Moving to Australia to be with your partner is an exciting step, but navigating the visa application process can be complex. The Subclass 820 Partner Visa allows spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia temporarily while waiting for a permanent partner visa (Subclass 801).
This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step overview of the application process, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and processing times. If you’re planning to apply for the 820 visa, this article will help ensure a smooth and successful application.
What is the 820 Partner Visa?
The Subclass 820 Partner Visa is a temporary visa that allows applicants to live in Australia while awaiting a decision on their permanent partner visa (Subclass 801).
Once granted, the 820 partner visa lets you:
✅ Live, work, and study in Australia.
✅ Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system).
✅ Travel in and out of Australia while your permanent visa is processed.
After a certain period (usually two years from the application date), eligible applicants can apply for the permanent 801 visa, which grants an indefinite stay in Australia.
Who Can Apply for the 820 Partner Visa?
To qualify for the 820 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Relationship Requirements
You must be in a genuine and committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Your relationship can be:
- Married – Legally recognized in Australia.
- De facto – Living together for at least 12 months before applying (unless you have compelling circumstances).
2. Age Requirement
- Both the applicant and sponsor must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
3. Onshore Application
- The partner visa 820 must be applied for while the applicant is inside Australia.
4. Sponsorship by Partner
- Your Australian partner must agree to sponsor you and provide support for at least two years.
5. Health and Character Requirements
- You must undergo a health examination with an approved doctor.
- Provide police clearance certificates from any country you’ve lived in for more than 12 months in the past 10 years.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the 820 Partner Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
A strong application requires extensive documentation. Below is a checklist of key documents you need:
| Category | Examples of Required Documents |
| Proof of Identity | Passport, birth certificate, national ID |
| Relationship Evidence | Photos, joint bank statements, lease agreements, shared bills, social media interactions |
| Character Documents | Police clearance certificates from all relevant countries |
| Health Requirements | Medical examination results from an approved panel physician |
| Financial Evidence | Joint bank accounts, shared loans, proof of financial support |
| Household Evidence | Joint rental agreement, shared responsibilities (e.g., bills, mail at the same address) |
| Social Evidence | Statements from family and friends, wedding invitations, travel records |
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
To apply for the 820 partner visa, you must register for an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website:
🔗 Apply via ImmiAccount
Your ImmiAccount will allow you to:
✅ Fill out the visa application form
✅ Upload supporting documents
✅ Track the progress of your application
Step 3: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Once your ImmiAccount is created, you’ll need to complete the online application. Ensure you provide:
✔ Accurate personal details
✔ Relationship history and evidence
✔ Sponsorship details
Make sure all information aligns with the documents you submit to avoid delays or rejection.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
The 820 visa fee is approximately AUD 9,095.00 (as of 2025). However, fees are subject to change, so check the latest pricing on the Department of Home Affairs website.
💳 Payment methods include:
- Credit/Debit Card
- PayPal
- BPAY
- Direct deposit
Step 5: Submit Biometrics (If Required)
Certain applicants may be asked to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) after submitting their application. You will receive an email with instructions if this is necessary.
Step 6: Wait for Processing & Possible Interview
820 visa processing time vary based on individual circumstances.
| Processing Stage | Average Timeframe |
| 50% of applications processed | 9 months |
| 90% of applications processed | 18 months |
💡 Tip: Ensuring your application is complete and well-documented can help speed up processing.
In some cases, applicants may be asked to attend an interview to verify their relationship. Be prepared to discuss details of your relationship, including:
✔ How you met
✔ Significant events in your relationship
✔ Future plans together
Common Reasons for Visa Delays or Rejection
🔴 Incomplete or inconsistent information – Ensure all details match across documents.
🔴 Insufficient relationship evidence – Provide strong proof of a genuine partnership.
🔴 Failure to meet health or character requirements – Ensure all medical and police checks are completed.
🔴 Incorrect application details – Double-check all forms before submission.
What Happens After the 820 Visa is Granted?
Once you receive the 820 partner visa, you can:
✅ Live, work, and study in Australia
✅ Travel in and out of the country
✅ Access Medicare
After holding the 820 visa for about two years, you may be eligible to apply for the 801 permanent partner visa.
Conclusion
The 820 Partner Visa is an essential step towards securing permanent residency in Australia with your partner. The application process can be complex, but proper preparation and documentation will increase your chances of success.
If you’re planning to apply, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and submit a complete, well-organized application. For more visa tips and updates, browse our blog for expert insights.
🚀 Stay informed & prepare your best application!
