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Amit Taya (Perth): +61 426 488 909 | Harmandeep Kaur (Adelaide): +61 8 8120 4199
Amit Taya (Perth): +61 426 488 909 | Harmandeep Kaur (Adelaide): +61 8 8120 4199
Application of the partner visa (Subclass 820 & 801) can be confusing because it includes two separate visa stages. Many applicants mistakenly believe that they must choose between the subclass 820 and the subclass 801 visa. However, both of them are part of the same migration pathway for partners already living in Australia.
This guide explains the subclass 820 and subclass 801 visas in simple terms so you can have a clear idea of what each visa does and how they are connected. We’ll also discuss why the distinction matters for couples’ future in Australia.
Both of these visas allow you to live temporarily or permanently in Australia if you are the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. Here’s a quick overview of both visa types:
The partner visa subclass 820 allows you to temporarily stay in Australia until your permanent Partner visa (subclass 801) application is finalised or you withdraw your application. Some of the main factors associated with this visa include:
The subclass 801 is the second stage of your partner visa, where you apply for permanent residence. To apply for this visa, you must hold a temporary Partner visa (subclass 820) or a Dependent Child visa (subclass 445). This visa allows you to:
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To qualify for the 801/820 spouse visa, applicants must meet several relationship, legal, health and character requirements. The main eligibility criteria of this partner visa are as follows:
The partnership visa 820/801 offers a pathway for eligible couples to build a long-term life together in Australia. Besides allowing couples to stay together, this visa brings the following benefits:
There are multiple types of documents required for the partner visa 820 and 801. Some of them include:
Identity Documents
Character Verification Documents
Proof of Genuine Relationship
Read More: Top Tips to Boost Your Australia PR Points Score
The onshore application of the Partner Visa comprises two stages: the subclass 820 (temporary) stage and the subclass 801 (permanent) stage. Here is how each stage is processed:
The first step is applying for the combined Partner Visa. At the time of application, applicants must provide detailed evidence of a genuine relationship between partners along with the necessary visa documents. Once the Subclass 820 visa is approved, the applicant can generally:
The second stage is applying for the partner visa subclass 801 permanent Partner Visa application. In most cases, applicants become eligible for assessment approximately two years after the original combined application.
Once approved, the applicant receives permanent resident status in Australia.
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As of 2026, the government application charge for most main applicants of partner visa 820 or 801 starts from approximately AUD 9,365. This payment is generally made when the application is lodged. The table below outlines the standard government application fees for the onshore partner visa pathway:
| Applicant Type | Estimated Government Fee |
| Main applicant | AUD 9,365 |
| Additional applicant aged 18 or over | AUD 4,685 |
| Additional applicant under 18 | AUD 2,345 |
*The visa cost is subject to change as per the update from the Department of Home Affairs of Australia. The current prices are updated till May 2026.
Besides the government application charges, you should also keep a financial buffer for:
The processing time for the partner visa depends on the application complexity and the volume of applications received by the Australian immigration authorities. However, the Department of Home Affairs offers a visa processing time guide for applications that have been recently approved. Here is a quick look at the close estimate of the subclass 801 and 820 visa processing times:
| Visa Type | 50% of the Application | 90% of the Application |
| Partner visa (subclass 820) | 19 Months | 24 Months |
| Partner visa (subclass 801) | 5 Months | 17 Months |
*The above estimate is based on recent application approvals till May 2026. To know more, you may consult an immigration agent.
The application for the partner visa can be a document-heavy process. A regional immigration expert, like an immigration agent Adelaide, can help you understand visa requirements, organise supporting documents and manage the application process more effectively. They may also help you with:
Must Read: How to Navigate the 482 Subsequent Entrant Visa?
The partner visa provides a structured pathway for couples planning to live and build a future in Australia. This visa allows the spouse or de facto partners of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to temporarily/permanently live in Australia. The application process includes meeting all eligibility checks, submitting the right documents and chronologically applying for visas. You can also take help from an immigration consultant for a smooth application.
Yes, once the subclass 820 temporary visa is granted, you can generally work and study in Australia without restrictions.
Planning ahead for housing, healthcare, transportation, and everyday living expenses can make the transition smoother. Creating a financial buffer is especially important during the initial settlement period.
Yes, de facto partners can also apply for the partner subclass 801 or 820 visa if they meet the relationship requirements.
Yes, dependent children can usually be included in the application if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Access to Medicare depends on your visa stage and approval status. Temporary visa holders may be eligible once they meet Medicare registration requirements.
