Australian Partner Visa Checklist: The Complete Evidence Guide (Subclass 820, 309 & 300)

Applying for an Australian Partner Visa? Use this checklist to make sure you’ve got every document and detail covered for a smooth, successful application.

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Submitting a “Decision-Ready” application is the most effective way to minimize processing delays. This checklist outlines the mandatory legislative evidence required for the Onshore Partner Visa (820/801), Offshore Partner Visa (309/100), and the Prospective Marriage Visa (300).

The Department of Home Affairs assesses applications against the Migration Regulations 1994. Failure to provide specific legislative forms or correct document standards (e.g., NAATI translations) can lead to a refusal.

Table of Contents

Phase 1: The Administrative Forms (ImmiAccount)

Before uploading evidence, you must complete the correct digital forms within ImmiAccount.

Form 47SP: Application for migration to Australia by a partner. (Completed by the Visa Applicant).
Form 40SP: Sponsorship for a partner to migrate to Australia. (Completed by the Sponsor).
Form 80: Personal particulars for assessment including character assessment. (Mandatory for both Applicant and Sponsor).
Form 1221: Additional personal particulars information. (Often required for applicants from high-risk countries).

Phase 2: Identity & Character Documents

You must prove your identity and pass the Section 501 Character Test.

Valid Passports: Colour scans of the bio-data page for both Applicant and Sponsor.
Birth Certificates: Full certificates showing both parents’ names.
National Identity Card: Required if your country issues one (e.g., CNIC, Aadhaar, KTP).
AFP National Police Check: The Sponsor (and Applicant, if they have lived in Australia for 12+ months) must provide a check using Code 33 (Immigration/Citizenship).
Overseas Penal Clearance: Police certificates from every country where the Applicant has resided for 12 months or more (cumulatively) in the last 10 years.

Phase 3: The “4 Pillars” of Relationship Evidence

Under Regulation 1.09A (De Facto) and Regulation 1.15A (Spouse), you must prove four specific aspects of your relationship.

1. Financial Aspects

Joint Bank Statements: History showing active use (groceries, rent, bills) for at least 12 months.
Joint Liabilities: Mortgage documents, car loans, or lease agreements in both names.
Beneficiaries: Superannuation or Life Insurance policies naming the partner as the beneficiary.

2. Nature of Household

Correspondence: Utility bills (Gas, Electricity, Water) or Council Rates addressed to both parties at the same address.
Statement of Housework: A written declaration explaining the distribution of domestic duties (e.g., “Applicant cooks, Sponsor manages garden”).
Joint Responsibility for Children: Birth certificates of shared children or evidence of step-parenting.

3. Social Aspects

Form 888 (Statutory Declarations): At least two declarations from Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents who can attest to the genuineness of the relationship. Note: Witnesses must attach proof of their citizenship (Passport/Birth Certificate).
Joint Invitations: Wedding invites, gym memberships, or library cards showing you are accepted socially as a couple.
Social Proof: Photos of the couple with family and friends (capturing different dates/events).

4. Nature of Commitment

Relationship Statement: A detailed written history from both the Applicant and Sponsor covering:
- How and when you met.
- Development of the relationship.
- Financial and emotional support during separation.
- Future plans (e.g., purchasing a home, retirement).
Proof of Communication: If you have lived apart, provide WhatsApp/Skype logs showing continuous contact.

Phase 4: Specific Evidence for Prospective Marriage (Subclass 300)

If you are applying for the Fiancé Visa, you cannot yet prove a “Shared Household.” Instead, you must prove:

Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM): Lodged with an authorised Australian Celebrant.
Proof of First Meeting: Evidence you have met physically in person since turning 18 (Flight tickets, photos together).
Intent to Reside: A statement outlining where you intend to live in Australia after the marriage.

Phase 5: Document Standards (Strict Rules)

NAATI Translations: Any document not in English must be accompanied by a full translation from a NAATI-accredited translator.
Colour Scans: All documents must be high-quality colour scans of the original.
PDF Format: Avoid uploading image files (JPG/PNG). Convert multi-page documents (like bank statements) into a single PDF.

Avoid the “Generic” Trap

Uploading hundreds of photos does not compensate for a missing Form 888 or an incorrect AFP Code. The Department assesses evidence based on legislative weight, not quantity.

Unsure if your evidence is strong enough? One generic document can weaken your entire application. Our Registered Migration Agents can audit your checklist before you lodge.