Subclass 820

Partner Visa – Subclass 820 (Temporary)

For Applicants Applying from Inside Australia

The Partner Visa (Subclass 820) is a temporary visa that allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia while their permanent partner visa is being assessed. This visa is for applicants who are in Australia at the time of application and visa decision.

Subclass 820 is usually the first stage of a two-stage partner visa process, followed by assessment for the permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801).

Who Can Apply for Subclass 820?

This visa may be suitable for applicants who:

• Are married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
• Are physically present in Australia when applying
• Are sponsored by their partner
• Can demonstrate a genuine and continuing relationship
• Meet health and character requirements

Both the applicant and sponsor must meet eligibility criteria at the time of application.

Genuine Relationship Requirement

Applicants must show that their relationship is genuine and ongoing. Evidence is generally assessed across four main areas:

• Financial aspects – shared expenses, joint accounts, or financial support
• Nature of the household – shared living arrangements and responsibilities
• Social aspects – recognition of the relationship by family and friends
• Commitment – long-term plans and emotional support

Marriage alone does not guarantee eligibility; de facto relationships must generally show at least 12 months of living together unless exemptions apply.

What the Subclass 820 Visa Allows

While holding the Subclass 820 visa, applicants may:

• Live in Australia lawfully
• Work and study without restriction
• Enrol in Medicare (subject to eligibility)
• Travel in and out of Australia while the visa remains valid
• Remain in Australia while awaiting assessment of the permanent stage

All rights are subject to visa conditions and government policy.

Sponsorship Requirements

The sponsoring partner must:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
• Agree to sponsor the applicant and provide support
• Meet sponsorship eligibility and character requirements
• Comply with sponsorship limitations under Australian migration law

In some cases, sponsorship history and past convictions may affect eligibility.

Transition to Permanent Visa (Subclass 801)

After a specified period, applicants holding a Subclass 820 visa may be assessed for the Partner Visa (Subclass 801). This assessment is based on:

• Continuation of the genuine relationship
• Compliance with visa conditions
• Updated evidence supporting the partnership

Eligibility for permanent residency depends on meeting the requirements at the time of assessment.

Important Considerations

• Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances
• Accurate and consistent documentation is essential
• Changes in relationship status must be reported
• Visa conditions must be followed at all times

Understanding these factors helps applicants prepare for a smoother application process.

Understanding Your Partner Visa Pathway

The Subclass 820 visa provides a pathway for partners to remain together in Australia while progressing toward permanent residency. Choosing the correct visa pathway and preparing appropriate documentation is an important part of the process.

Victory Group provides guidance to help applicants understand Subclass 820 requirements and application steps in line with current Australian immigration regulations.