The partnership visa 820 helps couples live together in Australia. It is a temporary visa, but it leads to permanent residency. This visa is for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. You must already be inside Australia when you apply.

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If your documents are clear and your relationship evidence is strong, your approval chances improve.

What Is the Visa Partner Subclass 820?

The visa partner subclass 820 is the first step in the onshore partner visa process.

What This Visa Allows You to Do

Once approved, the partnership visa 820 allows you to:

  • Stay legally in Australia
  • Work full-time
  • Study freely
  • Access Medicare

After some time, you may move to the permanent Partner Visa 801.

Who Can Apply for the Partnership Visa 820?

Both the applicant and the sponsor must meet visa rules.

Relationship Requirements

You can apply if you are:

  • Married, or
  • In a de facto relationship (usually 12 months or more)

Your relationship must be:

  • Genuine
  • Ongoing
  • Exclusive
  • Still active at the time of decision

New or unclear relationships need stronger proof.

Your partner must:

  • Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Agree to sponsor and support you

The sponsor must also pass character checks.

Documents Needed for Visa Partner Subclass 820

Good documents reduce delays and refusal risk.

Personal Identity Documents

  • Passport
  • Birth certificate
  • National ID (if available)
  • Recent passport-size photos

Relationship Evidence (Very Important)

  • Joint bank accounts
  • Shared bills
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Photos together
  • Travel bookings
  • Call or message records
  • Statements from friends or family

Sponsor Documents

  • Passport
  • Proof of citizenship or residency
  • Job or income details

Health and Character Checks

  • Australian police certificate
  • Overseas police checks (if needed)
  • Medical examinations

How to Apply for the Partnership Visa 820

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Collect all documents before applying. Missing documents cause most delays.

Step 2: Write Relationship Statements

Both partners must explain:

  • How you met
  • How the relationship grew
  • How you live together
  • Your future plans

Tips for Better Statements

  • Be honest
  • Use dates
  • Give real examples
  • Do not copy each other

Step 3: Apply Online

Apply through ImmiAccount. You must be inside Australia when applying for the partnership visa 820.

Step 4: Get a Bridging Visa

Most applicants receive a Bridging Visa A. This lets you stay legally while waiting.

Step 5: Reply to Requests

If asked for more documents, respond quickly.

Processing Time and Costs

Processing Time

  • Most cases take 12 to 24 months
  • Missing evidence can delay decisions

Costs to Expect

  • Government visa fee
  • Medical checks
  • Police certificates
  • Translation costs

Benefits of the Partnership Visa 820

  • Work without limits
  • Study freely
  • Access Medicare
  • Stay legally in Australia
  • Clear path to permanent residency

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

Applications may fail due to:

  • Weak relationship evidence
  • Missing documents
  • Sponsor not eligible
  • Health or character issues

Strong and clear evidence reduces these risks.

Other Related Article

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work on a partnership visa 820?

Yes. You can work once your bridging visa starts.

Do we need to be married?

No. De facto couples can apply.

Can I travel while waiting?

Yes, with a Bridging Visa B.

Does this visa lead to permanent residency?

Yes. It leads to the Partner Visa 801.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

  • Show shared finances
  • Prove you live together
  • Include social proof
  • Explain future plans clearly
  • Keep documents organised

Need Expert Help?

Partner visa applications can feel stressful. Professional help reduces mistakes and delays.

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