The Partner Visa 820 is a pathway for eligible New Zealand citizens, Australian citizens, or permanent residents to join their partners or de facto spouses in Australia temporarily. It serves as the initial step towards permanent residency through the subsequent subclass 801 visa.

Eligibility Criteria for the 820 Partner Visa

To qualify for the Partner Visa 820 in Australia:

• Both partners must be over 18 years old.
• They must have lived together in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months.
• The applicant must be the partner or de facto spouse of an eligible New Zealand citizen, Australian citizen, or permanent resident.
• Health and character requirements must be met.
• The sponsor should not have sponsored another person in the last five years.

Gather and Organize the Required Documents

Prepare all the necessary and supporting documents required for applying for a temporary partner visa under subclass 820. Here’s the 820 partner visa checklist for 2024:

Personal Documents:

• Certified copies of your passport.
• Two passport-sized photos.
• A certified copy of your birth certificate.
• National identity card (NIC).
• Certified copy of a name change (if applicable).

Relationship Evidence Documents:

• Copies of verified marriage or relationship registrations.
• Evidence of shared accommodation such as bills and invoices.
• Evidence of joint financial commitments including bank statements and combined insurances.
• Two Statutory Declarations (Form 888) from a third party verifying your relationship.
• Statutory declarations from the sponsor confirming the genuineness of your relationship with your partner.

Health and Character Requirements:

• Evidence of health insurance coverage.
• Evidence of an Australian Federal Police inspection.
• Certificates from the police of every country where you have lived since turning sixteen and lived there for more than a year.

After organizing all these documents, proceed with your visa application. However, if you feel confused or concerned about gathering and preparing these documents, you can reach out to us at The Migration for assistance.

Application Process for the 820 Partner Visa

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Partner Visa 820:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and hold a substantive visa.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect personal documents, relationship evidence, and fulfill health and character requirements.
3. Apply Online: Log in to the ImmiAccount website, complete the application form, attach documents, pay the visa fee, and submit.
4. Wait for Outcome: Await notification from the Department of Home Affairs regarding your visa status.

Processing Time for the 820 Partner Visa

The processing time for the Partner Visa 820 typically ranges from 23 to 26 months. Various factors, such as individual circumstances and application complexity, can influence processing times.

Post-Visa Grant

Once the Partner Visa 820 is granted, applicants can reside in Australia temporarily, work, study, and access healthcare through Medicare. After spending two years under the 820 visa, they become eligible to apply for the permanent Subclass 801 visa.

Cost of Applying for an Australian Partner Visa

The application fees for the combined 820/801 visas are as follows:

• Subclass 820/801 visa: $8,085 for the main applicant.
• For additional applicants:
  • Under 18: $2,025
  • Over 18: $4,045

Final Thoughts

The Partner Visa 820 offers a pathway for partners of eligible individuals to live temporarily in Australia, with the opportunity to transition to permanent residency. Adhering to the eligibility criteria, preparing thorough documentation, and understanding the application process are crucial for a successful visa application journey.