalent per country. Some countries require in-person applications at police stations or dedicated government offices.
If you have lived in multiple countries (which is common for applicants born overseas), budget $150–$300 for police clearances in total.
Biometrics
Depending on your country of citizenship and current location, you may be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a facial image). The fee for biometric collection is typically $55–$90 AUD equivalent, paid at an authorised collection centre (often a VFS Global or IOM office) in your country of residence.
Australian residents may not need to provide biometrics separately if already captured during a prior visa application.
Migration agent fees
You are not required to use a Registered Migration Agent (RMA) to lodge a partner visa, but many applicants choose professional assistance given the complexity of evidence requirements.
Typical fee ranges:
- Full-service representation (document review, form preparation, lodgement, liaison): $2,000–$5,000
- Consultation only (you lodge yourself): $300–$600 per hour
Choosing an experienced RMA reduces the risk of requests for further information or refusal due to inadequate evidence — a far more expensive outcome.
Total estimated cost summary
| Item | DIY estimate | With migration agent |
|---|---|---|
| Government application fee (primary applicant) | $8,865 | $8,865 |
| Medical examination (2 adults) | $700–$800 | $700–$800 |
| Police clearances (Australia + 1 overseas) | $100–$150 | $100–$150 |
| Biometrics | $55–$90 | $55–$90 |
| Migration agent fees | — | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Miscellaneous (translations, certified copies, postage) | $200–$400 | $200–$400 |
| Total | $9,900–$10,300 | $12,400–$15,300 |
Note: The above excludes any additional applicant charges for children, repeat medical exams, or specialist health assessments.
A note on the sponsorship assessment
The Australian partner (sponsor) also undergoes assessment. The sponsor must have no relevant criminal history, particularly relating to family violence or child abuse. There is no formal income test for the sponsor, but immigration officers may consider financial capacity when assessing whether the relationship is genuine and that the applicant will not be a burden on public resources.
Calculate your costs
Use our partner visa cost calculator to estimate the full cost based on your individual circumstances, including the number of applicants and countries of residence.