02/22/2025
The Temporary Partner Visa Subclass 820 is the first step for those who wish to live with their Australian partner. This onshore partner visa 820 allows eligible applicants to stay in Australia while waiting for the permanent Partner Visa Subclass 801. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the partner subclass 820, including eligibility, costs, processing time, and the application process.
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The partner visa 820 is a temporary visa that allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to stay in Australia. It is the first stage of a two-step visa process leading to permanent residency via the Partner Visa Subclass 801.
This visa is designed to help couples stay together while their application for permanent residency is processed. It is applicable to both married and de facto couples, including same-sex relationships. However, de facto couples must generally demonstrate at least 12 months of cohabitation unless there are exceptional circumstances.
To be eligible for the partner visa subclass 820, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Be inside Australia at the time of application.
Have lived together or provide evidence of a long-term commitment.
Meet health and character requirements.
Provide evidence of a shared life, such as joint finances, shared bills, or cohabitation proof.
Not have had a visa canceled or a previous application refused.
The sponsor (your partner) must also meet eligibility criteria, including passing police checks and proving they are not prohibited from sponsoring you.
To support your application, you must provide:
Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)
Relationship proof (marriage certificate, joint lease, shared bills, photos together)
Evidence of financial commitment (joint bank statements, shared expenses)
Proof of social acknowledgment (statements from friends and family, social media proof)
Police clearance certificates from every country lived in for over 12 months
Health check results
Form 888: Statutory declarations from Australian citizens or permanent residents confirming your relationship
The partner visa 820 fee is one of the highest among Australian visa categories. As of 2025, the cost is approximately AUD 8,850 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for dependents included in the application.
Other costs include:
Health checks: AUD 300 - 500
Police clearance certificates: AUD 50 - 200 per country
Translation of documents (if required): Variable costs
It is important to note that fees are subject to change, and additional costs may be incurred depending on individual circumstances.
To submit a successful 820 partner visa application, prepare the required documents listed above.
The partner visa subclass 820 application must be lodged online via the ImmiAccount portal on the Australian government’s website. Ensure all supporting documents are uploaded to avoid processing delays.
Once the onshore partner visa 820 application is submitted, applicants receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA), allowing them to stay in Australia legally while awaiting processing. This visa permits work and study but does not allow re-entry into Australia if you leave unless you apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
Applicants may be required to undergo biometrics collection and a medical checkup at an authorized clinic.
The partner visa temporary 820 processing time varies. As of 2025, the average wait time is 18 to 24 months.
Processing times depend on various factors, including document completeness and application backlog. The estimated times are:
75% of applications: Processed within 18 months
90% of applications: Processed within 24 months
To speed up processing, applicants should ensure all required documents are provided upfront and respond quickly to any requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
Once granted, the Australian partner visa 820 allows you to:
Live, work, and study in Australia.
Enroll in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Travel freely within Australia and abroad (if holding a BVB).
Include dependent children in the visa application.
Pathway to permanent residency, leading to the Partner Visa Subclass 801 after two years.
While this visa provides many benefits, it does not automatically grant access to government-funded support payments.
After holding the partner subclass 820 for two years, you can apply for the permanent Partner Visa Subclass 801. This requires proving that your relationship is still genuine and ongoing.
Incomplete Documentation: Missing evidence can lead to application delays.
Inconsistencies in Information: Ensure all documents match the details in the application.
Not Providing Relationship Proof: Joint financial statements, photos, and testimonies are crucial.
Ignoring Visa Conditions: Ensure compliance with all visa conditions while your application is being processed.
If you find the application process overwhelming, consider seeking help from AUM Global a professional Immigration consultant in Australia who can guide you through the visa application process.
Processing can take between 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of applications in the queue.
Yes, the partner visa temporary 820 allows you to work and study in Australia.
Yes, but you may need a Bridging Visa B (BVB) for re-entry if your 820 visa is still under processing.
No, the partner visa 820 fee is non-refundable.
You must inform the Department of Home Affairs. In some cases, you may still qualify for the permanent Partner Visa 801 under special circumstances.
The partner visa subclass 820 is the first step toward permanent residency for those in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen or resident. While the process can be lengthy and expensive, proper preparation and attention to detail can improve your chances of success. If you need expert guidance, consider consulting a professional to ensure a smooth application process.
For more information, check out our guide on Partner Visa Australia.
