Subclass 100 / Permanent stage
Partner (Migrant) visa (subclass 100) A longer view of your future together.
The permanent stage is a chance to bring your application up to date. We help you understand when the 100 can be considered and how to show the life you have continued to build.
- Visa stage
- Permanent
- Usual earlier stage
- Subclass 309
- Assessment timing
- Usually 2 years from application
What this pathway offers
Your shared plans. A longer horizon.
The 100 is the permanent stage of the offshore partner pathway. It follows the combined 309 and 100 application and needs a separate assessment and decision.
Permanent residence
If granted, you can live, work and study in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident.
Keep planning together
A clear understanding of your status helps you make informed choices about home, work and family.
Plan travel carefully
The permanent visa has a travel facility. Check it before arranging future travel, particularly after the initial five-year period.
The requirements in context
What needs to line up.
We review the original application alongside the evidence and circumstances relevant to the permanent stage. The main checks include:
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The earlier visa stage
The 100 is usually granted to people who hold the 309. Relevant dependent-child circumstances also need to be checked against the current criteria.
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When you become eligible
Usually, two years must have passed since the combined 309 and 100 application. Earlier assessment can be available in specified circumstances, including some long-term relationships.
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The relationship now
In most cases, your genuine relationship with the same sponsoring partner must continue. If it has changed, the applicable exceptions need careful assessment.
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The information to update
Prepare current relationship, identity and family details, and health or character material where required. Tell Home Affairs about relevant changes.
Count from the application. Prepare for the assessment.
The usual two-year eligibility point runs from the combined application date, rather than from the day the 309 was granted or the day you arrived in Australia.
Reaching that point does not grant permanent residence automatically. Follow the current Stage 2 instructions and provide your updated evidence when eligible.
A plan you can follow
From your story to the next step.
The permanent-stage update should connect the original evidence with your current life. We help you focus on the material that explains that progression.
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Confirm the assessment timing
Check the original application record, current visa and any circumstances that may affect when your case can be considered.
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Explain what has changed
Review work, home, family, finances and periods apart since the earlier stage, with evidence that makes those changes clear.
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Provide the Stage 2 update
Complete the permanent partner assessment process in ImmiAccount when eligible and supply the required supporting information.
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Follow the decision process
Respond to requests and keep your details current. If granted, review your permanent status and the travel facility on the grant notice.
Preparation that makes sense
The evidence. With context.
Your checklist should reflect your circumstances and this stage of the process. Depending on your situation, it may include:
- Current passport, 309 grant and original application details.
- Updated relationship statements and your sponsor's required declaration.
- Recent records explaining shared finances, household arrangements, social recognition and commitment.
- Details of children and changes to addresses, passports or other circumstances.
- Police certificates and any other checks requested for this stage.
A little more clarity
Your 100 questions, made clearer.
Start with the essentials, then look at how the requirements apply to your circumstances.
Is the 100 granted automatically after the 309?
No. The permanent stage has its own requirements and decision. You need to provide the current information required for assessment.
Is the permanent-stage visa charge already paid?
The main permanent-stage charge was included when you applied for the 309 and 100 together. Other costs can still arise, including checks, translations and professional assistance.
Can the permanent stage be considered earlier?
Home Affairs identifies specified circumstances for earlier consideration, including some long-term relationships and certain humanitarian sponsorship circumstances. The exact facts and criteria need to be reviewed.
What if my relationship has ended?
Some circumstances can allow the application to continue after a relationship ends. These include family violence, a sponsor's death or relevant circumstances involving a child. Get advice and notify Home Affairs before withdrawing anything.
How long will it take and what will it cost?
Use the Home Affairs processing guide and current fee information for the relevant visa. Published processing times are guides, not a decision date for your case. We explain our professional fees and scope separately before you proceed.
Your next step starts with you
Make your next stage clearer.
Tell us your application date and what has changed since the 309 stage. We will help you understand what to prepare for the permanent assessment.