Australia Partner Visa Subclass 801: Your Complete Guide to Permanent Residency

February 24, 2025

Australia’s Partner Visa 801 is a crucial step towards securing permanent residency for those in genuine relationships with Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. If you have already obtained a Partner Subclass 820 Visa, the 801 Permanent Partner Visa allows you to transition to full residency. This guide covers eligibility, requirements, 801 visa processing time, and steps to ensure a smooth application process.

What is the Australia Partner Visa Subclass 801?

The Partner Visa Subclass 801 is a permanent visa for individuals who have held a Partner Subclass 820 Visa for at least two years. It grants full rights to live, work, and study in Australia, access Medicare, and even apply for Australian citizenship in the future.

This visa serves as the second stage of the partner visa process. The Partner Subclass 820 Visa is the temporary visa granted first, and after fulfilling the two-year requirement, applicants can transition to the 801 Permanent Visa. This pathway ensures that applicants remain in a genuine, ongoing relationship before being granted permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria for Australia Partner Visa 801

To qualify for the 801 Permanent Partner Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Hold a valid Australian Partner Subclass 820 Visa.

  • Be in a genuine, ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

  • Continue to meet character and health requirements.

  • Provide evidence of a shared life, including financial, social, and household commitments.

  • Have complied with all Australian visa conditions since obtaining the Partner Subclass 820 Visa.

Understanding these requirements is crucial to ensuring a smooth visa application process. A strong and well-documented application increases your chances of success.

Documents Required for 801 Visa

When applying for the Partner Subclass 801, ensure you submit the necessary documents, including:

  • Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, and any name change documents.

  • Relationship Evidence: Joint financial documents, lease agreements, utility bills, photos, and social proof.

  • Character Documents: Police clearance certificates from all countries you have lived in for 12+ months.

  • Health Examination: Medical checks conducted by an approved provider.

  • Statutory Declarations: Statements from friends and family attesting to the authenticity of your relationship.

  • Communication Proof: Messages, emails, call logs, and letters exchanged between you and your partner.

Providing complete and accurate documentation can speed up your 801 visa processing time and increase approval chances.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Visa Subclass 801

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet all the requirements for the 801 Permanent Visa and have held the Partner Subclass 820 Visa for at least two years. If you do not meet the requirements, your application may be refused.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Collect all documents required for 801 visa, including identity proof, relationship evidence, and police clearances. Double-check your documentation to avoid delays.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

The Partner Visa Subclass 801 application is lodged online through the ImmiAccount portal. Ensure all documents are uploaded in the correct format.

Step 4: Provide Additional Information if Requested

Immigration authorities may request more documents to verify your relationship and background. Respond promptly to prevent processing delays.

Step 5: Receive Your Visa Decision

Once approved, you will receive your 801 Permanent Partner Visa, granting you full rights as an Australian permanent resident. If your application is refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision.

801 Partner Visa Processing Time

The 801 visa processing time varies based on individual cases and the completeness of submitted documents. On average:

  • 75% of applications are processed within 10-14 months.

  • 90% of applications are processed within 16-24 months.

Some factors that may delay processing include:

  • Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.

  • Delays in police or medical clearance.

  • High application volume.

To avoid delays, ensure all supporting documents are accurate and up-to-date.

Benefits of the 801 Permanent Visa

Securing an 801 Permanent Partner Visa comes with numerous advantages:

  • Permanent Residency: Live indefinitely in Australia.

  • Work and Study: No restrictions on employment or education.

  • Access to Medicare: Australia’s healthcare system.

  • Pathway to Citizenship: Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

  • Sponsor Family Members: Bring eligible relatives to Australia.

  • Social Security Benefits: Access to government support programs.

These benefits make the 801 Permanent Visa a significant milestone for applicants seeking a stable future in Australia.

Common Reasons for Partner Visa 801 Rejections

Many applicants face challenges when applying for the Partner Visa Subclass 801 Australia due to:

  1. Insufficient Relationship Evidence: Incomplete or weak proof of a genuine relationship.

  2. Failure to Meet Character Requirements: Issues in police clearance or undisclosed criminal records.

  3. Incomplete Documentation: Missing essential documents prolongs processing time.

  4. Non-Compliance with Visa Conditions: Failure to meet ongoing visa conditions may result in refusal.

Tips to Ensure a Successful Partner Visa 801 Application

  • Submit Strong Relationship Evidence: Provide joint financial statements, household bills, and social proofs like joint travel or family gatherings.

  • Keep Documents Updated: Ensure your documents are current and relevant.

  • Follow Up with Immigration: Regularly check your ImmiAccount for any additional requests.

  • Seek Professional Help: Consulting a migration consultant can improve your application success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for the 801 visa before two years on the 820 visa?

No, you must hold the Partner Subclass 820 Visa for at least two years before applying for the 801 Permanent Partner Visa.

2. Do I need to submit new relationship evidence for the 801 visa?

Yes, you must provide updated documents proving your relationship is ongoing and genuine.

3. What happens if my relationship ends before getting the 801 visa?

If your relationship ends before your Partner Visa Subclass 801 is granted, you must inform immigration authorities. Depending on the situation, you may still be eligible under specific circumstances.

4. Can I travel while my 801 visa is being processed?

Yes, you can travel, but you must have a Bridging Visa B (BVB) if your current visa does not permit travel.

5. Is there an interview for the 801 visa?

Interviews are rare but may be requested if further clarification is needed regarding your relationship.

Conclusion

The Australia Partner Visa Subclass 801 is the final step to obtaining permanent residency for those in committed relationships with Australian citizens or residents. By understanding the eligibility criteria, 801 partner visa processing time, and key documentation requirements, you can ensure a smooth application process.

For more guidance on partner visa options, consider consulting AUM Global a professional for your partner visa Australia application. With the right preparation, securing your 801 Permanent Visa is within reach!

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