Partner Visa Subclass 820 and 801 Australia | Migration Services
+61 406 653 713
Migration ServicesAustralia Book consultation
Australian visas

Partner Visa

Subclass 820 / 801

Build your life in Australia with your partner. We prepare partner applications that stand up to scrutiny.

Registered Migration Agent, MARN 0965239
Book a consultationAll visas
Overview

About the Partner Visa

The onshore Partner visa is granted in two stages: the temporary subclass 820 and, later, the permanent subclass 801. It is for the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. An offshore pathway (subclasses 309 and 100) also exists.

Partner applications succeed or fail on the quality of the relationship evidence. We build a corroborated package across the accepted categories, so no single document carries the case, and we pre-empt the concerns a case officer raises.

Onshore
820 then 801
Offshore
309 then 100
Stage 1
Temporary
Stage 2
Permanent [VERIFY timing]
Eligibility

What is generally required

  • A genuine and continuing spousal or de facto relationship
  • An eligible sponsor (citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen)
  • Evidence across the financial, household, social and commitment categories
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • If applying onshore while unlawful, address Schedule 3 requirements [VERIFY]
Partner cases are evidence driven. The earlier the relationship is documented well, the stronger the application.
How we help

Working with a registered migration agent

We start with a consultation to confirm you qualify and to map the strongest version of your application. Then we prepare the evidence, complete the forms, and lodge and manage the application through to a decision, dealing with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.

All migration advice is provided under MARN 0965239 and bound by the MARA Code of Conduct. Where figures on this page are marked to verify, we confirm the current requirement for your specific case before you apply.

Book a consultation
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the 820 and 801?
The 820 is the temporary partner visa and the 801 is the permanent stage. You generally apply for both together and the permanent stage is decided later.
What is the difference between onshore and offshore partner visas?
Onshore is the 820 and 801, applied for in Australia. Offshore is the 309 and 100, applied for outside Australia.
Do we have to be married?
No. You can apply as a married couple or as de facto partners who meet the relationship requirements. [VERIFY de facto period]
What evidence do we need?
Evidence across the financial, household, social and commitment aspects of the relationship, from multiple sources.
Can I work while my partner visa is being processed?
Onshore applicants are usually granted a bridging visa with work rights while the application is decided. [VERIFY]
How long does the process take?
Processing times vary and can be lengthy. [VERIFY current times]
What is Schedule 3?
Schedule 3 sets extra requirements for some onshore applicants who are unlawful or hold certain visas. We can advise if it applies to you. [VERIFY]
Can we include children in the application?
Dependent children can often be included. [VERIFY]
What happens if we separate during processing?
This can affect the application, though there are limited exceptions such as family violence. Speak with us before making decisions. [VERIFY]
Who can be a sponsor?
An Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, subject to sponsorship requirements and limits. [VERIFY]
Do I get permanent residency straight away?
No. Most applicants hold the temporary 820 first, and the permanent 801 is granted later once requirements are met.
Can a Prospective Marriage visa lead to this?
Yes. The Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300) can lead into the partner visa process. [VERIFY]
What if my partner visa is refused?
You may have review rights. We can assess the refusal and advise on next steps.
Related pathways

Other visas to consider

Employer Sponsored VisaVisitor VisaCitizenshipAll visas

Not sure if the Partner Visa is right for you?

Book a consultation with a registered migration agent and get a clear read on your options.

Book a consultation