The partner visa 820 is the first stage for couples who want to build their life together in Australia. It is for partners or spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa lets you stay in Australia while your permanent Partner Visa 801 is assessed.

This 2025 guide explains the eligibility rules, required documents, application steps, and ways to strengthen your submission.

Table of Contents

What Is the Partner Visa 820?

The partner visa 820 is a temporary onshore visa. This means you must be inside Australia when applying. Once granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia while waiting for the permanent visa stage.

It is the first step in the 820/801 visa pathway.

To understand this pathway clearly, see Other Related blog:
820/801 Visa Pathway: Step-by-Step Guide From Temporary to Permanent Partner Visa.

Eligibility Requirements for the Partner Visa 820

To qualify, you must meet the criteria for your relationship, your sponsor, and your personal visa status.

Relationship Requirements

You must be in one of the following:

  • A legal marriage
  • A de facto relationship (usually at least 12 months)
  • A committed relationship supported with solid evidence

You must prove that your relationship is genuine and ongoing.

For guidance on evidence, read Other Related blog:

Partnership Visa 820: How to Prove Your Relationship & Strengthen Your Application.

Your sponsor must be:

  • An Australian citizen
  • An Australian permanent resident
  • Or an eligible New Zealand citizen

Sponsors must also satisfy character requirements set by the Australian Government.

Applicant Requirements

You must:

  • Be in Australia at the time of application
  • Hold a valid visa
  • Meet all health and character requirements
  • Not be restricted by any visa conditions that prevent application

Documents Required for the Partner Visa 820

Your partner visa 820 application must include complete and accurate documents. These documents prove your identity, relationship, and background.

Identity Documents

Include:

  • Passport
  • Birth certificate
  • National identity card (if applicable)
  • A recent passport-style photo

Relationship Evidence

These documents show your shared life:

  • Joint bank accounts
  • Shared bills or rental agreements
  • Photos together over time
  • Travel receipts or hotel bookings
  • Statements from friends and family about your relationship

Your sponsor must provide:

  • Passport or proof of citizenship / residency
  • Evidence of financial capacity
  • Police checks (if requested)

Health and Character Documents

These documents verify your background:

  • Australian Federal Police check
  • Overseas police checks (if you lived abroad)
  • Medical examinations when required by the Department

Application Process for the Partner Visa 820

Follow the steps below to lodge a complete and strong application.

Step 1 – Gather All Documents

Collect your identity, relationship, financial, and sponsor documents. Missing files can delay your application.

Step 2 – Write Your Personal Relationship Statements

Both partners must write a statement explaining:

  • How you met
  • How your relationship developed
  • Major events in the relationship
  • Future plans as a couple

Keep your statement clear, detailed, and truthful.

Step 3 – Lodge the Application Online

Submit your partner visa 820 application through ImmiAccount. You must be inside Australia when lodging.

Step 4 – Receive Your Bridging Visa A

After lodging, you are granted a Bridging Visa A, which allows you to stay lawfully in Australia while the application is processed.

Step 5 – Provide Additional Documents if Requested

The Department may request extra proof. Send requested documents quickly to avoid delays.

Step 6 – Application Outcome

If approved, the partner visa 820 allows you to:

  • Live in Australia
  • Work full-time
  • Study
  • Travel if you hold a Bridging Visa B

For more details on timelines and fees, visit other Related blog:
Partner Subclass 820 Visa Explained: Requirements, Processing Time and Costs.

Visa Fees and Processing Times in 2025

Cost

The combined fee for the 820/801 partner visa starts at AUD 8,850. This fee may change each year.

Processing Time

Most applications follow these timeframes:

  • 6–8 months for 25% of cases
  • 10–15 months for 50% of cases
  • 18–24 months for 75% of cases

Complex applications may take longer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I work while waiting for my partner visa 820?

Yes. Once your Bridging Visa A becomes active, you can work in Australia.

2. Can I travel overseas during processing?

Yes, but you must apply for a Bridging Visa B before leaving Australia.

3. Do I need new documents for the 801 stage?

Yes. You must show your relationship is still genuine after two years.

4. Can I include my children in the application?

Yes. You can include eligible dependent children.

5. What happens if my relationship ends during processing?

You must notify the Department. This may affect your visa eligibility.

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: +61 426 628 875
📧 Email: enquire@amaes.com.au
🌐 Website: https://archmigration.com.au/contact-us