Partner (spouse/de facto) points, explained
Partner points reward a partner's own skills and English ability, or apply differently if the applicant is single or their partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Aarish Haider · Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2619656
Updated 2026-10-22 · General information · Official-source check 2026-10-22
Key facts
| Single applicant / partner is citizen or PR | Generally scores the maximum partner-related points |
|---|---|
| Partner meets skills and English requirements | Scores partner points based on the partner's own profile |
| Partner has competent English only | Scores a lower band of partner points |
| Partner does not meet the above | Generally scores no partner points |
Who this is relevant to
Applicants with a partner, working out whether including the partner's profile changes their total score.
Requirements
Check the exact points category and the relevant time for each requirement. Where relying on a partner’s skills, age, English, assessment, occupation and inclusion in the application can all matter. Do not assume any partner assessment supports any principal applicant’s occupation or visa.
Process
- Identify the relationship and citizenship or permanent-residence circumstances relevant to the points category.
- Check the requirements for the single/citizen-partner, English-only or skilled-partner category.
- Verify supporting documents and dates before claiming points.
- Update the EOI if the relationship or supporting circumstances change.
Evidence
Prepare relationship and status evidence, English records and any required partner assessment. Record which conditions each document supports.
Common issues
The categories are alternatives with their own conditions, not points that can all be added together. Relationship changes and expiring evidence can alter a claim; inaccurate claims can affect the visa application.
Official sources
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