If you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and wish to continue your life together in Australia, the partner visa 820 may be the right pathway. This temporary visa allows eligible applicants to remain in Australia while progressing towards permanent residency through the Partner Visa (Subclass 801).
Applying for a partner visa in Australia requires careful preparation, strong relationship evidence, and accurate documentation. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, and practical tips to help you submit a successful application.
What Is the Partner Visa (Subclass 820)?
The partner visa 820 is a temporary visa designed for applicants who are already in Australia and are in a genuine relationship with:
- An Australian citizen.
- An Australian permanent resident.
- An eligible New Zealand citizen.
Once granted, this visa allows applicants to remain in Australia while their permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801) application is assessed.
Benefits of the Partner Visa 820
Successful applicants can enjoy several benefits, including:
- Living in Australia with their partner.
- Working without restrictions.
- Studying in Australia.
- Accessing Medicare if eligible.
- Travelling in and out of Australia while the visa remains valid.
- Progressing towards permanent residency through the Subclass 801 visa.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants generally must:
- Be in Australia when applying.
- Be in a genuine and continuing relationship with an eligible sponsor.
- Be married or in a recognised de facto relationship.
- Meet health and character requirements.
- Provide sufficient evidence of the relationship.
- Lodge a complete visa application.
Each application is assessed individually based on the information and supporting documents provided.
Documents Required
Preparing strong supporting evidence is one of the most important parts of the application.
Common documents include:
- Valid passport.
- Birth certificate or identity documents.
- Marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Evidence of a de facto relationship where applicable.
- Joint financial documents.
- Shared residential evidence.
- Photographs together.
- Travel records.
- Communication records.
- Statutory declarations or relationship statements.
- Police clearance certificates.
- Health examination results if requested.
Providing consistent and genuine evidence helps demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Following a structured approach can make the application process much easier.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure both the applicant and sponsor satisfy the relevant eligibility requirements.
Check that your relationship meets the Australian Government’s criteria.
Step 2: Gather Relationship Evidence
Collect documents that demonstrate your relationship over time.
Evidence may include:
- Joint bank accounts.
- Lease agreements.
- Utility bills.
- Shared travel history.
- Photos from different stages of the relationship.
- Statements from family and friends.
The stronger your evidence, the easier it is for decision-makers to assess your application.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather identity documents, police certificates, financial records, and any additional documentation required for your circumstances.
Ensure every document is current and clearly legible.
Step 4: Lodge the Online Application
Complete the online application through the Australian Government’s immigration portal.
Upload all required documents and carefully review your information before submitting.
Step 5: Sponsor Application
Your partner will also need to complete the sponsorship requirements where applicable.
The sponsor must satisfy eligibility criteria and provide supporting information.
Step 6: Health and Character Requirements
Applicants may be asked to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
Completing these requirements promptly can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 7: Await the Visa Decision
The Department of Home Affairs will assess both the visa application and the sponsorship before making a decision.
Applicants should monitor their account regularly for updates or requests for additional information.
Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on several factors, including:
- The completeness of the application.
- Quality of relationship evidence.
- Health examinations.
- Police clearance certificates.
- Individual circumstances.
- Overall application volumes.
Submitting a well-prepared application can help minimise delays.
Costs to Consider
Applicants should budget for expenses such as:
- Government visa application charges.
- Medical examinations.
- Police clearance certificates.
- Document translations if required.
- Certified copies of supporting documents.
Additional costs may apply if dependent family members are included in the application.
Common Reasons for Delays or Refusal
Many applications experience delays because of avoidable issues, including:
- Insufficient relationship evidence.
- Missing documentation.
- Inconsistent information.
- Delayed health examinations.
- Outstanding police certificates.
- Failure to meet sponsorship requirements.
Carefully reviewing your application before submission can reduce these risks.
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances of approval:
- Submit genuine and comprehensive relationship evidence.
- Organise documents clearly before uploading.
- Ensure information is accurate and consistent.
- Respond promptly to requests from the Department.
- Keep copies of every document submitted.
- Lodge your application well before your current visa expires if applicable.
Many couples also seek professional guidance from experienced firms such as AUM Global to better understand the application process and prepare a well-supported visa application.
Final Thoughts
Applying for the partner visa 820 is an important step towards building a future with your partner in Australia. While the application process involves detailed documentation and relationship evidence, careful preparation can make the experience much smoother.
Before submitting your application, review all eligibility requirements, gather strong supporting documents, and ensure your information is complete and accurate. A well-prepared application not only improves your chances of success but also helps you move one step closer to permanent residency and a shared future in Australia.