When most people think of applying for a partner visa, they assume marriage is the only way. But that’s not entirely true.

In fact, Australian immigration law recognises de facto relationships for partner visa purposes. So if you and your partner are committed, even if you’re not married, you may still be eligible for a Partner Visa—whether you’re applying onshore (subclass 820/801) or offshore (subclass 309/100).

This blog is written to give you clarity, confidence, and hope—especially if you’re navigating the process without a marriage certificate.

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💍 Do I Have to Be Married to Apply for a Partner Visa?

No, marriage is not a mandatory requirement for a partner visa in Australia.

You can apply as a de facto partner as long as your relationship meets certain conditions under the Migration Regulations. This means that unmarried couples who live together (or are temporarily living apart) can still apply for a partner visa legally and legitimately.

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👫 What Is a De Facto Relationship in Migration Terms?

A de facto relationship, under Australian migration law, requires that:
• You and your partner are in a genuine and continuing relationship
• You live together, or at least not separately and apart on a permanent basis
• You are not legally married
• You are not related by family

In most cases, you must demonstrate at least 12 months of cohabitation before lodging your visa application—unless you have registered your relationship in an eligible Australian state or territory.

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🏡 What If We’re Not Living Together for 12 Months?

Some couples may be separated due to:
• Work commitments
• Visa or travel restrictions
• Cultural or family obligations

If the separation is temporary, and your relationship remains genuine and ongoing, your visa application can still be valid. You’ll need to provide strong supporting documents to show emotional, financial, and social interdependence.

To satisfy the Department of Home Affairs, you must prove the four key pillars of your relationship:
1. Financial aspects – shared expenses, joint accounts
2. Nature of the household – who does what at home, where you live
3. Social aspects – how you present yourselves as a couple publicly
4. Nature of the commitment – future plans, communication during separation

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📝 Relationship Registration as an Alternative

If you haven’t lived together for 12 months, registering your relationship can help you bypass that requirement.

Relationship registration is available in certain Australian states and territories and is officially recognised for migration purposes.

✅ States That Allow Relationship Registration:
• New South Wales (NSW)
• Victoria (VIC)
• Queensland (QLD)
• Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
• Tasmania (TAS)
• South Australia (SA)

⚠️ Please note: Western Australia and the Northern Territory currently do not offer relationship registration suitable for visa purposes.

By registering your relationship and presenting adequate documentation, you can lodge a partner visa application even if you’re not yet living together for 12 months.

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💡 Key Takeaways
• You do not need to be married to apply for a partner visa.
• A de facto relationship is a valid legal pathway.
• Cohabitation for 12 months is the standard, but not mandatory with relationship registration.
• Temporary separations are allowed with sufficient evidence.
• The strength of your documentation and ability to prove all four relationship pillars are critical to success.

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🤝 Final Thoughts

Not being married doesn’t close the door to your future in Australia together. Immigration law provides multiple pathways for committed couples to stay united—even if you’re still waiting for the right time to say “I do.”

Whether you’ve lived together, temporarily apart, or registered your relationship, what matters most is the genuineness of your bond and how well you can demonstrate it.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to get professional advice tailored to your unique situation.

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💬 Need Help Preparing Your Partner Visa?

Join the Growmore Community today to:
• Ask your partner visa questions
• Access exclusive visa factsheets
• Get discounted consultations
• Compare timelines with other applicants
• Learn how to structure your relationship evidence

Or, book a personalised consultation with our registered migration agents to guide you step-by-step.

📧 Email: info@growmore.one
📞 WhatsApp: +61 434 202 021
🌐 Join Now: www.growmore.community

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This blog is written by
Krunal Nayak
Registered Migration Agent | CEO – Growmore Immigration
MARN: 2217941

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⚖️ Disclaimer

This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. For personalised assistance, always consult a Registered Migration Agent or qualified legal practitioner.