How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost for a Partner Visa in Australia?

Applying for a partner visa is one of the biggest decisions a couple can make and one of the most expensive. Before you lodge anything, it pays to understand exactly what you are up to for, from government fees through to legal costs, medicals, and the documents that most applicants forget to budget for. This guide covers every cost involved in a 2026 Australian partner visa application, explains what drives lawyer fees up or down, and shows you how to avoid the single most expensive mistake: a refused application.

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What Does the Government Charge for a Partner Visa?

The highest upfront cost you will face has nothing to do with lawyers  it is the visa application charge (VAC) paid directly to the Department of Home Affairs when you lodge. As of 1 July 2025, those charges are:

Applicant

Fee (AUD)

Primary applicant

$9,365

Additional applicant 18 or over

$4,685

Additional applicant under 18

$2,345

ART appeal (if refused)

$3,580

Source: Department of Home Affairs, effective 1 July 2025. Fees reviewed annually.

One important thing couples often miss: this single fee covers both the temporary and permanent stages of the visa. You do not pay again when your permanent stage (Subclass 801 or 100) is assessed. However, the fee is entirely non-refundable even if your application is refused. That is why the quality of your application matters so much.

How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Charge for a Partner Visa?

Professional legal fees are completely separate from the government charge above. What you pay an immigration lawyer or registered migration agent (MARA) depends almost entirely on the complexity of your case.

Case Type

Professional Fees (2026)

Standard, straightforward application

$4,500 – $7,500

Moderate complexity (overseas sponsor, prior visa history)

$7,500 – $11,000

High complexity (refusals, Schedule 3, family violence)

$11,000 – $15,000+

Initial consultation (1 hour)

$195 – $660

Hourly rate for appeals or complex queries

$200 – $660+

What makes a case more expensive?

A standard partner visa application with clear evidence and no visa history complications sits at the lower end. In our experience at CMI Legal, these are the factors most likely to push your costs higher:

  • A prior visa refusal or cancellation in Australia or overseas
  • Sponsors who have previously sponsored a partner visa
  • A need for a Schedule 3 waiver required when applying onshore after a previous visa expired
  • Limited relationship evidence, such as a very short de facto relationship
  • Couples who have spent significant time living in different countries
  • Applications involving family violence provisions
  • Health or character waivers required
  • Cases that may proceed to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)

Other Costs You Need to Budget For

Beyond the government charge and legal fees, there are several supporting costs that every partner visa applicant faces. Many couples underestimate these.

 

Cost Item

Estimated Cost (2026)

Medical examination — per adult

$300 – $600

Medical examination — per child

$150 – $350

National Police Check (Australia)

$42 – $50

Overseas police clearances

$50 – $300+ (varies by country)

Certified document translation

$100 – $400 per document

Biometric collection (where required)

$50 – $150

Chest X-ray (if required by medical)

$50 – $150 additional

Relationship statement preparation

Included in most law firm packages

In Australia, all health examinations must be completed through Bupa Medical Visa Services, which is approved by the Department of Home Affairs. If you are applying offshore, you will use an approved panel physician in your home country.

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Planning a partner visa in Australia involves more than government fees. Total costs, including legal, medical, and documentation expenses, often reach $15,000–$30,000+, depending on case complexity and requirements.
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So, What Should I Budget Overall?

When you add everything together, government charges, legal fees, medicals, police checks, and translations, here is a realistic picture of what a 2026 partner visa costs:

 

Scenario

Total All-In Estimate

Standard case, single applicant, no complexity

$15,000 – $18,000

Moderate complexity or an applicant with dependants

$18,000 – $25,000

High complexity prior refusal, Schedule 3

$25,000 – $35,000+

Visa refused, ART appeal required

Add $7,000 – $15,000+



Immigration Lawyer or Migration Agent Does It Matter?

Both can help you with a partner visa application. The difference comes down to qualifications and what happens if things go wrong.

Key Differences

Immigration Lawyer

Registered Migration Agent

Qualification

Law degree + bar admission

MARA registration + graduate diploma

Can give legal advice

Yes

Yes (within migration law)

Tribunal representation (ART)

Yes

Yes

Court representation

Yes

No

Typical fee range

$5,000 – $15,000+

$3,500 – $10,000

Best suited for

Complex cases, appeals, court

Standard to moderately complex applications

At CMI Legal, our team includes both qualified immigration lawyers and MARA-registered migration agents. For standard applications, a registered migration agent is often the most cost-effective option. Where there is real complexity before refusals, ART hearings, or court proceedings  having a lawyer is the stronger choice.

Which Partner Visa Is Right for You?

The visa you apply for depends on where you are when you lodge. This affects your costs and processing timeline.

Visa Subclass

Who It Is For

Government Fee

Subclass 820 → 801 (Onshore)

The applicant is already in Australia

$9,365

Subclass 309 → 100 (Offshore)

Applicant outside Australia at lodgement

$9,365

Subclass 300 (Prospective Marriage)

Not yet married; plans to marry within 9 months

$9,095

The 820/801 and 309/100 are both two-stage processes  a temporary visa is granted first, followed by a permanent visa (typically after two years). That single upfront government fee covers both stages. The Subclass 300 prospective marriage visa is for couples who are engaged but not yet married at the time of application.

How Long Will Processing Take in 2026?

Partner visas are consistently among Australia’s longest-processing visa categories. Based on current Department of Home Affairs data:

Visa

Estimated Processing Time (75th percentile)

Subclass 820  temporary, onshore

20 – 28 months

Subclass 801  permanent, onshore

14 – 24 months after the temporary grant

Subclass 309  temporary, offshore

24 – 36 months

Subclass 100  permanent, offshore

14 – 24 months after the temporary grant

Subclass 300  prospective marriage

18 – 24 months

The most common cause of delays is a request for further information (RFI) from the Department, usually because the application was incomplete or the relationship evidence was not clearly organised. A well-prepared application submitted by an experienced migration agent can significantly reduce the chance of an RFI.

Frequently Asked Questions

In 2026, professional fees typically range from $4,500 to $15,000, depending on the complexity of your case. A straightforward application usually falls between $4,500 and $7,500. Cases involving prior refusals, Schedule 3 waivers, or ART appeals can exceed $15,000. These fees are separate from the government application charge of $9,365.

As of 1 July 2025, the government fee is $9,365 for the primary applicant. Additional applicants aged 18 or over pay $4,685, and those under 18 pay $2,345. This fee covers both the temporary and permanent stages of the visa and is non-refundable if refused.

You can apply without a lawyer, but partner visas are among the most complex applications in Australia’s migration system. The relationship evidence requirements are detailed, the government fee is non-refundable, and refusals are common. Professional assistance significantly reduces your risk and the cost of a refusal is nearly always greater than the legal fee.

Both are qualified to prepare and lodge partner visa applications. Immigration lawyers can also represent you in court, while registered migration agents are limited to tribunal representation. For most standard and moderately complex applications, either is suitable. For matters involving court, judicial review, or highly complex character issues, an immigration lawyer is the stronger choice.

The Subclass 820 onshore temporary visa currently takes 20–28 months at the 75th percentile processing time. The offshore Subclass 309 takes 24–36 months. These timeframes can be shortened by submitting a complete, well-organised application from the outset.

Yes. We regularly assist clients with Schedule 3 waivers, prior visa refusals, sponsor eligibility issues, and ART appeals. Complex cases are handled directly by our immigration lawyers, not passed to junior staff or external agents.

CMI Legal has MARA-registered migration agents and qualified immigration lawyers who specialise exclusively in Australian visas. We offer transparent fixed fees, a 95%+ approval rate on standard applications, and a free initial consultation with no obligation.

You can apply for a review at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). The government filing fee is $3,580, and legal representation at the ART typically costs an additional $8,000–$20,000+. The ART process can take one to two years. This is why getting the initial application right matters so much.

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Joe Shi
10:53 10 Mar 26
Tina Tang is doing excellent service job as a profesional lawer and provide valued information about property purchase issue.Thank you so much,we are appreciated to your skilled help and hope to cooperate with your esteemed company,current residential living apartment 506/2-4 Culworth Ave Killara should be put in market,we hope Tina Tang will provide support as well.thank you so much.
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Sydney Translation
22:10 18 Feb 26
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Ying Wan
08:39 10 Feb 26
We had an excellent experience with CMI Legal during our property purchase. The team was highly professional, detail-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable throughout the entire process. They carefully reviewed all contracts, clearly explained potential risks, and provided practical advice at every stage, which gave us great peace of mind. Communication was prompt and clear, and they were always patient in answering our questions. Their efficiency and attention to detail made what could have been a stressful process smooth and well-managed. We would confidently recommend CMI Legal to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy conveyancing and legal services, with special thanks to Tina for her professionalism, patience, and exceptional support throughout the process.
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郭小姐
23:49 27 Jan 26
Attorney Tina was professional and patient; I am very grateful for her legal assistance during my home sale process.
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Solutions NovaBuild
19:57 22 Jan 26
John and Tina are the best! I just had another settlement through them. Everything was so smooth and they are reminding you every step for the key points.
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P W
12:00 28 Nov 25
I recently used CMI and worked with Tina for my property settlement. Tina was extremely helpful, patient and very professional throughout the entire process. She explained everything clearly, kept me updated at every step and made the whole experience smooth and stress-free. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer. Highly recommend Tina and the CMI team!
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Andy Hsieh
00:31 27 Nov 25
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have Tina as my solicitor. She has been outstanding throughout the entire contract exchange and settlement process. She is always the first to respond, timely, and extremely efficient. Her attention to detail is exceptional, and she consistently makes sure everything is in the buyer’s best interest. Super attentive, helpful, and genuinely caring. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Tina to anyone looking for reliable and professional legal services.
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David Lin
11:41 23 Nov 25
Many thanks to Senior Lawyer Tina Tang for helping me handle the sale of my property in Sydney. She liaised with the real estate, banks and buyers broker and explained everything well and handled the sale meticulously.Her professional ability, experience and sense of responsibility are trustworthy. I recommend Tina and CMI for anyone looking for support in real estate sales.
David Lin
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Denis Lebrun
00:14 21 Nov 25
John Zhang has been absolutely great in helping me with my EOI and application for a skilled visa in Australia. On both calls I've had with John, I have had a multitude of questions for him which he answered in depth and gave me all the information I required. He really has a great amount of knowledge and I would highly recommend him and the CMI legal team for their efficiency and professionalism.
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Jing LI
03:22 30 Sep 25
I was very fortunate to have Tina TANG from CMI as my conveyancing solicitor for the recent sale of my property. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication throughout the entire process — from preparing the contract, exchanging contracts, right through to settlement. What impressed me the most is that even after settlement, she continued to go above and beyond to assist me as the vendor, making sure everything was properly taken care of.

Her diligence, patience, and attention to detail gave me great peace of mind and took away a lot of the stress of selling a property. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable, professional, and truly supportive conveyancing solicitor. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Sabrina Ng
06:57 12 Aug 25
Outstanding service from start to finish. Tina Tang handled my unit's sales contract with exceptional professionalism. Communication was always clear and prompt, making the whole process smooth and stree free. I highly recommand Tina to anyone seeking a reliable and knowledgeable solicitor.
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Max Swan
22:16 01 Jul 25
I’ve had an incredibly positive experience working with John & Winnie on my matter. From start to finish, they have been professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely supportive throughout what’s been a stressful time for me.

They explained every step of the process clearly, responded promptly to any questions I had, and made complicated situations feel a lot more manageable. I felt like I was in good hands the entire time, and their calm, confident approach really helped me stay grounded.

Highly recommend CMI services to anyone needing immigration or legal assistance — couldn’t be more grateful.

Thanks again!
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danny
11:57 26 Jun 25
As an old customer of CMI, this year is already the 8th year. Special thanks to attorney John and attorney Tina for carefully answering our various questions, providing a lot of professional advice and help, allowing us to easily complete each transaction.
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Vivien Lu
01:39 23 May 25
Tina was a great lawyer - she was always incredibly knowledgeable, answered all questions promptly, and very friendly. Would recommend Tina!
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Zhiyi LI
04:58 14 Mar 25
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Jeremy Tong
22:32 20 Sep 24
Tina was a great help in guiding us through our first home buying experience. She gave us a lot of great explanations and advice from initial discussion of the process through every step until successful settlement. Communication and resolution of issues was prompt and professional.
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Yun Jung Hsieh
05:56 12 Aug 24
Tina is a fantastic lawyer. her responses to my queries were thorough and timely, and impeccable organizational skills! Truly appreciated her clear and consistent communcation througout the entire property-purchasing process. she handled everything with profressionalism and expertise, making what could have been a stressful experience much smoother. Highly recommend!
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Jeena Jung
05:04 06 Aug 24
We had the pleasure of working with Tina as our solicitor for our first home purchase, and we couldn’t have been in better hands. She carefully explained every step of the process, guiding us through what initially felt overwhelming and unfamiliar. Buying off the plan made us particularly cautious, especially when it came to reviewing legal documents. Tina’s meticulous approach put us at ease—she ensured we both clearly understood each aspect, taking the time to highlight and reorganise information to make it more accessible. Her dedication and professionalism made the entire experience far less daunting, and we’re truly grateful for her support.
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Keyu Jiang
10:03 05 Aug 24
John and Tina have provided great professional legal service since 2017 for me.
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Ian Pereira
09:18 04 Jul 24
I realised that I hadn’t left a review for my dealings with CMI legal. I had dealt with them a few months ago, but an epiphany made me come and leave a review.

5 stars is insufficient to express their work. We were working Dee and she is an amazing and thorough professional. She goes above and beyond and explains matters that makes you understand things really well. Thank you Dee for your amazing work.

Meet Our Experienced Legal Team of Partner Visa Lawyer

Mathew Wu

Director

Jhon Zhang

Principal

Tina Tang

Lawyer

Rita Lam

Lawyer

Malorie Tan

Lawyer

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