🌟 What Is the Partner Visa (Subclass 820)?
Partner Visa, under Subclass 820, is a temporary visa that lets you stay in Australia if you got married to or in a de facto relationship with an:
- Australian citizen
- Australian permanent resident
- Eligible New Zealand citizen
It’s the first step toward getting a permanent partner visa (Subclass 801) later.
You must be inside Australia when you apply and when your visa is approved.
✅ Who Can Apply? (Basic Rules)
You can apply if:
- You are married or in a loving relationship, that is, living together for at least 12 months or registered
- Your partner is your sponsor and is an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen
- You are both 18 years or older
- You are in Australia now
- You meet health and character requirements
- You don’t have a history of visa problems (unless waived)
🔍 What Will Immigration Look For?
They want to see that your relationship is genuine and ongoing.
They’ll check:
- Money matters – Do you share bank accounts or bills?
- Living situation – Do you live together and share chores?
- Social life – Do others know about your relationship?
- Plans – Are you committed long-term?
💡 The more honest and clear evidence you provide, the better.
📋 Step-by-Step – How to Apply
Step 1: Check if You’re Eligible
Make sure you and your partner meet the requirements.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need to provide ID, proof of relationship, health checks, and police certificates.
Step 3: Apply Online
You are required to create an ImmiAccount and submit your visa application.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay online when you submit your form.
Step 5: Bridging Visa
You’ll likely be granted a Bridging Visa A that legally allows you to stay in Australia while you wait.
Step 6: Health & Character Checks
You may be asked to undergo a medical examination and provide police checks.
Step 7: Wait for Your Visa Decision
Once approved, you’ll get the Subclass 820 temporary visa.
📝 What Documents Do You Need?
🔹 About You (the applicant)
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Visa grant notice (if you’re already on another visa)
- Police clearance
- Health exam results
🔹 About Your Relationship
- Marriage certificate or de facto proof
- Shared bills or lease
- Photos together
- Social media or messages
- Statements from family or friends
🔹 From Your Partner (the sponsor)
- Passport or proof of citizenship
- Sponsor form (Form 40SP)
- Identity documents
💰 Cost & Time
| What | How Much |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | AUD 8,850 |
| Extra adult (18+) | AUD 4,430 |
| Child under 18 | AUD 2,215 |
🕒 How Long Does It Take?
- Temporary visa (820): Usually 12 to 24 months
- Permanent visa (801): Around 2 years after 820
💳 Do You Need to Show money?
There’s no official “money proof” needed, but:
- You should be able to support yourself in Australia
- Show that you share financial responsibilities as a couple
- Having a joint account helps your case
🎁 What You Can Do on This Visa
- Stay in Australia
- Work and study freely
- Use Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
- Apply for permanent residency later (Subclass 801)
- Add your kids (if any) to your application
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
- It is a temporary visa, not permanent
- It can take a long time to process
- You must be inside Australia when applying
- It’s a costly visa
- You can’t travel unless you get a Bridging Visa B
📞 Helpful Links & Contact Details
- Official site: homeaffairs.gov.au
- Apply here: ImmiAccount
- Connect with a Trusted Immigration Consultant: Visas Adviser
- Contact Details: +91 8744852222; info@VisasAdviser.com
📂 Sample Document Ideas
| Type | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Relationship Story | A letter explaining how you met and your journey |
| Photos | Together at events, home, travel, family gatherings |
| Joint Finances | Bank statements, shared rent, or utility bills |
| Letters of Support | From friends or family (use Form 888) |
🧾 Tip: Keep everything neat, clear, and labelled with your names.
❓ Quick FAQs
Q: Can I add my children to the visa?
👉 Yes! You can include dependent kids in your application.
Q: Can I travel while waiting?
👉 Only if you apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
Q: Do I need to apply for 801 later?
👉 No. It’s already included. You’ll be assessed for it about 2 years after your 820 is granted.
Q: Can I apply while on a visitor visa?
👉 Yes, but check if there’s a “No Further Stay” condition on your visa.
💡 Expert Tips
- 🧾 Be honest – Don’t fake documents. It could lead to a refusal or ban.
- 📅 Apply early – It can take a year or more to process.
- 📂 Organise your documents – Clear file names help.
- 📣 Form 888 is essential – Get friends or family to confirm your relationship.
- 💬 Ask for help – A migration agent can guide you if you’re unsure.
💕 Final Thoughts
The Partner Visa (Subclass 820) lets you build your life in Australia with your loved one. Yes, it takes time, effort, and money — but it’s worth it if your relationship is strong and genuine.
Stay honest, be organised, and show real proof of your relationship — and you’ll be well on your way to building your future together in Australia.