Partner Visa
(Subclass 820/801)
About the Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)
Secure Your Future Together with Expert Partner Visa Advice from Maison Migration Services
Are you married or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen? The Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) provides a pathway for you to live and build a future with your partner in Australia. At Maison Migration Services, we specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of the Partner Visa process, ensuring a smooth and successful application.
Our MARA-registered migration agents are committed to providing you with personalized guidance for both the temporary and permanent stages of the Partner Visa process. We help you prepare your application, ensuring all eligibility criteria are met and all necessary documentation is in place.
What is the Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)?
The Partner Visa (subclass 820 and 801) is designed for the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The subclass 820 visa is a temporary visa that allows you to live in Australia while your permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801) is being processed.
- Subclass 820 (Temporary Partner Visa): Grants temporary residence until you transition to a permanent partner visa.
- Subclass 801 (Permanent Partner Visa): This visa provides permanent residency after your temporary visa is granted and you meet the eligibility conditions.
- Explore more details on the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801)
Partner Visa Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801), you must meet the following criteria:
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Take the first step toward your goals. Book a personalized, confidential consultation today to discuss your visa needs and get a clear roadmap from our experts.
Documents & Evidence Required for Partner Visa
To ensure your application is successful, you’ll need to provide comprehensive evidence of your relationship. This includes, but is not limited to:
Tips for a Successful Partner Visa Application
- Provide Complete and Detailed Evidence: Ensure all documents support the authenticity and ongoing nature of your relationship. The more comprehensive the evidence, the higher the chances of success.
- Start Early: Given the detailed nature of the Partner Visa application, starting early gives you more time to gather the necessary evidence and avoid last-minute stress.
- Be Honest and Transparent: Answer all questions truthfully and don’t omit any details that may be critical to your application. Australian authorities value transparency.
- Prepare for Health & Character Checks: These checks are often time-sensitive. Begin health assessments and apply for police clearances well in advance to prevent delays.
Processing Time for the Partner Visa
The processing time for the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) can vary based on several factors such as:
- The completeness of your application
- The volume of visa applications at the time
- The processing of supporting documents
For an estimate on processing times, refer to the Global Visa Processing Times.
Why Choose Maison Migration Services?
At Maison Migration Services, we provide expert assistance to help you secure your Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) successfully:
- MARA-registered migration agents with extensive expertise in partner visa applications
- Tailored advice and guidance through the entire application process
- Fast-track application processing to avoid unnecessary delays
- No hidden fees — we believe in transparency and provide affordable services
- High success rate, backed by positive client testimonials
- End-to-end visa management, from eligibility check to visa approval
Get Started with Your Partner Visa Application Today!
Ready to live in Australia with your partner? Let Maison Migration Services guide you through the Partner Visa (subclass 820/801) application process with ease
Contact us today for a free eligibility consultation and take the first step toward permanent residency in Australia with your loved one.
Ready to Get Started?
Take the first step toward your goals. Book a personalized, confidential consultation today to discuss your visa needs and get a clear roadmap from our experts.
FAQ (Partner Visa)
An Australian Partner Visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live, work and study in Australia. According to migration experts at Maison Migration Services, the partner visa is one of the most common pathways to Australian permanent residency.
There are two main types of Partner Visa Australia:
• Subclass 820 / 801 Partner Visa - applied for inside Australia (onshore)
• Subclass 309 / 100 Partner Visa - applied for outside Australia (offshore)
Both visa streams eventually lead to Australian permanent residency.
You may be eligible for an Australian Partner Visa if you:
• Are married to or in a de facto relationship with an eligible sponsor
• Are in a genuine and ongoing relationship
• Meet health and character requirements
• Provide strong relationship evidence
Migration specialists at Maison Migration Services help applicants assess eligibility before applying.
No. Many applicants apply as de facto partners. The Department of Home Affairs recognises both married couples and de facto relationships for partner visa applications.
Yes. A Partner Visa Australia requires an eligible sponsor who is:
• An Australian citizen
• An Australian permanent resident
• An eligible New Zealand citizen
Yes, in many cases you can apply for a Subclass 820 Partner Visa while holding a visitor visa. However, some visas have a No Further Stay condition, which may restrict applications.
After submitting a Subclass 820 partner visa application, applicants usually receive a Bridging Visa A, allowing them to stay in Australia while their visa is processed.
You can check your partner visa application status through your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Migration advisors at Maison Migration Services can also assist applicants in monitoring their visa progress.
The Partner Visa processing time in Australia generally ranges between 8and 24 months, depending on processing times at the time of application, documents submitted.
The Subclass 820 Partner Visa processing time typically ranges from 10 to 24 months.
The Subclass 309 Partner Visa usually takes 12 to 24 months to process for most applicants.
Permanent residency through Subclass 801 or Subclass 100 is usually assessed about two years after the original partner visa application date.
If you applied onshore, your Bridging Visa allows you to remain lawfully in Australia while waiting for a decision.
In most cases, couples must show they live together or have lived together in a genuine relationship. However, temporary separation for work or travel may be acceptable.
A de facto relationship means you and your partner live together in a genuine domestic relationship. Usually couples must have lived together for at least 12 months, unless the relationship is officially registered in Australia.
Yes. Australia recognises both same-sex marriages and de facto relationships, which means same-sex couples are fully eligible to apply for a Partner Visa in Australia. Applicants in same-sex relationships can apply under the same visa categories as opposite-sex couples, including the Subclass 820/801 (onshore) and Subclass 309/100 (offshore) partner visas.
To qualify, the relationship must meet the same legal requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. This generally includes demonstrating that the relationship is genuine and ongoing, showing evidence of shared finances, living arrangements, social recognition of the relationship, and long-term commitment.
Many same-sex couples successfully obtain partner visas each year. Maison Migration Services has helped many same-sex couples navigate the process and prepare strong partner visa applications, ensuring their relationships are clearly documented and supported with the right evidence.
Yes. Both the visa applicant and sponsoring partner must be at least 18 years old.
Yes. Receiving Centrelink payments does not automatically disqualify a sponsor, but the sponsor must still meet their legal sponsorship obligations.
Yes. Australian permanent residents can sponsor their spouse or de facto partner.
Not necessarily. DHA authorities focus on whether the relationship is genuine, ongoing and committed, not simply whether the couple is married.
- Most Australian Partner Visas are granted in two stages:
- Temporary visa (Subclass 820 or Subclass 309)
- Permanent visa (Subclass 801 or Subclass 100)
There is no official fast-track process, but submitting a complete and well-prepared application can help avoid delays.
Migration professionals at Maison Migration Services help applicants prepare strong applications to reduce processing delays.
Yes. Applicants on a Bridging Visa linked to a partner visa application usually have full work rights in Australia.
If you applied onshore, you must obtain a Bridging Visa B before leaving Australia to ensure you can return.
Yes. Partner visa applicants and holders can study in Australia, although international tuition fees may apply.
Yes. Dependent children can be included in a partner visa application if they meet eligibility requirements.
Evidence & Documents
Common Australian Partner Visa documents include:
- Passports and identity documents
- Marriage certificate or proof of de facto relationship
- Police clearance certificates
- Health examination results
- Relationship evidence
The Department of Home Affairs assesses four relationship factors:
- Financial aspects
Nature of the household
Social recognition of the relationship
Commitment to each other
There is no official number, but applicants often submit 10-20 photos showing their relationship over time.
Yes. All partner visa applicants must complete medical examinations and police checks.
No. A joint account helps demonstrate financial commitment but is not mandatory.
Yes. Any document not written in English must be translated by an accredited translator.
Applicants must provide at least two Form 888 declarations from Australian citizens or permanent residents who know the relationship.
Cost & Fees
The Department of Home Affairs fee for lodging a partner visa is approximately AUD $9,365 + cc surcharge for the primary applicant.
The cost includes both the temporary visa stage and the permanent residency stage, making it one of the most comprehensive migration pathways.
No. The initial application fee generally covers both the temporary and permanent partner visa stages.
Risk and Refusals Questions
If the relationship ends before permanent residency is granted, the visa may be affected. However, special provisions may apply in cases involving family violence or children.
Common reasons for refusal include:
Insufficient relationship evidence
Inconsistent information
Failure to meet health or character requirements
Incomplete documentation
Seeking professional guidance from Maison Migration Services can significantly reduce the risk of refusal by ensuring applications meet Australian Partner Visa requirements.
Yes, it may still be possible to apply for a Subclass 820 Partner Visa even if your visa has expired. However, Schedule 3 requirements may apply, and applicants must provide detailed evidence explaining why the visa should still be granted.
These applications require careful preparation to demonstrate compelling and compassionate circumstances.
Some couples applying for a Partner Visa Australia may have spent long periods apart due to visa restrictions, work commitments, or travel limitations.
In these cases, applicants must provide strong evidence showing:
Ongoing communication
Travel history and visits
Financial support between partners
Commitment to the relationship
Migration specialists at Maison Migration Services assist couples in compiling strong relationship evidence even when partners have lived apart.
Complex migration matters require experience, detailed legal knowledge, and strategic preparation.
With decades of combined migration experience, Maison Migration Services assists clients with challenging Partner Visa situations, including:
Schedule 3 partner visa applications
Partner visa applications for unlawful applicants
Cases involving previous visa refusals or cancellations
Preparing strong compelling circumstances submissions
Handling complex relationship evidence
Assisting with appeals and tribunal reviews
By carefully analysing each case and preparing detailed submissions, Maison Migration Services helps clients present the strongest possible application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Evidence for family violence provisions may include:
Judicial evidence
Court orders such as restraining orders or protection orders
Criminal convictions against the abusive partner
Police reports
Non-judicial evidence
If court orders are not available, applicants may provide:
Reports from doctors or psychologists
Statements from social workers or counsellors
Evidence from domestic violence support services
Two or more independent professional reports are usually required.
In many cases, yes. If you applied for a Partner Visa Australia and meet the family violence provisions, you may still remain in Australia and continue the visa process.
Each case is assessed individually, so professional advice is strongly recommended.
Domestic violence cases involving Australian Partner Visas can be complex and emotionally challenging.
With extensive migration experience, Maison Migration Services assists clients with:
Understanding family violence provisions under migration law
Preparing confidential evidence and documentation
Communicating with the Department of Home Affairs
Ensuring the visa application continues even if the relationship has ended
Protecting the applicant’s rights and immigration status
Yes. If your Partner Visa Australia application (such as the Subclass 820 Partner Visa or Subclass 309 Partner Visa) is refused, you may have the right to appeal the decision through the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). Migration advisors at Maison Migration Services can help applicants understand their appeal options and prepare a strong case for review.
In most cases, if the sponsoring partner is an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, the refusal decision may be eligible for merits review by the Administrative Review Tribunal. This process allows the tribunal to reassess the Department of Home Affairs’ decision and review all evidence related to your Partner Visa Australia application.
Important points about partner visa appeals
You must lodge the appeal within the timeframe specified in the refusal letter, usually 28 days if you are in Australia.
The tribunal will review the facts, documents, and circumstances of your relationship and visa application.
You may be asked to provide additional relationship evidence or attend a hearing.
During the appeal process, you may be able to remain in Australia on a Bridging Visa.
Common reasons why partner visa applications are refused include insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship, incomplete documentation, or inconsistencies in the application. Seeking professional advice early can significantly improve your chances of success.
The migration professionals at Maison Migration Services assist clients with partner visa refusals, tribunal appeals, and preparing strong supporting evidence to help achieve the best possible outcome.
Yes. Even after being granted Australian permanent residency through a Partner Visa (Subclass 801 or Subclass 100), the visa can still be cancelled by the Department of Home Affairs under certain circumstances.
A permanent Partner Visa Australia may be cancelled if the visa holder:
Provided false or misleading information in their visa application
Submitted fraudulent documents or incorrect relationship evidence
Breached Australian visa conditions or migration laws
Engaged in serious criminal activity or failed the character test
Was involved in immigration fraud or misrepresentation
Visa cancellation is a serious matter and may affect your ability to remain in Australia or apply for visas in the future.
If you are concerned about a potential Partner Visa cancellation in Australia, it is important to seek professional advice as soon as possible. In many cases, there may be limited opportunities to respond to the Department or appeal the decision, and strict deadlines apply.
Migration specialists at Maison Migration Services can assist with understanding your legal options, preparing responses to the Department of Home Affairs, and advising on possible review or appeal pathways where available. Prompt advice is essential to protect your visa status and rights in Australia.
Previous visa refusals or cancellations can make a Partner Visa application more complex, but they do not always prevent approval.
In these cases, the Department of Home Affairs may closely examine:
Your immigration history
Whether false information was provided previously
Whether you meet the character requirements
Whether your relationship is genuine
Migration professionals at Maison Migration Services can review your immigration history and advise on the best strategy before lodging a new application.
Applicants who are unlawful in Australia may still be able to apply for a Partner Visa Australia, but Schedule 3 requirements usually apply.
In such cases, it is essential to provide:
Evidence of a genuine relationship
Detailed explanations about visa status
Supporting documents demonstrating compelling reasons
These applications often require careful legal preparation.
Australian migration law can be highly technical, particularly when dealing with Schedule 3 requirements, visa cancellations, or unlawful status.
Seeking professional guidance can help:
Avoid common mistakes that lead to visa refusals
Ensure the application meets all legal requirements
Prepare persuasive submissions explaining complex circumstances
Improve the chances of a successful outcome
The migration team at Maison Migration Services provides tailored advice and strategic support for applicants facing complex Partner Visa situations in Australia.
If you are experiencing domestic or family violence while on a Partner Visa Australia, you may still be able to obtain permanent residency even if the relationship has ended.
Australian migration law includes family violence provisions designed to protect victims who applied for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820 or Subclass 309) in good faith. These provisions allow eligible applicants to continue their visa process if they can show they experienced domestic or family violence during the relationship.
Migration professionals at Maison Migration Services can help applicants understand their rights and prepare the necessary evidence.
Under Australian migration law, family violence can include:
Physical abuse or assault
Sexual abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse
Financial control or coercion
Threatening behaviour or intimidation
Social isolation or controlling actions
These behaviours may qualify under the family violence provisions for Partner Visa Australia.
Yes. If the relationship ended due to family violence, the Department of Home Affairs may still grant the permanent partner visa (Subclass 801 or Subclass 100) even if you are no longer in the relationship.
However, you must provide evidence demonstrating that family violence occurred during the relationship.