When it comes to Australian Partner Visas, one of the most exciting and often surprising outcomes applicants may experience is a “double grant”. This unique scenario occurs when the Department of Home Affairs grants both the temporary partner visa (subclass 820 or 309) and the permanent partner visa (subclass 801 or 100) at the same time.

For many couples, this outcome feels like skipping the long wait between the two stages and moving directly to permanent residency. But how does this work, who qualifies, and what are the rules behind it? This comprehensive guide will explain the double grant partner visa in detail so you know exactly what it means and whether you might be eligible.

What Is a Double Grant Partner Visa?

Normally, partner visas in Australia are processed in two steps:

1. Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820/309) – This is the first stage. It allows the applicant to stay in Australia (if onshore) or join their partner in Australia (if offshore) while waiting for the permanent stage to be assessed.

2. Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801/100) – Usually granted after a two-year waiting period, where the Department reviews the genuine and ongoing nature of the relationship before granting permanent residency.

A double grant bypasses this waiting period. Instead of granting the visas separately, the Department approves both the temporary and permanent visas together.

Why Does the Double Grant Happen?

The Department of Home Affairs does not issue double grants by accident. This decision is based on clear eligibility criteria that show the relationship is long-standing and stable. The main reasons include:

• Length of the Relationship – If the couple has been in a de facto or married relationship for at least three years, the Department may consider the relationship established enough to skip the temporary stage.

• Having a Child Together – If the couple shares a child, even if the relationship is shorter than three years, the Department often recognizes the stability of the relationship and grants both visas simultaneously.

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Eligibility for a Double Grant

To qualify for a double grant partner visa, applicants generally need to meet one of the following conditions:

1. Been in a de facto or married relationship for at least three years at the time of application.

2. Been in a de facto or married relationship for at least two years and share a child together.

It’s important to note that meeting these conditions does not guarantee a double grant. The Department will still consider the strength of your evidence, the genuineness of your relationship, and whether all legal and health criteria are satisfied.

Temporary vs Permanent Partner Visa: Key Differences

To understand the advantage of a double grant, let’s quickly compare the temporary and permanent partner visas.

With a double grant, you skip straight to the permanent visa stage, meaning faster access to benefits such as HELP loans, social security, and earlier eligibility for citizenship.

The Advantages of a Double Grant

For couples who qualify, the double grant partner visa offers significant benefits:

• Faster Security – Permanent residency immediately, rather than waiting years.

• Financial Benefits – Access to Centrelink support and HELP loans sooner.

• Citizenship Pathway – Applicants can apply for citizenship earlier because their permanent residency starts immediately.

• Reduced Uncertainty – No need to wait and provide updated relationship evidence after two years.

• Emotional Relief – Couples can settle down without the stress of a temporary visa status hanging over them.

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Common Misconceptions About Double Grants

Many applicants believe that simply being in a relationship for three years guarantees a double grant. However, this is not always the case. Here are some common myths clarified:

• Myth 1: Double grant is automatic after three years.

Reality: It depends on the quality of evidence and the Department’s discretion.

• Myth 2: Having a child guarantees a double grant.

Reality: While it strengthens eligibility, the Department still assesses the overall relationship and compliance with visa requirements.

• Myth 3: Only married couples qualify.

Reality: De facto couples can also qualify if they meet the time and child requirements.

Evidence Required for a Double Grant

Strong evidence of a genuine and ongoing relationship is essential. The Department assesses four main pillars:

1. Financial Aspects – Shared bank accounts, joint loans, household expenses.

2. Household Arrangements – Living together, shared bills, rental agreements.

3. Social Aspects – Photos, joint travel, invitations, community recognition.

4. Commitment – Length of relationship, future plans, wills, or superannuation beneficiaries.

The stronger your documentation, the more likely you are to receive a double grant partner visa.

How to Improve Your Chances of a Double Grant

If you are applying for a partner visa and hope for a double grant, here are some tips:

• Submit Comprehensive Evidence – Don’t leave gaps in your story. Show the full timeline of your relationship.

• Highlight Length of Relationship – Provide documents that clearly show when your relationship began.

• Include Evidence of Children – If you have a child, include the birth certificate and proof of shared parenting.

• Be Consistent – Ensure that your evidence, forms, and statutory declarations align without contradictions.

• Seek Professional Help – A registered migration agent can present your case more effectively and improve your chances.

We provide a comprehensive

FREE CHECKLIST for Partner Visas, so you can review it and improve your chances of success

Recent Trends in Double Grants

Over the last few years, the Department has become more transparent about granting double stage partner visas when eligibility is clear. Many applicants who applied with well-documented long-term relationships are receiving direct permanent residency.

However, immigration policy can shift, so it’s important to stay updated with official announcements from the Department of Home Affairs.

Key Takeaways

• A double grant partner visa means receiving both the temporary and permanent partner visas at the same time.

• Eligibility is based mainly on relationship length or having a child together.

• It provides faster access to permanent residency benefits and a quicker pathway to citizenship.

• Strong evidence of a genuine and ongoing relationship is critical.

Conclusion

A double grant partner visa is one of the most rewarding outcomes for couples applying to live together in Australia. By meeting the eligibility requirements, providing comprehensive evidence, and ensuring your application is carefully prepared, you can increase your chances of securing this outcome.

While it may not be guaranteed for every couple, the double grant represents Australia’s recognition of genuine, committed relationships and provides couples with the security and stability they need to build their future together.

If you’re considering applying for a partner visa in Australia, it’s worth exploring whether your relationship qualifies for this opportunity – and preparing your case with the best possible documentation.

A registered migration agent can:

• Review your statement

• Suggest missing elements

• Ensure your story and evidence are aligned

Want help from a registered agent ( Sam Lotfollahi) with 16+ years of experience?

Book a consult with buttom below or email us.

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How We Can Help

At Millennium Migration, we provide expert legal and strategic advice to help you navigate these upcoming changes. Whether you’re applying for skilled migration, a partner visa, or PR through the 485 stream, we’ve helped hundreds succeed—and we’re ready to help you too.

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Other Relevant Media Sources

The Australian Department of Home Affairs