The 820 801 visa pathway lets partners live together in Australia. It is for partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents. This visa has two stages. You apply once. The decision is made in two parts. First, you receive a temporary visa. Later, you may receive permanent residency. This guide explains the 820 801 visa in clear and simple terms.

Table of Contents

What Is the 820 801 Visa?

The 820 801 visa is a combined partner visa. Both visas are included in one application. You do not need to apply twice.

Partner Visa 820 (Temporary)

The Partner Visa 820 is the first stage.

It allows you to

  • Live in Australia
  • Work full time
  • Study without limit
  • Use Medicare

You must apply for this visa inside Australia.

Partner Visa 801 (Permanent)

The Partner Visa 801 is the second stage.

It allows you to

  • Become a permanent resident
  • Stay in Australia long term
  • Apply for citizenship late

This visa is checked after the temporary stage.

One Application for Both Visas

You lodge one application for both the 820 and 801 visas.

👉 For full eligibility details, see

Partner Visa 820: Complete 2025 Guide to Eligibility Criteria, Document Requirements, and Application Process

Who Can Apply for the 820 801 Visa?

Both the applicant and the sponsor must meet visa rules.

Relationship Requirements

You must be

  • Married
  • In a de facto relationship

Your relationship must be

  • Genuine
  • Ongoing
  • Exclusive

The relationship must still exist when the visa is decided.

De Facto Partner Rule

Most de facto couples must show

  • At least 12 months together

Some couples may qualify for an exemption.

Your sponsor must

  • Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • Be 18 years or older
  • Meet character rule

The sponsor must agree to support you.

Step-by-Step 820 801 Visa Process

Step 1 Prepare Your Documents

You must show evidence of

  • Your relationship
  • Your shared life
  • Your future plan

Strong documents reduce delays.

Step 2 Lodge the Application

You apply for

  • Partner Visa 820
  • Partner Visa 801

This is one combined application

After lodging, you usually receive a bridging visa.

Step 3 Temporary Visa Decision

The Department checks

  • Relationship evidence
  • Health check
  • Police certificate

If approved, the 820 visa is granted.

Step 4 Permanent Visa Decision

After a waiting period, the 801 visa is reviewed. You may need to provide updated documents. If approved, you receive permanent residency.

Documents Needed for the 820 801 Visa

Documents are very important

Financial Evidence

  • Joint bank account
  • Shared bill
  • Lease or mortgage paper

Household Evidence

  • Proof of same address
  • Shared household task

Social Evidence

  • Photos together
  • Statements from friends or family

Commitment Evidence

  • Relationship statement
  • Future plan
  • Call or message record

Clear and matching evidence improves success.

820 801 Visa Processing Time (2025)

Processing time depends on each case and applicants often ask about 820 visa processing times when planning their move and future in Australia.

Partner Visa 820 Time

Most cases take 12 to 24 months.

Delays can occur if documents are missing or incomplete.

Partner Visa 801 Time

This stage is usually checked about 2 years later.

You may be asked to submit updated evidence of your relationship.

Cost of the 820 801 Visa

There is one main government fee.

It covers

  • The temporary vis
  • The permanent vis

Other Costs to Consider

  • Medical check
  • Police certificate
  • Translation fee
  • Migration agent fee

Planning early helps manage costs.

Benefits of the 820 801 Visa

This visa allows you to

  • Work without limit
  • Use Medicare
  • Stay lawfully in Australia
  • Become a permanent resident
  • Apply for citizenship late

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

A visa may be refused if

  • Evidence is weak
  • Information does not match
  • The sponsor is not eligible
  • Health or character issues apply

Good preparation lowers risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work on the 820 801 visa?

Yes. You can work without limits.

Do I need to apply twice?

No. One application covers both visas.

Can I travel while waiting?

Yes, with a valid bridging visa.

Is permanent residency guaranteed?

No. You must meet all rules again.

Does this visa lead to citizenship?

Yes, after meeting residency rules.

Final Thoughts

The 820 801 visa pathway helps couples build a life in Australia. Clear information makes the process easier. Strong evidence gives the best chance of success.

You can contact them to book a consultation, ask questions about partner visas, or get help with your AUS partner visa cost and application process.

📞 Phone: +61 426 628 87
📧 Email: enquire@amaes.com.a
🌐 Website: https://archmigration.com.au/contact-us