There is no separate long-distance partner visa. Couples in long-distance relationships apply through the standard Australian partner visa framework. The relevant pathway depends on where the applicant is located at the time of lodgement and the legal basis of the relationship.
Married couples in long-distance relationships There is no minimum cohabitation requirement for married applicants. The marriage itself is the legal foundation of the application. The challenge for couples who have spent significant time apart is demonstrating that the marriage is genuine and continuing despite the distance. Communication records, travel history, financial ties, and personal statements carry particular weight in these applications.
De facto couples in long-distance relationships The legal position for de facto applicants is more complex. A de facto relationship under Australian migration law requires living together on a genuine domestic basis, generally for at least 12 months before lodgement. A relationship conducted primarily across distance without a sufficient period of cohabitation may not satisfy the legal definition. This is an area where legal advice before lodgement is essential.
We can help you if:
Your eligibility depends on whether you are married or in a de facto relationship and how much time you have spent living together. The legal requirements are different for each. Here is what to check first.
If you are in a de facto relationship and have not yet lived together for at least 12 months on a genuine domestic basis, your application requires careful assessment before lodgement. Exemptions from the 12-month requirement apply in limited circumstances, including where the relationship is registered under a recognised state or territory law, or where the couple has a biological or adopted child together. Relationship registration is available and recognised for migration purposes in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, and the ACT. Western Australia and the Northern Territory do not have registration schemes recognised for migration purposes. We advise on whether an exemption applies to your circumstances and what the right pathway is before you lodge anything.
Every long-distance partner visa application is assessed against the strength of your relationship evidence across four categories, and whether you meet the mandatory health and character requirements. In long-distance applications, the quality and structure of the evidence carry more weight than in applications where cohabitation evidence is straightforward.
Relationship evidence is assessed across four categories. Every category must be addressed at lodgement. Where cohabitation evidence is limited, the remaining categories must work harder and the absence of cohabitation must be clearly addressed.
The strength of your application depends on how well each category is covered. Where time has been spent apart, written explanations supported by documentation are essential. The sponsor must also submit a separate sponsorship application at the same time. We advise on exactly what is required for your specific circumstances at the initial consultation.
Identity, health, and character checks are mandatory for every applicant and must be completed before lodgement.
Requirements vary depending on your specific circumstances. We confirm exactly what is needed at the initial consultation.
We provide end-to-end legal support for long-distance couples pursuing a partner visa across Australia. From your first eligibility assessment to the permanent stage decision, here is what working with us looks like.
"We had already tried to put our application together ourselves and quickly realised how much we were missing. Partner Visa Lawyers reviewed everything, identified the gaps in our evidence, and lodged a complete application within weeks. We felt in control of the process for the first time."
"My situation was complicated. I had a previous visa refusal and my partner and I had spent long periods apart due to work. They understood the risks upfront, built submissions that addressed them directly, and kept us informed at every stage."
"The advice was specific, practical, and honest. We knew exactly what the Department would be looking for and what we needed to provide. No surprises. Just clear legal guidance from people who know partner visas inside out."
One of the most common concerns couples have is not knowing what comes next. This is what the process looks like when you work with us, from start to finish.
Knowing the full cost upfront lets you plan properly and move forward with confidence. Below is a breakdown of the Department's current government application charges.
In addition to the government application charge, most applicants will incur other costs as part of the process, including health examinations, police clearance certificates, and document translation where applicable. These vary depending on your individual circumstances and country of origin. Contact us for a full cost overview tailored to your situation.
The long distance partner visa uses the same processing framework as all partner visa applications. The stage that applies depends on whether the applicant is onshore or offshore. Understanding both timelines helps you plan realistically.
Speak with us for an assessment of timeframes based on your specific situation.
