Love knows no borders, and for many couples, Australia is where they want to build a life together. If your partner is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, and you're currently in Australia, the partner visa subclass 820 could be your first step towards living together permanently in Australia.
This visa allows the partner or spouse of an eligible sponsor to live in Australia temporarily while they await a decision on their permanent partner visa (subclass 801).
What is the Partner Visa Subclass 820?
The partner visa subclass 820 is a temporary visa granted to individuals who are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an eligible Australian partner. It is the first stage in a two-part process that leads to permanent residency under the partner visa subclass 801.
While you're on the 820 visa, you can live, work, and study in Australia while your permanent visa is being processed.
Who Can Apply for the Subclass 820 Visa?
You may be eligible for the 820 visa if:
You are in Australia when applying.
You are in a married or de facto relationship with an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
You and your partner are in a genuine and continuing relationship.
You meet health and character requirements.
You are not barred from applying for another visa while onshore (some visa conditions may limit this).
This visa is ideal for couples who are already in Australia and wish to remain together while progressing to permanent residency.
Key Features and Benefits of the 820 Visa
Live in Australia temporarily while waiting for permanent residency.
Work and study without restrictions.
Access to Medicare, Australia’s public health system.
Travel in and out of Australia while your visa is valid.
Eligible to move to the 801 visa stage after two years (if the relationship continues).
Important Documents You’ll Need
To apply for the partner visa subclass 820, you must provide evidence that your relationship is genuine. Some key documents include:
Marriage certificate (if married).
Evidence of shared living arrangements.
Joint financial responsibilities (e.g. joint bank accounts, utility bills).
Photos together over time.
Statements from friends and family.
Personal statements about your relationship.
Remember, quality and consistency of your documents are often more important than quantity.
Processing Time for Partner Visa 820
Processing times for the subclass 820 visa can vary based on factors such as the completeness of your application and the complexity of your case. As of the latest data:
75% of applications are processed in about 23 months
90% are processed within 30 months
While it may seem like a long wait, the 820 visa allows you to stay in Australia during the processing period and continue building your life here.
Applying for the Permanent Subclass 801 Visa
After holding the 820 visa for two years, the Department of Home Affairs will invite you to submit further documents to support your subclass 801 permanent visa. You’ll need to show that:
Your relationship is ongoing and genuine.
You continue to live together or plan to in the near future.
There’s shared responsibility and commitment between you both.
If you're still in a committed relationship, the transition to the 801 visa is typically straightforward.
Cost of the Partner Visa Subclass 820
As of now, the combined application fee for both the 820 and 801 visas starts from AUD $8,850. This is a significant financial investment, but the fee covers both the temporary and permanent visa stages.
Can You Include Family Members?
Yes, you can include dependent children in your application. They’ll receive the same visa status as the primary applicant and can also live, work, and study in Australia.
Tips for a Successful Application
Be honest and consistent – Ensure that the information you provide across all documents aligns.
Submit strong relationship evidence – Focus on financial, emotional, and social aspects of your relationship.
Keep everything updated – Inform the Department of any major changes, like address or relationship status.
Use a registered migration agent – If your case is complex, professional guidance can improve your chances of approval.
Conclusion
The partner visa subclass 820 is a vital pathway for couples wishing to live and build a future together in Australia. While the process can be lengthy and documentation-heavy, it ultimately leads to permanent residency and stability.
By preparing a strong, genuine application and staying informed, couples can navigate the process with confidence. Whether you're newly married or in a long-term de facto relationship, this visa ensures your relationship has the legal support it needs to thrive in Australia.
