Partner Visa 801 and 820 – Your Simple Guide to Staying Together in Australia
Staying together with your partner shouldnt be complicated, especially when youre both serious about building a life in Australia. The partner visa 801 and 820 let's you do just that. If your partner is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, this visa allows you to live with them legally in Australia. The visa comes in two steps: first, a temporary stay, and then permanent residency.
If youre already in Australia and living with your partner, you can apply for both visas in one combined application. That means fewer steps and more peace of mind as you start your future together.
Understanding the Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820)
The partner visa 820 is the first step. This temporary visa lets you stay in Australia while your permanent visa is being processed. Once granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia. Youll also get access to Medicare, Australias public health system.
To apply, you must already be in Australia. You also need to show that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. You can be married or in a de facto relationship. If you're in a de facto relationship, youll usually need to show that you've been together for at least 12 months. If you have children or special reasons, the 12-month rule may not apply.
You can include dependent children in your application. This way, your whole family can stay together during the process.
Proving Your Relationship
When you apply for the temporary visa, the government wants to make sure your relationship is real. Youll need to give documents that show you and your partner share your lives. Some examples include:
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Joint bank accounts
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Lease or rental agreements
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Shared bills
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Photos of you together
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Social media history
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Invitations to events as a couple
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Statements about your plans
This proof helps show that you live like a real couplenot just on paper. The more proof you give, the stronger your application.
Meeting Health and Character Checks
As part of your application, youll need to meet basic health and character standards. This usually means taking a medical exam and getting police checks from every country youve lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
These checks apply to you and any dependent children you include. This step helps protect everyone living in Australia.
How to Apply for the Partner Visa 820
You apply online through the Australian Governments official website. Youll need an Immi Account, where youll upload documents and fill out the forms. Once you pay the fee, your application will be lodged.
After that, youll usually be given a Bridging Visa. This lets you stay in Australia legally while the government processes your partner visa application. Processing times can take from 15 to 24 months, depending on your case. During this time, make sure to keep checking your account for any messages or requests.
What Happens Next: Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)
Once youve had the temporary visa for a while and still meet the rules, you can move on to the permanent partner visa (801). You wont need to pay again, as this was covered in your first payment.
To qualify for the permanent visa, your relationship must still be genuine and ongoing. Youll need to give updated documents, like new photos or proof of shared living expenses, to show that you're still together.
When the permanent visa is granted, you can stay in Australia without a time limit. Youll have full work and study rights, Medicare access, and may also get some social security benefits. This visa can also help you become a citizen later, once you meet residency rules.
Application Timeline: What to Expect
Heres a simple breakdown of how the process works:
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Prepare Documents: Proof of your relationship, identity, health, and character.
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Apply Online: Submit everything using your Immi Account.
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Wait for 820 Visa: You may be given a Bridging Visa while you wait.
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Live in Australia: After getting the 820 visas, continue your life with your partner.
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Apply for 801 Visa: Give updated proof and wait for your permanent visa to be granted.
Important Tips for a Smooth Process
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Keep Everything Updated: If you move house or change your phone number, let the government know.
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Answer Quickly: If they ask for more documents, give them as soon as possible.
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Stay in Australia: You must be in the country when both visas are granted.
Other Partner Visas You Might Hear About
Some people also investigate the partner visa 309, which is for those who apply from outside Australia. Unlike the 820, which is for onshore applicants, the Australia partner visa 309 is for people living overseas who want to join their partner in Australia.
If you're already in the country, stick with the 820 and 801. But if you're abroad, then 309 could be the one you need.
Why This Visa Path Is Worth It
Many couples find the waiting time long, but the result is worth it. Getting to live in Australia with full legal rights, work, study, and even aim for citizenship can open up a stable future.
With clear steps and strong support from your partner, the process is more manageable than it seems.
Building a Life Together in Australia
The partner visa 801 and 820 is one of the best ways for couples to stay together in Australia long-term. While it takes time and effort, it gives you the legal right to live, work, and grow your life in the country with the person you love. If you're starting this journey, dont wait. Start gathering your documents, speak to your partner, and take the first step.
For help that makes things easier, consider talking to KnN Migration. Their team has experience with the whole process and can guide you with real answers, not confusing terms. When youre ready to move forward, theyre a smart place to start.
