Breaking Down the Cost of a Partner Visa
Applying for an Australian Partner Visa is a significant commitment, both emotionally and financially. The process can be complex, requiring extensive documentation, legal declarations, and, most importantly, a substantial financial investment. Many applicants are often surprised by the high cost of a partner visa, especially when additional expenses such as medical checks, police clearances, and translation services are factored in.
Understanding the full breakdown of costs before starting the application process is crucial. A well-prepared application not only saves time but also reduces the chances of rejection, which could lead to lost fees and costly reapplications. In 2025, the Australian Government has maintained its high visa fees, making it essential for applicants to plan their finances accordingly.
Application Fees for Subclass 820/801 and 309/100
The primary expense in a Partner Visa application is the government lodgement fee, which remains one of the most expensive visa fees in Australia. As of 2025, the cost of applying for a Subclass 820/801 (Onshore Partner Visa) or Subclass 309/100 (Offshore Partner Visa) stands at AUD 8,850 for the main applicant. This amount is payable upfront at the time of lodgement and is non-refundable, even if the visa is ultimately refused.
For applicants who have dependent children included in the application, the fees increase. A child under 18 years old incurs an additional AUD 2,215 per applicant, while a dependent over 18 years attracts a fee of AUD 4,425. These costs can quickly add up, especially for families applying together.
Applying from inside Australia (onshore) or from overseas (offshore) does not significantly affect the cost of the visa, as both pathways have similar fee structures. However, certain applicants who held specific visas (such as tourist visas with “no further stay” conditions) may need to apply offshore, potentially adding travel and accommodation expenses to the overall cost.
Additional Costs: Health Checks, Police Clearance & Translations
In addition to the government application fee, applicants must budget for a variety of other mandatory expenses, which can sometimes be overlooked. These costs vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin, medical history, and personal circumstances.
A key requirement for all partner visa applicants is a comprehensive medical examination. This includes a full-body health assessment, blood tests, and chest X-rays to ensure the applicant meets Australia’s health requirements. The cost of these medical checks typically ranges between AUD 350 and AUD 600, depending on the applicant’s location and chosen medical facility.
Another essential requirement is obtaining police clearance certificates from every country where the applicant has lived for more than 12 months in the past 10 years. Australian Federal Police (AFP) clearances cost approximately AUD 42, while international police checks can cost anywhere from AUD 100 to AUD 300, depending on the country. Some nations also require fingerprint submissions, which may involve additional fees.
For applicants who submit documents in languages other than English, certified translations are mandatory. The cost of translating essential documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police clearances can range from AUD 30 to AUD 100 per document, depending on the complexity and language. Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds should budget accordingly, as failure to provide certified translations can lead to delays or rejection of the application.
Can You Get a Refund for a Partner Visa Fee?
One of the biggest concerns among applicants is whether the AUD 8,850 visa application fee is refundable in case of visa refusal. Unfortunately, the Australian Government does not offer refunds if a visa is rejected due to insufficient evidence, ineligibility, or failure to meet health and character requirements. This makes thorough preparation crucial before applying.
However, there are a few exceptions where a refund may be possible. In cases where the sponsoring Australian partner passes away before the visa is granted, or if the Department of Home Affairs has made an error in processing, a partial or full refund may be considered. Applicants should keep in mind that these cases are rare and require strong supporting documentation.
For those who withdraw their application voluntarily, the chances of receiving a refund are extremely low. Unless the withdrawal is due to circumstances beyond the applicant’s control, the Australian Government is unlikely to return any portion of the fees paid.
Payment Plans & Financial Assistance Options
Given the high cost of the Partner Visa, many applicants explore payment plan options to ease the financial burden. The Department of Home Affairs requires full payment at the time of application, meaning there is no official installment plan offered by the government.
However, some migration agencies and legal consultants provide third-party payment plans, allowing applicants to pay their service fees in installments. Additionally, some credit card companies offer interest-free installment options for large payments, which may help applicants spread out the cost over several months.
For couples facing financial difficulties, community organizations and financial counseling services may provide advice on managing visa-related expenses. Some banks and credit providers offer personal loans to cover visa costs, but applicants should carefully consider interest rates and repayment terms before taking on debt.
Is the Australian Partner Visa Worth the Cost?
The high cost of an Australian Partner Visa often leads applicants to question whether it is worth the financial investment. While AUD 8,850 plus additional costs is undeniably expensive, obtaining a permanent residency (PR) in Australia comes with long-term benefits that outweigh the initial expense.
Once granted, a Partner Visa provides full work rights, access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system), and a pathway to citizenship. Partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents can live and work in Australia indefinitely, enjoy the same legal protections as citizens, and eventually apply for Australian citizenship.
The alternative—relying on temporary visas or sponsorship renewals—can be far more expensive in the long run. Many couples who delay applying for a Partner Visa end up spending more money on temporary visa renewals, additional migration advice, and medical checks. By applying early and submitting a strong application, couples can secure their future in Australia without unnecessary delays or additional costs.
For those who qualify for permanent residency through other visa pathways, such as employer-sponsored or skilled migration programs, it is worth comparing the total costs and benefits before deciding whether the Partner Visa is the best option.
Final Thoughts on Partner Visa Costs in 2025
Applying for an Australian Partner Visa is an expensive but worthwhile process for couples who are committed to building a future together in Australia. While the government application fee remains high, careful planning and budgeting for additional costs such as health checks, police clearances, and translations can help prevent financial strain.
Since refunds are rarely granted, ensuring that the application is complete, well-documented, and legally sound is essential to avoiding wasted money and unnecessary delays. Seeking professional migration advice can also help applicants navigate complex requirements and increase their chances of visa approval.
Ultimately, while the upfront cost of an Australian Partner Visa is substantial, the long-term benefits—permanent residency, work rights, healthcare access, and a pathway to citizenship—make it a valuable investment in securing a future in Australia with a loved one.
Also Read: UK Partner Visa 2025: New Financial Requirements Announced
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