How to Apply for the Subclass 820 Partner Visa in 2025

If you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen and want to stay together in Australia, the Subclass 820 Partner Visa could be the solution. This visa allows onshore applicants to live in Australia temporarily while their permanent partner visa is being processed.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, timelines, and expert tips to help you and your partner stay together.

What is the Subclass 820 Partner Visa?

The Subclass 820 Partner Visa application is a temporary onshore visa for individuals in a genuine, ongoing relationship with an eligible partner. It is the first stage toward obtaining the permanent Subclass 801 Partner Visa.

Key Features:

• Allows you to stay in Australia with your partner

• Work and study rights included

• Access to Medicare

• A pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 801)

You must:

• Be in Australia when applying and when the visa is granted

• Be in a genuine de facto relationship or legally married to an eligible Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen

• Hold a valid visa (not a transit or criminal justice visa)

Your sponsor must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying, ensure both you and your partner meet the requirements regarding relationship status, health, and character.

2. Gather Documents

Prepare evidence to support your relationship claim:

• Relationship history (how you met, lived together, plans)

• Joint financial records (bank accounts, bills, lease)

• Social proof (photos, joint invitations, travel)

• Statutory declarations (Form 888s from friends/family)

3. Submit the Online Application

Apply through your ImmiAccount (nofollow). You’ll apply for both the Subclass 820 and the permanent Subclass 801 visa at the same time.

4. Pay the Application Fee

• Primary applicant: AUD $8,850 (as of 2025)

• Additional costs may apply for dependents and health checks

5. Undergo Health & Character Checks

You may be asked to submit police clearances and complete health examinations as part of the process.

6. Wait for Processing

Processing times vary. For 2025:

• 75% of applications: ~13 months

• 90% of applications: ~23 months

7. Bridging Visa Grant (if applicable)

While waiting, you may receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) allowing you to stay lawfully in Australia.

To improve your chances of success:

• Provide consistent evidence across all documents

• Avoid inconsistencies in dates, addresses, or timelines

• Submit clear, well-organized files in PDF format

• Use a timeline to show how your relationship has developed

Julia (Australian citizen) and Amir (on a student visa) met at university in 2021 and moved in together in 2022. They shared bills, a rental lease, and traveled together frequently. In early 2024, they applied for the Subclass 820 visa. After 14 months and consistent follow-ups with supporting documents, Amir was granted the visa in early 2025 and now awaits his permanent Subclass 801 visa.

Pros:

• Allows you to remain in Australia with your partner

• Work and study rights

• Medicare access

• Clear pathway to PR

Cons:

• High application fee

• Long processing times

• Requires substantial documentation and evidence

Can I work on a Subclass 820 Visa?

Yes. The visa allows full work rights in Australia.

Do I need to be living with my partner?

It strengthens your case but is not mandatory if you can demonstrate a committed relationship.

What happens if my relationship ends during processing?

You must inform the Department of Home Affairs. Your visa may be affected unless there are compassionate grounds.

Can I include my children?

Yes, dependent children can be included in your application.

Internal Link:

• Australia Partner Visa Types – Full Guide (dofollow)

External Link:

• ImmiAccount Login & Application Portal (nofollow)

• Partner Visa Processing Times (nofollow)

The Subclass 820 Partner Visa is an essential pathway for couples who want to build a future together in Australia. Though the process requires patience, preparation, and strong documentation, the reward is the ability to live, work, and build your relationship onshore while working toward permanent residency.