Is There an English Requirement for a Partner Visa?

Does a partner visa applicant need to take an English test?

A partner visa applicant does not need to take an English test for either the Subclass 820/801 or the Subclass 309/100. The criteria focus on the relationship, the sponsor, and health, character and other public interest requirements. A couple with limited English can therefore apply on the same basis as any other couple. Our article on partner visa English requirements explains where English does and does not matter.

Does the sponsor need to speak English?

The sponsor of a partner visa does not need to speak English or prove English ability. A sponsor requirement for English was proposed in the past but does not form part of the current criteria. The sponsor must still be an eligible Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen and must meet the sponsorship rules. Our page on partner visa sponsorship limitations explains the rules that do apply.

Do documents in another language need to be translated?

Documents in another language need an English translation when they are provided with a partner visa application. Marriage certificates, birth certificates, police certificates and messages relied on as relationship evidence are common examples. Our article on partner visa evidence translation explains which documents need translating and how to present them.

Does a language difference between partners affect the relationship assessment?

A language difference between partners does not prevent a partner visa, but the Department may ask how the couple communicate. Couples who share a second language, or who are learning each other's language, should explain this in the relationship statement and show their communication in the evidence. Our articles on partner visa cultural differences and the partner visa relationship statement explain how to address this.

What if the applicant does not understand English well enough to complete the forms?

An applicant who does not understand English well enough to complete the forms should have them explained in a language they understand before signing. Every answer and declaration is the applicant's responsibility, and an incorrect answer can raise integrity concerns under PIC 4020 even where the mistake came from a misunderstanding. Our article on partner visa PIC 4020 explains why accuracy matters so much.

Does English matter later for Australian citizenship?

English becomes relevant later if the partner visa holder applies for Australian citizenship, which has its own requirements, including a citizenship test. That is a separate application with separate criteria, made after permanent residence and the required period of residence. Our article on the partner visa citizenship pathway explains the steps.

How does My Migration Lawyers help couples who do not share English as a first language?

My Migration Lawyers prepares partner visa applications for couples from many language backgrounds and explains each form and declaration clearly before it is signed. The firm, led by Principal Lawyer Weiwei Zhang, can consult in Mandarin, and arranges evidence so that translated documents are presented accurately. Couples can learn more about our partner visa lawyers and how the firm works.