If you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and you’re already living in Australia, the Onshore Partner Visa Australia pathway may be the right option for you. Known officially as the Partner visa (subclass 820 and 801), this two-stage visa allows eligible applicants to live, work, and eventually settle permanently in Australia with their partner. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the 820 and 801 visas, including eligibility, application process, costs, and processing times.
What Is the Onshore Partner Visa (820/801)?
The Onshore Partner Visa Australia is actually a combination of two visas applied for together in a single application:
- Subclass 820 (Partner Temporary visa): This is the first stage, granted while your permanent visa application is being assessed. It allows you to live and work in Australia without restrictions while you wait.
- Subclass 801 (Partner Permanent visa): This is the second and final stage, generally granted around two years after you lodge your application, provided your relationship remains genuine and ongoing.
Because both visas are lodged as one application, you don’t need to submit two separate applications – the Department of Home Affairs automatically assesses you for the 801 visa once the required time has passed and your relationship is confirmed to be continuing.
Who Can Apply for the Partner Visa 820/801?
To be eligible for the onshore Partner visa, you must:
- Be in Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted
- Be married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
- Be able to demonstrate a genuine and continuing relationship
- Meet health and character requirements
- Have a sponsor who is willing to complete the partner sponsorship obligations
If you are in a de facto relationship, you generally need to show that you and your partner have lived together for at least 12 months before applying, unless you’re exempt (for example, if the relationship is registered with a state or territory relationship registry).
Evidence Required for a Genuine Relationship
One of the most critical parts of any Onshore Partner Visa Australia application is proving your relationship is genuine. The Department of Home Affairs assesses this across four key categories:
- Financial aspects – joint bank accounts, shared bills, or financial support
- Nature of the household – shared responsibilities, joint lease or mortgage
- Social context – how you present as a couple to friends, family, and community
- Commitment – length of relationship, future plans, and intentions
Strong, well-organised evidence across all four categories significantly improves your chances of a smooth visa grant.
The Application Process for the 820 and 801 Visa
Applying for the Partner visa 820/801 generally involves the following steps:
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Collect identity documents, relationship evidence, police clearances, and health examination results.
Step 2: Sponsorship Application
Your partner (the sponsor) must submit a separate sponsorship application alongside your visa application.
Step 3: Lodge the Combined 820/801 Application
Submit your application online through ImmiAccount, along with the visa application charge.
Step 4: Bridging Visa Grant
Once lodged, you’ll typically be granted a Bridging Visa A, allowing you to remain in Australia legally while your 820 visa is processed.
Step 5: 820 Visa Grant
After initial assessment, the temporary Partner visa (820) is usually granted, giving you full work and study rights.
Step 6: 801 Visa Assessment
Around two years after your original application date, the Department will contact you to confirm your relationship is still genuine before granting the permanent 801 visa.
Processing Times and Costs
Processing times for the Onshore Partner Visa Australia vary depending on your individual circumstances, the completeness of your application, and current departmental workloads. As a general guide:
- The 820 visa stage can take anywhere from several months to over a year
- The 801 visa stage is typically assessed around the two-year mark from your original lodgement
The visa application charge for the combined 820/801 application is a significant cost, and additional charges may apply for additional applicants, such as dependent children.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants face delays or refusals due to avoidable errors, including:
- Submitting insufficient or inconsistent relationship evidence
- Missing health examinations or police checks
- Errors or omissions in the sponsorship application
- Failing to notify the Department of address or circumstance changes
Working with a registered migration agent or education and migration consultancy can help you avoid these pitfalls and present the strongest possible case.
Why Choose Professional Guidance for Your Partner Visa Journey
Navigating the Onshore Partner Visa Australia process can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing study, work, or family commitments. At Pathway Education, we help applicants understand every stage of the 820 and 801 visa process – from gathering the right evidence to lodging a complete and compelling application. Our team stays up to date with the latest Department of Home Affairs requirements, ensuring you avoid common mistakes that could delay your visa grant.
Final Thoughts
The Onshore Partner Visa Australia (820 & 801) pathway offers a genuine and structured route for couples wanting to build their future together in Australia. While the process requires patience, thorough documentation, and a clear understanding of eligibility criteria, the reward is well worth it: permanent residency and the ability to call Australia home alongside your partner.
If you’re considering applying for a Partner visa, start early, keep detailed records of your relationship, and seek professional advice where needed to ensure your application has the best possible chance of success.
FAQs
1. How long does the Onshore Partner Visa Australia take to process?
Ans: The 820 stage can take several months to over a year, while the 801 permanent visa is generally assessed around two years after your original application date.
2. Can I work in Australia on a 820 visa?
Ans: Yes, once granted, the 820 visa gives you full work and study rights in Australia while you wait for your permanent 801 visa to be assessed.
3. Do I need to be married to apply for the Partner visa?
Ans: No, you can apply if you’re married or in a genuine de facto relationship, though de facto couples usually need 12 months of cohabitation first.
4. What happens if my relationship ends during processing?
Ans: You must notify the Department of Home Affairs immediately, as this can affect your visa outcome, though exceptions exist for family violence or other special circumstances.
5. Can I include my children in my Partner visa application?
Ans: Yes, dependent children can usually be included as additional applicants on your 820/801 application, though this adds extra costs to the overall visa fee.
Also Read: Partner Visa Processing Times in Australia: What to Expect & How to Avoid Delays
