When love finds its way across borders, Australia offers a solution that keeps couples together through the Partner Visa Subclass 820. This visa allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia temporarily while waiting for the permanent Partner Visa Subclass 801.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Partner Visa Subclass 820 – from eligibility requirements to processing time, costs, documentation, and expert tips to improve your chances of a successful application.

What is the Partner Visa Subclass 820?

The Partner Visa Subclass 820 is an onshore visa for partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents. It is the first step in a two-stage process that leads to permanent residency via the Subclass 801 visa.

This temporary visa allows you to:

• Live, work, and study in Australia.

• Travel freely in and out of the country.

• Access Medicare (Australia’s public health system).

• Apply for permanent residency after a certain period, typically two years.

Who Can Apply for the Subclass 820 Visa?

To be eligible for the Partner Visa Subclass 820, you must:

1. Be in Australia at the time of application.

2. Be married to or in a de facto relationship with:

   • An Australian citizen,

   • An Australian permanent resident, or

   • An eligible New Zealand citizen.

3. Be over 18 years of age (both applicant and sponsor).

4. Prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing.

5. Meet health and character requirements.

6. Not have a visa cancelled or previously refused while in Australia.

Married vs De Facto Relationships

You don’t need to be legally married to apply for this visa. If you are in a de facto relationship, you must prove that you’ve lived together for at least 12 months, unless your relationship is registered with an Australian state or territory.

How to Apply for Partner Visa Subclass 820

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the application process:

1. Gather Your Documents

You'll need both personal and relationship evidence, such as:

• Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)

• Marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship

• Proof of shared financial commitments

• Photos, travel history, joint bills or lease agreements

• Statements from family and friends

• Health examination results

• Police clearance certificates

2. Submit Your Application Online

Applications are lodged online via the ImmiAccount portal. You must be in Australia when you apply.

3. Pay the Application Fee

As of now, the base application charge for a Partner Visa (820/801 combined) is AUD 8,850, with additional charges for dependents.

4. Sponsor Application

Your partner (the sponsor) must also complete a sponsorship application and submit their identity and character documents.

5. Await the Outcome

Once submitted, your application may take 21 to 27 months to process. You’ll be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) that lets you stay in Australia legally while your 820 visa is under process.

What is the Bridging Visa A?

After lodging the 820 visa, applicants are automatically granted a Bridging Visa A, which allows them to stay in Australia legally while their Partner Visa is processed. It may also allow work and study rights depending on the conditions of the previous visa held.

Key Documents Checklist

Here are some essential documents you'll need for the Partner Visa Subclass 820 application:

• Passport and identification

• Form 888 – statutory declarations from friends/family

• Proof of cohabitation – lease or bills in both names

• Photos and correspondence showing the development of the relationship

• Bank statements for joint financial arrangements

• Character documents (police checks)

• Health examination report from a panel physician

Proving a Genuine Relationship

One of the most critical parts of the 820 visa application is proving your relationship is real and committed. This includes showing:

• Financial aspects – joint accounts, shared bills

• Social aspects – photos, events attended together

• Household arrangements – living together, chores, responsibilities

• Nature of your commitment – plans, communication, long-term goals

A well-documented application with detailed evidence can make a huge difference.

Processing Time

As of 2025, the processing time for the Partner Visa Subclass 820 is:

• 75% of applications: within 21 months

• 90% of applications: within 27 months

However, this may vary depending on the completeness of your application, demand, and complexity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants delay or risk their visa approval due to avoidable errors. Here are some tips to help:

• Don’t lodge incomplete applications – always provide clear, honest, and full documentation.

• Avoid inconsistency in your relationship timeline and evidence.

• Register your de facto relationship if you haven’t lived together for 12 months.

• Keep your ImmiAccount updated with any changes in your situation.

• Seek help from a migration agent if unsure – a registered agent can save time and reduce stress.

What Happens After the Subclass 820 Visa?

After approximately two years from the date you lodged the 820 visa, you may become eligible for the Partner Visa Subclass 801, which is permanent residency. You’ll need to:

• Confirm your relationship is still ongoing.

• Provide updated evidence of your partnership.

• Pass character and health checks again.

Once granted, the 801 visa allows you to stay in Australia permanently, work and study freely, and even apply for citizenship in the future.

Partner Visa Subclass 820 and Work Rights

You can work full-time once you are granted the Bridging Visa A (usually with unrestricted work rights), or once your Subclass 820 visa is approved. This helps couples support themselves financially during the waiting period.

Final Thoughts

Apply for Partner Visa Subclass 820 offers a way for couples to build a life together in Australia while progressing toward permanent residency. Though the application process may seem complex, it’s absolutely achievable with the right preparation, evidence, and patience.

Whether you're married or in a committed de facto relationship, this visa could be your path to securing a future in Australia with your loved one.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the paperwork, timelines, or eligibility, consider speaking to a migration agent experienced in partner visa applications. Their guidance can make the journey smoother and improve your chances of success.