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Australia PR Requirements for Couples: The Complete 2026 Guide
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Australia pr requirements for couples are among the most searched immigration topics for married partners, de facto couples, and long-term relationships planning to settle permanently in . Australia offers one of the most structured, transparent, and relationship-friendly permanent residency systems in the world.
Whether you are married, in a de facto relationship, or engaged, Australia provides multiple PR pathways for couples—through partner visas, skilled migration, employer sponsorship, and regional programs.
This in-depth guide explains Australia pr requirements for couples step by step, including eligibility rules, documents, visa subclasses, points calculation, processing timelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
📌 Contents
- Overview of Australia PR for Couples
- Eligible Relationship Types
- Partner Visa PR Pathway
- Skilled Migration for Couples
- Points Test Explained for Couples
- Documents Required for Couples
- Financial Requirements
- Health & Character Requirements
- Processing Time & Costs
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- FAQs
Overview of Australia PR for Couples
Australia encourages family unity and long-term settlement. As a result, couples enjoy strong legal recognition under Australian immigration law. PR for couples can be obtained through:
- Partner visa (married or de facto)
- Skilled migration with partner points
- Employer-sponsored visas including dependents
- Regional PR programs
Understanding Australia pr requirements for couples helps applicants choose the fastest, safest, and most cost-effective pathway.
Eligible Relationship Types
Married Couples
Legally married couples are fully eligible for PR, provided the marriage is genuine and legally recognized in Australia.
De Facto Couples
A de facto relationship requires:
- Minimum 12 months of cohabitation (some exemptions apply)
- Evidence of shared finances and life
- Commitment similar to marriage
Same-Sex Couples
Australia recognizes same-sex relationships equally under immigration law.
Partner Visa PR Pathway
The partner visa is the most direct PR option for couples.
Key Partner Visa Subclasses
- Subclass 820/801 (Onshore)
- Subclass 309/100 (Offshore)
The process involves:
- Temporary partner visa approval
- Permanent PR stage after relationship assessment
Partner visas are not points-tested, making them ideal for couples who do not meet skilled migration scores.
Skilled Migration for Couples
Couples can apply for skilled PR together under visas such as:
- Subclass 189 Skilled Independent
- Subclass 190 State Nominated
- Subclass 491 Regional Skilled
In skilled migration, the main applicant earns points, while the partner can contribute additional points.
Points Test Explained for Couples
Australia awards partner-related points as follows:
| Partner Status | Points |
|---|---|
| Skilled partner | 10 |
| Competent English partner | 5 |
| Single or Australian PR partner | 10 |
This makes partner strategy crucial when planning Australia pr requirements for couples.
Documents Required for Couples
Couples must submit strong evidence, including:
- Marriage or relationship certificates
- Joint bank accounts
- Lease or mortgage documents
- Photos, messages, travel records
- Statutory declarations
Weak documentation is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
Financial Requirements
There is no fixed income requirement for partner visas. However, couples must prove:
- Ability to support each other
- No reliance on public funds
- Stable financial arrangements
Health & Character Requirements
Both partners must:
- Pass medical examinations
- Provide police clearance certificates
Character issues can affect the entire application.
Processing Time & Costs
Partner visa processing typically takes:
- 12–30 months (combined stages)
Skilled PR processing depends on points, occupation, and nomination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inconsistent relationship evidence
- Late document submission
- Misunderstanding partner points
- False or exaggerated claims
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marriage mandatory for Australia PR?
No. De facto couples are equally eligible.
Can both partners work on PR?
Yes, permanent residents have full work rights.
Can we apply together?
Yes, couples can lodge a combined PR application.