Subclass 820 / 801 – Partner Visa (Onshore)
Live in Australia with Your Partner and Transition to Permanent Residency
The Subclass 820/801 Partner Visa is for people already in Australia who are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It allows partners to stay temporarily (820) while applying for permanent residency (801).
What You Can Do with These Visas
The Subclass 820 visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily while your permanent Subclass 801 visa is processed. Once granted, the Subclass 801 visa provides permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, study, sponsor family, and apply for citizenship.
Subclass 820 – Temporary Partner Visa
Live in Australia temporarily while awaiting the permanent visa.
Work and study without restrictions.
Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system (once eligible).
Subclass 801 – Permanent Partner Visa
Live in Australia permanently with full rights.
Work and study in Australia without limitations.
Sponsor eligible relatives to come to Australia.
Apply for Australian citizenship when you meet the residency and other eligibility requirements.
Key Features
Subclass 820 – Temporary Partner Visa (Onshore)
Allows you to stay in Australia while awaiting a decision on your permanent visa.
Enables work and study rights.
Access to Medicare (public healthcare).
Subclass 801 – Permanent Partner Visa
Granted after a two-year waiting period from the 820 application date.
Allows indefinite stay, access to benefits, and a pathway to citizenship.
Who Is Eligible for the Subclass 820/801 – Partner Visa ?
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Must be in Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted. |
| Relationship Status | Married to or in a de facto relationship with an eligible partner. |
| Genuine Relationship | Must provide evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship. |
| Health and Character Requirements | Must meet Australian health and character standards. |
Steps to Studying in Australia
Follow these essential steps to begin your journey toward studying in Australia, from initial preparations to receiving an invitation to apply for your student visa:
Check Eligibility
Ensure you are lawfully in Australia and in a genuine relationship.
Gather Documentation
Relationship proof, personal identification, police and medical checks.
Apply Online via ImmiAccount
Submit your Subclass 820/801 application with all supporting documents.
Receive Bridging Visa (if applicable)
If your current visa expires, you’ll receive a Bridging Visa to stay lawfully in Australia.
Progress to Subclass 801 (Permanent)
Two years after lodging the 820 application, provide updated evidence of your ongoing relationship for the 801 stage.
Need help with the process? Reach out to our Registered Migration Agents at info@openpathways.com or fill in the online enquiry form for a free eligibility check.
Visa Application Fees (Including GST)
| Visa Subclass | Fee (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 820 & 801 (Combined) | 8,850 | Paid at the time of applying for the Subclass 820 temporary visa. |
Processing Time
| Visa Type | 75% of Applications | 90% of Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 820 | ~22 months | ~31 months |
| Subclass 801 | ~12 months (after 820) | ~20 months (after 820) |
Processing may vary based on individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if my current visa is about to expire?
Yes, applying for Subclass 820 will typically grant you a Bridging Visa so you can remain in Australia lawfully while your application is processed.
How long must we be in a relationship?
Generally at least 12 months before applying (unless married or your relationship is registered in an Australian state).
Do I need to stay with my partner during the whole process?
Yes, your relationship must be genuine and continuing throughout both visa stages.
Can I work or study while on the Subclass 820?
Yes, the 820 visa provides full work and study rights.
Can children be included?
Yes, dependent children can be added to the application.
Need help with your onshore partner visa?
Our migration experts can guide you through the 820/801 process, help prepare solid relationship evidence, and ensure smooth transitions to permanent residency.
