The partner visa subclass 820 is a temporary visa that allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia while waiting for permanent residency. This visa is an essential part of the partner visa process and helps couples stay together during what can be a long wait for permanent status. Understanding what is 820 visa, how to apply, and what happens after approval can help you prepare properly and avoid delays.
Applying for the partner visa means you can live, work, and study in Australia legally while your permanent visa is being processed. This visa is only available if you are inside Australia when you apply, making it important to plan carefully. The visa process involves proving that your relationship is genuine and ongoing, which requires collecting evidence and meeting specific requirements.
What Is Partner Visa Subclass 820?
It s a temporary visa that forms the first stage of a two-step process leading to permanent residency through the subclass 801 visa. It allows partners of Australian citizens or residents to stay in Australia while their permanent visa application is considered.
To qualify, you must:
- Be married to or in a de facto relationship with an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Be physically present in Australia when applying.
- Meet health and character requirements.
This visa grants work and study rights and access to Medicare, Australia’s public health system, during the application period.
For the latest details, refer to the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs: Partner visa (subclass 820 and 801).
How to Apply for 820 Visa
Knowing how to apply for 820 visa is critical to a successful application. The process is entirely online and involves several steps.
Step 1: Gather Evidence of Your Relationship
You must show that your relationship is genuine and continuing. The Department looks at financial, social, and household evidence, plus your commitment as a couple. Some examples include:
- Financial Evidence: Joint bank accounts, shared bills, insurance policies.
- Household Evidence: Lease or mortgage agreements, utility bills in both names.
- Social Evidence: Photos together, invitations to events, social media interactions.
- Commitment: Wills, joint plans, or beneficiary documents.
Collecting this evidence early helps avoid delays later.
Step 2: Prepare Personal and Health Documents
You will also need:
- Valid passport for you and citizenship evidence for your partner.
- Police clearance certificates from countries you’ve lived in.
- Health checks as required by Australian law.
These meet health and character requirements.
Step 3: Submit the Application Online
You must apply through your ImmiAccount. This online portal lets you:
- Complete the application forms.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Pay the visa fee (currently AUD9,905 (in June 2025) , but check the latest fee on the official site).
- Track your application status.
Submitting a complete application at this stage is vital.
De Facto Visa Requirements
If you apply under a de facto relationship, you must prove you had committed relationship for at least 12 months before applying. However, exceptions exist, such as if you share a child or have registered your relationship with state govt or have special circumstances.
Key requirements include:
- Commitment relationship for 12 months.
- Evidence of a mutual commitment like shared finances or social activities.
- The relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Supporting documents can include joint rental agreements, utility bills, joint travel records, and photos.
What Happens After 820 Visa Is Granted?
Understanding what happens after 820 visa is granted helps you plan the next steps.
When the temporary visa is approved:
- You receive permission to live in Australia while your permanent partner visa is processed.
- You can work and study without restrictions.
- You have access to Medicare for healthcare.
- You must keep the Department updated about your relationship and personal details.
- You remain in Australia while the Department assesses your eligibility for the permanent partner visa subclass 801.
If your relationship ends, you must inform the Department immediately, as it affects your visa status.
Partner Visa 820 Processing Time
The partner visa 820 processing time varies depending on your application and the Department’s workload. As of May 2025, the average processing time is between 15 to 24 months.
Factors affecting processing time include:
- The completeness of your application.
- How quickly you respond to requests for more information.
- The results of health and character checks.
- Changes in your relationship status.
To avoid delays, provide thorough and honest documentation from the start.
Up-to-date processing times are available on the official website: Visa processing times.
Additional Tips for a Successful Application
Applying for the visa takes care and planning. Here are some practical tips:
- Keep detailed records of your relationship.
- Prepare and organize documents before applying.
- Respond quickly to Department requests.
- Avoid inconsistencies in your application.
Following these tips will help reduce stress and improve your chances of success.
KnN Migration: Helping Couples Settle in Australia
The partner visa subclass 820 plays a crucial role in helping couples remain together in Australia while building a future toward permanent residency. Understanding what is 820 visa and how to apply for 820 visa simplifies the journey and prevents common mistakes. By meeting de facto partner visa requirements, being aware of processing time, you set yourself up for a smoother and more successful application experience.
But you don’t have to pursue this journey alone.
KnN Migration is your trusted partner in the visa process. With a team of registered migration agents who stay up to date with all policy changes and legal requirements, we ensure your application is professionally managed from start to finish. Whether you need help gathering evidence, understanding eligibility, or responding to Department requests, we offer expert guidance, legal insight, and full-service support to help you succeed.
✅ Personalized visa strategy based on your relationship
✅ Up-to-date advice aligned with the latest immigration law
✅ End-to-end application support — from document prep to final decision
✅ Fast response times and personalized attention to detail
Don’t leave something as important as your future to chance. Choose confidence. Choose care. Choose KnN Migration.
📞 Ready to begin? Contact us today and take the next step with expert support by your side.
