If you’re in a committed relationship or married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a partner visa in Australia. This visa allows couples to live together in Australia and is designed to support genuine, long-term relationships. To improve your chances of a successful application, it’s important to understand the requirements, provide strong evidence of your relationship, and meet the legal criteria.
Difference Between Partner Visa Subclass 820 and Subclass 801
Australia’s Partner Visa pathway involves two stages: the Subclass 820 (temporary visa) and the Subclass 801 (permanent visa). Both visas are for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who wish to live in Australia.
Partner Visa Subclass 820 (Temporary)
This is the first step in the partner visa process. It allows you to:
- Live, work, and study in Australia
- Travel freely in and out of the country
- Access Medicare
This visa is suitable for individuals who are married or in a de facto relationship (usually for at least 12 months) and are living together.
Partner Visa Subclass 801 (Permanent)
The 801 visa is granted after your relationship has been assessed as genuine and continuing over time, typically two years after the 820 visa is lodged. Once granted, this visa allows:
- Permanent residency in Australia
- Access to government services
- The ability to apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
Partner Visa Australia: Key Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a partner or spouse visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Relationship: You must be legally married or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. You’ll need to show you’ve lived together for at least 12 months (unless married).
- Age: Both partners must be over 18 years old.
- Character and Health: Applicants must meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Language: Although there’s no formal English requirement at the time of application, functional English may be necessary for citizenship later.
- Application Process: You can apply online via your ImmiAccount. If applying from outside Australia, you must be legally married or in a proven de facto relationship.
Partner Visa Australia Checklist
To apply for the partner visa, you will need to gather various supporting documents:
Documents for the Applicant
- Completed visa application form
- Passport and birth certificate
- Relationship evidence (e.g. photos, joint travel, messages)
- Health and character documents (police checks, medical reports)
Documents for the Sponsor
- Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency
- Employment history or income proof (past 2 years)
- Police clearance certificate (Australian Federal Police)
- Statutory declaration about your relationship
- Identification documents
- Any evidence of a name change (if applicable)
Partner Visa Processing Time
According to the Department of Home Affairs, the average processing time for the onshore Subclass 820 visa is between 23 to 30 months. Processing times may vary depending on your circumstances and the completeness of your application.
Partner Visa Australia Cost
Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801): AUD 9,095 + credit card surcharge
- Additional applicant (over 18): AUD 4,550
- Additional applicant (under 18): AUD 2,275
- Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300): AUD 1,515
- Additional partner visa fee (when converting to partner visa): AUD 4,430 (over 18) / AUD 2,215 (under 18)
Documents Required for Spouse Visa Australia
To support your application, you’ll also need:
Personal and Relationship Documents
- Valid passports
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Child birth certificates (if applicable)
- Evidence of shared finances (joint bank account, property lease)
- Travel history together (joint holidays)
- Form 80 (personal particulars)
Health and Character
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical reports from approved panel physicians
Financial Documents
- Tax returns
- Employment proof
- Business registration papers (if self-employed)
Conclusion
Applying for a partner visa in Australia can be a complex process, but with the right preparation and understanding of the requirements, it’s completely manageable. To ensure everything is completed accurately and to boost your chances of success, it’s wise to consult a registered migration agent in Perth or your local area. They can guide you through each step, help gather supporting documents, and provide expert advice tailored to your situation.
FAQ
1. How long does a partner visa last in Australia?
The Partner Visa Subclass 820 is temporary and remains valid until the Department of Home Affairs makes a decision on the permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801). Once granted, the Subclass 801 visa provides indefinite residency in Australia, allowing the holder to live, work, and stay in the country permanently.
2. Are you allowed to work on a partner visa in Australia?
Yes, holders of both the temporary (Subclass 820) and permanent (Subclass 801) Partner Visas have full work rights in Australia. This means you can legally work for any employer without restrictions. The same applies to holders of the Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300).
3. Can I apply for a partner visa while in Australia?
Yes, you can apply for an onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) while in Australia, provided you hold a valid visa and meet eligibility requirements such as a genuine relationship and cohabitation.
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