Are you and your partner living in Nepal, dreaming of building a life together in Australia? Whether you are married, living together as de facto partners, or registered under Australian state law, the Australian Partner Visa provides Nepali couples with the opportunity to reunite and live, work, and study in Australia legally.
At Education Tree Global, we understand the unique challenges Nepali applicants face during the visa process—from document gathering to understanding eligibility criteria. This detailed guide explains how to apply for a partner visa for Australia from Nepal, the partner visa Australia checklist, requirements, costs, timelines, and insider tips to improve your chances of success.
What Is an Australian Partner Visa?
The Partner Visa allows spouses or partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to migrate to Australia.
This visa applies to:
- Married couples from Nepal
- De facto partners (living together for 12+ months, with exceptions)
- Same-sex couples
- Registered partners under Australian state or territory law
For Nepali couples separated by borders, this visa is the key to starting a new life together in Australia.
Partner Visa Types: Onshore and Offshore – What Nepali Applicants Should Know
Since most Nepali applicants apply from Nepal, the offshore partner visa pathway is usually the option:
Offshore Partner Visa (Subclass 309 / 100)
- Subclass 309 (Temporary) allows you to enter Australia and stay while your application is processed.
- Subclass 100 (Permanent) is granted after approximately two years if your relationship remains genuine.
Note: If a Nepali applicant is visiting Australia on a tourist or student visa, they may apply onshore for a Subclass 820/801 visa, although this is less common.
Partner Visa Australia Requirements for Nepali Applicants
To apply successfully, both the applicant and sponsor must meet specific requirements:
Applicant Must:
- Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with the Australian sponsor.
- Be married, in a de facto relationship (usually 12+ months), or registered under Australian law.
- Pass Australian health requirements by completing medical examinations in Nepal.
- You must be examined by one of the Department’s approved panel physicians or clinics.
- Obtain police clearance certificates from Nepal and any other country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
- Not be subject to visa restrictions such as “No Further Stay.”
Sponsor (Australian Partner) Must:
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Not have sponsored another partner visa in the last 5 years (exceptions apply).
- Meet Australian character requirements and agree to provide financial and emotional support.
Australian Partner Visa Checklist for Nepali Applicants: Essential Documents
Gathering the correct documents in Nepal is vital and sometimes challenging. Here’s a practical checklist tailored for Nepali applicants:
1. Relationship Evidence
- Joint financial documents (joint bank accounts, loans, or bills). For Nepali applicants, bank statements showing transactions between partners can be helpful.
- Shared residential evidence — joint lease, utility bills, or affidavits if a formal lease isn’t standard.
- Photos of you and your partner over the years — wedding photos, festivals, trips in Nepal and Australia.
- Messages, emails, or social media screenshots showing ongoing contact.
- Invitations to events attended as a couple (weddings, family gatherings).
- Statements from family and friends in Nepal and Australia confirming your relationship.
2. Identity Documents
- Valid passport (Nepali passport).
- Nepali birth certificate (translated and certified if required).
- Marriage certificate issued by the Nepali government or the Australian government (if married).
- Divorce or death certificates, if applicable (with certified translations).
- National ID or citizenship certificate.
3. Police Clearances and Health Checks
- Police clearance from Nepal Police Headquarters in Kathmandu.
- Police clearance from other countries where you lived for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.
- You must be examined by one of the Department’s approved panel physicians or clinics.
- Form 80 and Form 1221, if requested.
4. Supporting Statements and Forms
- Personal relationship statements from both you and your partner. Describe your relationship history, how you met, and your plans.
- Form 888 statutory declarations from Australian friends or family who can vouch for your relationship.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Partner Visa from Nepal
Step 1: Get a Free Assessment with Education Tree Global
Our Nepal-based visa experts evaluate your eligibility and help you select the most suitable visa subclass for your specific situation.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Both the Nepali applicant and Australian sponsor create their accounts on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website and link them.
Step 3: Complete the Application Forms
- Nepali applicant fills Form 47SP (application form for partners).
- Australian sponsor completes Form 40SP (sponsor’s details).
Step 4: Compile and Upload Documents
Upload your relationship evidence, identity documents, police clearances, and health results.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
You can pay the visa application fee online using international credit or debit cards or PayPal.
Step 6: Complete Health and Character Checks in Nepal
Visit approved panel doctors for medical tests and submit police clearances from Nepal.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
The Australian government will review your application, request any additional documents if necessary, and grant a temporary visa (Subclass 309).
After about 2 years, if your relationship remains genuine, the permanent visa (Subclass 100) will be granted.
Partner Visa Costs for Nepali Applicants
Exact costs may vary depending on service providers and exchange rates. Some of the common expenses include:
- Visa application fee
- Medical examination in Nepal
- Nepal Police clearance
- Translation of documents
- Migration agent assistance (if applicable)
Please contact Education Tree Global for a personalized quote and up-to-date cost breakdown.
Common Challenges Faced by Nepali Applicants — And How to Avoid Them
- Document Verification: Nepali government-issued documents may need certified translations and notarization.
- Police Certificates: Obtaining timely police clearances from Nepal and other countries can be a time-consuming process. Plan early.
- Relationship Evidence: Many Nepali couples struggle to provide joint financial documents. Use affidavits and statutory declarations to strengthen your case.
- Understanding Visa Subclasses: Selecting the incorrect subclass can delay your visa application or result in refusal. Always get expert advice.
- Health Checks: You must be examined by one of the Department’s approved panel physicians or clinics to minimize potential issues.
At Education Tree Global, we specialize in helping Nepali applicants navigate these hurdles smoothly.
Why Choose Education Tree Global for Your Partner Visa Application from Nepal?
- Experienced migration agents familiar with Nepali documentation and processes.
- Local support and assistance with police clearances, translations, and medicals.
- Personalised visa strategies designed for Nepali couples.
- Complete guidance on relationship statements, evidence gathering, and application submission.
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and ongoing support until the visa grant.
Conclusion
Applying for a Partner Visa for Australia from Nepal can be a life-changing step for couples wishing to reunite and build a future together. With the right documentation, genuine relationship evidence, and expert guidance, the process becomes more manageable. Education Tree Global offers personalised support to Nepali applicants, helping you navigate every step with confidence—from eligibility checks to final visa approval.
FAQs for Nepali Applicants Applying for Partner Visa Australia
1. How long does the partner visa take if applying from Nepal?
Typically, between 12 and 24 months, although this may be longer depending on individual circumstances.
2. Can Nepali applicants stay in Australia while waiting?
Offshore applicants usually wait outside Australia. Onshore applications are possible if you are already in Australia on a valid visa.
3. How do I get police clearance in Nepal for the visa?
Visit the Nepal Police Headquarters or authorized offices in Kathmandu to request a clearance certificate. It must be recent.
4. What if my relationship hasn’t lasted 12 months?
Registered relationships under Australian law or compelling circumstances can allow earlier applications.
5. Will Education Tree Global help with my relationship statement?
Yes, we assist in preparing detailed and genuine statements to strengthen your application.
