If you are in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, a partner visa 820 may be your ticket for future construction in Australia. Whether you are already in Australia on a separate visa or planning long -term disposal, the subclass 820 is an important first step towards permanent residence.
In this post, we will explain what is the subclass 820 visa, who is this, the application process, eligibility requirements and major tips to enter a successful application.
What is partner visa subclass 820?
The Subclass 820 Visa is a temporary onshore partner visa that allows an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen’s spouse or real partner to live in Australia. This is the first stage in the two-step process that leads to a permanent partner visa (subcate 801).
Once given, the 820 visa lets you live in Australia, while you wait for a decision on your permanent partner visa. Depending on your circumstances, it may take 12 to 24 months (or more) to be eligible for a permanent phase.
Who is eligible for the subclass 820 visa?
To apply for the subclass 820 visa, you need:
Stay in Australia at the time of application and when visa is given.
An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen in a real relationship or in a real relationship.
Be in a real and continuous relationship.
Meet health and character requirements.
Be sponsored by your partner (they must also be approved).
Generally, over 18 years of age (with some exceptions).
Catch a visa that allows for onshore applications (some bridging visa, student visa and visa visa qualification). best immigration agent Hobart
What is the “real” relationship considered?
If you are not married, then your relationship should be classified really, which means:
You and your partner are in a committed relationship for at least 12 months.
You live together (or do not live apart on a permanent basis).
You are not related to your family.
You can demonstrate a shared life emotionally, economically and socially.
There are some exceptions to 12 months of requirement, such as if you have registered your relationship in an Australian state or region where it is available (eg Victoria or NSW).
Documents and evidence are necessary
It is real to prove your relationship and is central for the success of your application. You’ll need to submit extensive evidence under four main categories:
Financial aspects – joint bank accounts, shared bills, financial support.
Social aspects – photos together, joint travel, statements from friends/family.
Domestic shared system, lease or mortgage documents.
Commitment: Future plans, communications, while separate, will or insurance naming each other.
In addition, you need an identity document (passport, birth certificate), police clearance, medical checks, and more. Your sponsor must also submit identity and character documents.
The Application Process
The process of applying for the subclass 820 visa includes the following stages:
Assemble the documents, arrange evidence about your relationship, personal documents and health/character check.
Apply online When you are in Australia, lodge your application through Immiaccount.
Pay the application fee – The current fee is AUD $ 8,850 (as 2025). It covers both 820 and 801 stages.
Bridging Visa – If your current visa expires, you may be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) allowing you to stay in Australia lawfully during processing.
Wait for a Decision – You may be contacted to provide more information or attend an interview.
Visa Grant – Once approved, you’ll hold the 820 visa while awaiting eligibility for the permanent 801 visa.
What Can You Do on a Subclass 820 Visa?
With an 820 visa, you can:
I live and work in Australia.
Study (but you won’t have access to government funding).
Access Medicare, Australia’s public health system.
Travel in and out of Australia freely (unless restrictions apply due to BVA conditions).
When can you apply for a subclass 801 (permanent) visa?
After being at 820 visas for 2 years, you can become eligible for permanent subclass 801 visas. Immigration will reevaluate your relationship that it is still real and continuing.
If you are in a long term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with a child), you may be eligible for a direct permanent residence without normal waiting.
Common mistakes to escape
Inadequate evidence of relationship: Make sure your documents cover all four categories.
Applying while offshore: You must be in Australia to apply for the 820.
Poorly written personal statements: Ensure your partner and applicant statements align and tell your story clearly.
Undevance of legal aid: Partner visa is complex talking to a registered migration agent.
final thoughts
Partner Visa (Subclass 820) offers couples a meaningful opportunity to create life together in Australia. However, the process can be emotionally and administratively challenging. The key to success lies perfectly in documentation, real intentions and clear understanding of the process.
