Love No Borders, and in Australia, partner visa (subclass 820) is the legal route that allows couples to live together, even if they come from different corners of the world. If you are an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, and you want to bring your spouse or real partner to live in Australia, then the subclass 820 visa is the first step of your trip.

The visa is already designed for couples in Australia and is a temporary phase of a two-part process that leads to a permanent partner visa subclass 801.

What is a partner Visa (Subclass 820)?

partner visa 820 is a temporary visa that allows an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live, work and study in Australia, while their permanent visa application is processed.

This is part of a two-step process:

Subclass 820 (temporary visa) - allows you to remain in Australia.

Subclass 801 (Permanent Visa)-After two years of waiting period, if the relationship continues.

Who Can Apply?

To apply for the subclass 820 visa, you need:

Stay in Australia at the time of application and when visa is given.

Be in a genuine and continuing relationship with your Australian partner.

Be either married or in a de facto relationship (including same-sex relationships).

Meet health and character requirements.

Have your partner act as your sponsor.

If you are in a real relationship, you will usually be living together for at least 12 months, unless there are extraordinary conditions or your relationship is registered in the Australian state or region.

What are the benefits?

Once given, 820 visa allows you:

Stay in Australia while a permanent 801 visa is processed.

Work and study without restrictions.

Enroll in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.

Include dependent children in your application.

This visa can be an important bridge that allows you to create your life in Australia waiting for permanent residence.

The Application Process

Step 1: Prepare your documents

You will need a combination:

Identity document

Relationship Evidence (Photo, Joint Finance, Communication Log)

Proof of marriage certificate or real status

Health and character checks

Sponsorship documents from your partner

Step 2: Apply online

Applications should be submitted through the Home Affairs Website Department through ImmiacCount. You have to apply for both 820 (temporary) and 801 (permanent) visas at the same time - but the first 820 has been assessed.

Step 3: Wait for processing

The 820 visa takes between 6 to 30 months in the process based on your circumstances and how much your application is complete.

Step 4: Get your 820 visa

Once approved, you will hold a temporary visa that allows you to live in Australia waiting for the result of your permanent visa.

Step 5: Apply for subclass 801

Nearly two years after entering your initial application, the department will invite you to provide more documents to assess your eligibility for 801 permanent visas.

Proving Your Relationship

The heart of the partner visa process is proving that your relationship is real and going on.You’ll need to provide evidence in these four key areas:

Financial – joint bank accounts, shared bills, tax returns.

Household – shared living arrangements, household duties.

Social – photos together, joint invitations, statements from friends and family.

Commitment – communication history, future plans, travel together.

Both you and your partner must also write personal statements (Form 888) outlining your relationship history and future intentions.

Costs Involved

The Partner Visa is one of the more expensive Australian visas. As of 2025, the application fee is:

AUD $8,850 for most applicants.

Additional fees may apply for dependent children.

Note: The fee covers both the 820 and 801 visa applications. You don’t pay again when it’s time for the permanent stage.

Common mistakes to escape

Not providing enough evidence – Be thorough and organized.

Remembering the deadline or failing to respond to requests - it may delay or danger your visa.

Applying outside Australia - for the Subclass 820 you need to be coastal.

It will be enough to assume a small relationship-If you are really, make sure that you complete the 12-month rule or register your relationship.

final thoughts

Partner Visa Subclass 820 is more than a legal document - this is a step towards creating a shared life in Australia with your partner. While the process can be long and complex, it is worth it for the joints that want to live together.