How Much Does a Partner Visa Lawyer Cost in Australia?

What affects the cost of a partner visa lawyer?

The cost of a partner visa lawyer is affected mainly by how much work the matter needs. A straightforward onshore Subclass 820 application for a couple with strong shared evidence needs less work than an application with an earlier refusal, a Schedule 3 issue, a condition 8503 waiver request or a character concern. The stages included also matter, because some engagements cover only the first stage while others include the permanent stage and responses to Department requests. Our partner visa lawyers Australia fees guide explains these factors in more detail.

Is a fixed fee or an hourly rate better for a partner visa?

A fixed fee is usually easier to plan around for a partner visa than an hourly rate, because the couple knows the total professional cost before work starts. Hourly billing can rise quickly if the Department asks for more information or the evidence needs extra work. Whichever method is used, the lawyer should set out the fee and scope in a written costs agreement. Our article on fixed fee immigration lawyers explains how fixed fee engagements work.

What government costs are paid on top of lawyer fees?

The government costs paid on top of lawyer fees are mainly the visa application charge, which from 1 July 2026 is AUD 11,710 for most partner visa applicants and AUD 1,955 for Subclass 300 holders applying for the Subclass 820 and 801 after marrying. Further charges apply for children or other family members included in the application. Couples also pay for health examinations, police certificates and certified translations. Our article on partner visa cost sets out each item.

Are there extra costs if my partner visa is refused?

Extra costs arise if a partner visa is refused, because the application charge is generally not refunded and a review at the Administrative Review Tribunal requires its own application fee. Legal work on a review is separate from the original application. Our article on partner visa ART fees explains the Tribunal fee and when it may be reduced, and the firm's page on partner visa refusals explains the review work.

How do I compare quotes from partner visa lawyers?

Comparing quotes from partner visa lawyers works only when the scope of each quote is clear. A lower figure may exclude the permanent stage, responses to section 56 requests or the preparation of the relationship statement and Form 888 statements. Couples should ask each lawyer exactly what is included and what would cost extra. Our article on partner visa lawyer fees lists the questions to ask.

How does My Migration Lawyers charge for partner visa work?

My Migration Lawyers charges for partner visa work on fixed fees that are agreed in writing before any work starts, with the scope of each stage set out in the costs agreement. The fee depends on the couple's circumstances, so it is confirmed after the firm has assessed the case at a paid consultation. Couples can read more about the firm's partner visa lawyers and request a consultation using the form on this page.