The Subclass 309 is a temporary partner visa that allows a spouse or de facto partner to live in Australia while the permanent visa is being processed. The Subclass 100 is the permanent stage — granted once the applicant meets all eligibility requirements, typically after a period on the 309. Both are applied for simultaneously in most cases.

The Balance of Family Test is a mandatory requirement for all parent visa categories. It requires that at least half of the applicant's children reside permanently in Australia — or that more of their children live in Australia than in any other single country. If the test is not met, the parent visa application will be refused.

Yes, in most cases. Health insurance is required unless the applicant is eligible for Medicare. Temporary visa holders — particularly on parent or student dependent visas — are generally not eligible for Medicare and must maintain adequate private health insurance throughout their stay in Australia.

Yes. Depending on eligibility, you may apply for a different visa category — such as a skilled visa, student visa, or employer-sponsored visa — while in Australia on a dependent visa. This is known as applying for a 'subsequent entrant' or change of visa status. Always check bridging visa conditions before applying.

Yes. Applications can be refused for various reasons including insufficient documentation, failure to meet eligibility criteria, not passing the health or character requirement, insufficient relationship evidence, or not meeting the Balance of Family Test for parent visas. In many cases, refused decisions can be appealed through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

Yes. The Subclass 491 allows eligible family members — including your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children — to be included in your application. They will be granted the same visa conditions and will need to live and work in a designated regional area alongside the primary applicant.

Processing times vary significantly: partner visas (Subclass 309/100) typically take 12–24 months; child visas (Subclass 101) take 6–12 months; and parent visas can take several years — particularly non-contributory categories where waiting times can exceed a decade. It is strongly advisable to apply as early as possible and well ahead of any planned travel dates.