Partner Visa Subclass 820 & 801
The Subclass 820 and 801 Partner Visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live, work, and study in Australia. You lodge a single combined application that takes you from the temporary 820 visa through to the permanent 801 visa — a clear two-stage pathway designed for couples already inside Australia.
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What is a Partner Visa in Australia?
The Partner Visa in Australia allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live, work, and study in Australia. It is one of the most common PR pathways for couples planning to build a future together in Australia.
The process usually starts with the temporary 820 visa before progressing to the permanent 801 visa. These visas are designed for applicants who are already inside Australia at the time of application.
Many couples feel overwhelmed by the Australian Partner Visa process because of the amount of relationship evidence and documents required. If you’re unsure where to start, Pathway to Aus can help simplify the process and guide you through your visa pathway.
Australian Partner Visa - Subclass 820/801
In this video we explain the Australian Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801). This is specifically for someone who is applying for the partner visa onshore.Compare Visa Types
The 820 Visa
Stage 1 of the Partner Visa pathway
The 820 visa is the temporary stage. It allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to stay in Australia while waiting for permanent residency through the 801 visa.
- Live, work and study in Australia temporarily
- Travel in and out of Australia freely
- Access to Medicare
- Free English classes through the AMEP
The 801 Visa
Stage 2 of the Partner Visa pathway
The 820 visa is the temporary stage. It allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to stay in Australia while waiting for permanent residency through the 801 visa.
- Live permanently in Australia
- Work and study without restrictions
- Sponsor eligible family members
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
Your Partner Visa pathway, step by step
Lodge 820/801
Combined application submitted from inside Australia with relationship evidence.
1
820 Granted
Live, work, study and travel while you wait. Access to Medicare and AMEP English.
2
Provide Evidence
Around two years in, submit updated relationship evidence when requested.
3
801 Granted
Permanent residency, unrestricted work, sponsor family, citizenship pathway.
4
Not sure if you qualify for a Partner Visa in Australia?
Tell us about your relationship and situation. We'll help you understand your eligibility and next steps.
What Are the Requirements for a Partner Visa 820/801?
To qualify, applicants must show they are in a genuine and continuing relationship with their sponsor, and meet a few core conditions before lodging.
In Australia when applying
The applicant must usually be inside Australia at the time the visa is lodged.
Health & character
Standard immigration health checks and police clearances are required.
An eligible sponsor
An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Genuine relationship
A genuine and continuing relationship, evidenced across four key areas.
Immigration assesses four key areas of your relationship
Financial Aspects
How you have combined money and resources as a couple.
- Joint accounts
- Shared bills
- Financial support
- Shared assets
1
Nature of the Household
How you live together and share daily responsibilities.
- Living arrangements
- Shared responsibilities
- Household commitments
2
Social Aspects
How your relationship is recognised by friends, family and community.
- Photos together
- Travel history
- Messages
- Invitations
3
Commitment to Each Other
Your future plans and long term intentions as a couple.
- Future plans
- Long term intentions
- Ongoing commitment
4
Working on a Partner Visa, and What Happens If Things Change
Two scenarios most applicants want clarity on before they apply.
Can You Work on a Partner Visa?
As a holder of the temporary 820, you have full work rights in Australia. You can work for any employer and in any industry while your permanent visa is being processed.
Once granted the permanent 801, you continue to have unrestricted work rights, but with the added security and stability of permanent residency. This often makes long term career and life planning much easier.
Subclass 820
Work for any employer, in any industry, while you wait for the 801.
Subclass 801
Continued work rights plus the stability of permanent residency.
What Happens If You Break Up During the Process?
A relationship breakdown can affect your Partner Visa application, especially if you are still on the 820 visa stage and have not yet received the 801 visa.
In some situations, applicants may still continue their visa pathway through Australia’s family violence provisions or if there are children involved in the relationship. Every case is different, and outcomes depend heavily on the evidence and circumstances.
If your relationship changes during the Partner Visa process, it is important to get professional advice as early as possible.
How Pathway to Aus Can Help
Applying for a Partner Visa in Australia can feel stressful and confusing, especially when dealing with large amounts of relationship evidence, immigration requirements, and changing rules. Getting the right advice early can make a major difference in building a clear pathway toward permanent residency in Australia.
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Exploring other migration pathways?
If you are considering alternatives or additional options alongside a Partner Visa, here are other ways to come to Australia and stay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Is the 820 visa a permanent visa?
No, the 820 visa is a temporary partner visa. It allows applicants to remain in Australia while waiting for the permanent 801 visa to be assessed.
How long does it take to get the 801 visa after the 820 visa?
The 801 visa is usually assessed around two years after the combined 820/801 application is lodged. Processing times can vary depending on the case and supporting documents.
Can you work full-time on an 820 visa?
Yes, the 820 visa gives full work rights in Australia. Visa holders can work for any employer and in any industry while waiting for the 801 visa decision.
Can I apply for a Partner Visa while on a student visa?
Yes, many applicants apply for a Partner Visa while holding a student visa or another temporary visa in Australia. However, your visa conditions and timing of application are important considerations.
Do you need to live together for a Partner Visa?
In most cases, immigration expects couples to show they are living together or have combined their lives in a genuine way. De facto couples usually need to show at least 12 months of relationship evidence unless the relationship is officially registered.
What evidence is strongest for a Partner Visa?
Strong evidence usually includes joint finances, shared living arrangements, travel together, communication records, photos, and statements from friends and family recognising the relationship.
