Updated: 18 October 2026
To prepare a de facto partner visa application, start by checking that you and your partner meet the eligibility requirements, then gather evidence showing that your relationship is genuine and continuing. Your documents should explain how you share finances, manage your household, spend time together socially and commit to a life together. A clear relationship timeline, supported by consistent documents and statements, helps Home Affairs understand your circumstances and assess your application.
Is a De facto Visa right for me?
In order to apply for this kind of visa, either yourself or your partner must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
As well as this, you and your partner must:
- Be in a de facto relationship
- Have been in this relationship for at least 12 months, OR meet the requirements for an exemption
What is a De Facto Relationship?
You and your partner are in a de facto relationship if all of the following applies:
- You are not legally married to each other
- You have a genuine, and continuing relationship
- You are committed to a shared life, to the exclusion of all others
- You live together, or do not live separately and apart on a permanent basis
- You are not related by family
Can I include my children in a De Facto Visa?
Eligible dependent children under 18 can be included, subject to the applicable health, character and parental consent requirements. Older dependent children may also qualify, depending on age and circumstances. Additional government charges apply for children included in the application.
From 1 July 2026, the standard base charge for a combined partner visa application is $11,710. Reduced charges apply to some applicants. Check the Home Affairs fee estimator for the total, including children and any concessions.
