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Partner Visa (Onshore - 820/801)
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What is the Partner Visa (Subclass 820 & 801)?
The Partner Visa (subclasses 820 and 801) allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. It’s a two-stage process—starting with a temporary visa (subclass 820) and leading to a permanent visa (subclass 801).
You apply for both visas at the same time and pay one application fee. Once granted the 820 visa, you can remain in Australia while you wait to be assessed for the 801 visa, usually about two years after your application. If you’ve been in a long-term relationship before applying, the permanent visa may be granted immediately after the temporary one.
Who Can Apply for a Partner Visa 820/801?
To be eligible for the Partner Visa (subclasses 820/801), you must:
- Be in Australia at the time of application and when the 820 visa decision is made
- Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
- Be married or in a de facto relationship
- Meet health and character requirements
- Not have had a visa refused or cancelled in the past (exceptions may apply)
Benefits of a Partner Visa 820/801
The Partner Visa offers a pathway to permanent residency and many rights along the way, including:
- The ability to live, work, and study in Australia
- Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
- Pathway to Australian citizenship after permanent residency
- Travel in and out of Australia while on the 820 visa
- Include eligible children in your application
Document Checklist for the Partner Visa Application
While every case is different, you will generally need:
- Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)
- Proof of your relationship (marriage certificate or evidence of de facto status)
- Evidence of shared financial responsibilities (joint accounts, bills)
- Proof of living together (rental agreements, correspondence)
- Social evidence (photos, joint travel, statements from friends/family)
- Health and police checks
- Written statements about your relationship history from both partners
Further documentation will be required for the 801 stage, typically two years after applying.
How the Partner Visa 820/801 Works
- Apply Onshore – You must be in Australia when you lodge your application and when a decision is made on the 820 visa.
- Temporary Visa Granted (820) – This lets you stay in Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
- Permanent Visa Assessment (801) – About two years after your application, you’ll be asked to submit updated evidence showing your relationship is ongoing.
- Permanent Visa Granted (801) – If all requirements are met, you’ll be granted permanent residency.
Our experienced migration agents at Australian Visa Advice can help you understand each step, ensure your documentation is strong, and give you the best possible chance of success.
Partner Visa FAQs
The onshore visa (820/801) is for applicants already in Australia, while the offshore visa (309/100) is for those applying from outside Australia.
Yes, dependent children can be included in your application, provided they meet eligibility requirements.
Yes, once granted the 820 visa, you can live, work, and study in Australia while your permanent visa is being processed.
You’re typically eligible for the 801 visa assessment two years after lodging your initial combined application, provided your relationship is still ongoing.
Yes, closer to the two-year mark, you’ll need to submit updated evidence showing that your relationship is continuing, including financial, social, and residential proof.
