A Comprehensive Guide to the Partner Visa Subclass 820 and 801 in Australia
The Onshore Partner Visa Subclass 820 allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Permanent Resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live temporarily in Australia.
This visa is the first step toward obtaining permanent residency through the Partner Visa Subclass 801.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about both the Temporary Partner Visa 820 and the Permanent Partner Visa 801, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and common challenges.
What is the Partner Visa Subclass 820?
The Partner Visa Subclass 820 is a temporary visa that allows non-Australian partners to live and work in Australia while their permanent residency application is being processed.
It’s designed for applicants who are already onshore in Australia, meaning you must be physically present in Australia when you apply for the visa and when it is granted.
Key Features of the Partner Visa 820:
The Subclass 820 visa is the first stage towards the Permanent Partner Visa Subclass 801.
Allows you to live, work, and study in Australia while waiting for the permanent visa decision.
You can access Medicare, Australia’s healthcare system.
You may include dependent children in your application.
Eligibility Criteria for Partner Visa Subclass 820
To be eligible for the Onshore Partner Visa 820, applicants must meet the following criteria:
– Be the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
– If applying as a de facto partner, you must have been in a relationship for at least 12 months unless you have registered your relationship in Australia.
– You and your partner must demonstrate a genuine and ongoing relationship.
– You must meet health and character requirements.
– Your Australian partner must agree to sponsor you for up to 2 years.
The Partner Visa 820 sponsorship requires your partner to support your application, including providing evidence of your relationship and financial support during the visa process.
How to Apply for the Onshore Partner Visa Subclass 820
Applying for the Partner Visa 820 involves submitting a detailed application with evidence of your relationship and personal information. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Lodge your application for the Subclass 820 visa while you are in Australia.
- Provide supporting documents as per the Partner Visa 820 document checklist, including:
– Marriage or de facto relationship certificates
– Joint financial records (shared bank accounts, property ownership, etc.)
– Statements from family and friends about your relationship
– Proof of cohabitation, such as shared bills or lease agreements
– Evidence of shared social and emotional aspects of your relationship (photos, travel records)
- Submit police clearance certificates and undergo health checks.
- Pay the Partner Visa 820 application fees, which start at AUD 9,095 for both the 820 and 801 visas.
Upon submitting your application, you will likely be granted a bridging visa that allows you to stay in Australia while waiting for the visa outcome.
Processing Time for Partner Visa 820
The processing time for the Partner Visa 820 can vary but generally ranges from 12 to 24 months. Delays can occur if the application is incomplete or if additional documents are requested. During this period, you will have access to Medicare and the right to work.
Transition from Partner Visa 820 to Partner Visa 801
After holding the Subclass 820 visa for approximately two years, you become eligible to apply for the Permanent Partner Visa Subclass 801. This permanent visa allows you to:
– Live in Australia indefinitely
– Work and study without restrictions
– Access social security benefits and Medicare
– Sponsor family members for Australian visas
– Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible
You do not need to lodge a separate application for the Subclass 801 visa. Once two years have passed, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your ongoing relationship to determine if you meet the criteria for the Permanent Partner Visa 801.
Partner Visa 820 Document Checklist
Submitting a thorough and complete application is essential to avoid delays. Here’s a general document checklist for the Partner Visa Subclass 820:
– Proof of your relationship: marriage certificate or evidence of a de facto relationship.
– Joint financial records: bank accounts, mortgage documents, and shared utilities.
– Evidence of shared household duties: bills, leases, or homeownership.
– Social evidence: travel photos, event invitations, and statements from friends and family.
– Police checks and medical examination reports.
Each piece of evidence should cover the emotional, social, and financial aspects of your relationship.
Common Challenges and Tips for Success
Applicants for the Onshore Partner Visa 820 often face challenges such as incomplete documentation or insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship. To avoid these pitfalls:
- Be thorough: Ensure that you submit all required documents as per the Subclass 820 document checklist.
- Prove your relationship: Provide a diverse range of evidence that covers financial, social, and emotional aspects of your relationship.
- Engage professional help: Consider working with a migration agent who specializes in Partner Visa 820 applications to ensure your application is complete and meets all criteria.
- Be prepared for delays: Processing times can vary, so ensure that you have health checks and police certificates ready in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.
Fees and Costs for Partner Visa 820/801
The Partner Visa 820 application fees cover both the temporary and permanent stages of the process. The standard fee is around AUD 8,085, with additional costs for police checks, medical exams, and document translations. There are no additional fees when transitioning from the 820 visa to the 801 visa.
Conclusion
The Partner Visa Subclass 820 and 801 offer a clear pathway for non-Australian spouses and de facto partners to live permanently in Australia.
By following the application process carefully and providing all necessary documentation, you can successfully navigate the visa process and secure your future in Australia.
For personalized advice or professional assistance with your Onshore Partner Visa Subclass 820 or 801, consider consulting a migration agent.
They can provide expert guidance and ensure that your visa application is submitted correctly, helping you achieve your goal of living permanently in Australia.
