Partner Visa 801 Australia | Requirements & Process Guide

If youre in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident and wish to live together in Australia, applying for Partner Visa 801 might be your pathway to making that dream a reality. This visa allows the partner or spouse of an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live permanently in Australia.

In this article, well walk you through everything you need to know about the Partner Visa 801, including the application process, eligibility criteria, documents required, timeline, and common mistakes to avoid.

What is the Partner Visa 801?

The Partner Visa Subclass 801 is a permanent visa granted to applicants who are already holding the temporary Partner Visa Subclass 820. Its the second stage of the partner visa application process in Australia. While the 820 visa allows you to live in Australia temporarily, the 801 visa lets you stay permanently, work without restrictions, study, and even access Medicare and Centrelink benefits.

Who Can Apply for Partner Visa 801?

To be eligible for the Partner Visa 801, you must:

• Hold a Partner Visa 820

• Still be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your Australian partner

• Have met all the conditions of your temporary visa

• Have submitted evidence of your relationship and shared life together

In most cases, youll apply for both the 820 and 801 visas at the same time. However, the 801 visa is processed two years after the application, provided the relationship is still intact.

Key Benefits of Partner Visa 801

Once granted, the Partner Visa 801 Australia offers several advantages:

• Permanent residency status

• Work and study rights without limitations

• Access to Medicare, Australias public health system

• Social security benefits (after waiting periods)

• Ability to sponsor family members

• Pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements

• Freedom to travel in and out of Australia without restriction

Partner Visa 801 Checklist

To increase your chances of a successful outcome, its important to have all your documentation in order. Heres a basic Partner Visa 801 checklist:

Identity Documents:

• Valid passport

• Birth certificate

• National ID (if applicable)

Relationship Proof:

• Marriage certificate or proof of de facto relationship

• Joint lease or mortgage documents

• Joint bank accounts

• Photos together over time

• Social evidence: messages, emails, letters

• Statutory declarations from friends and family

Character and Health:

• Police clearance certificates from all countries you lived in for more than 12 months

• Health examination results (if requested)

Additional Documents:

• Form 888 (statutory declarations from supporting witnesses)

• Evidence of ongoing relationship after receiving the 820 visa

Providing consistent and truthful evidence is essential for a smooth Partner Visa 801 process.

How Long Does Partner Visa 801 Take to Process?

The Partner Visa 801 processing time can vary depending on several factors, including the completeness of your application and current demand at the immigration department.

As of recent estimates:

• 75% of applications are processed in around 11 to 17 months

• 90% are completed in up to 22 months

However, if your relationship is long-standing (3+ years or has a child together), your 801 visa may be granted earlier without needing to wait the full two years.

Cost of Partner Visa 801

The Partner Visa 801 is included in the initial fee you pay when applying for the combined 820/801 visa application. As of 2025, the cost is:

• AUD 8,850 for most applicants

• Lower for dependent children

This fee covers both the temporary (820) and permanent (801) visa stages. No separate payment is needed for the 801 stage later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for a partner visa is a complex process. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

1. Not updating relationship evidence Immigration expects recent proof of the relationship even after 820 approval.

2. Delays in submitting requested documents This can cause unnecessary processing delays.

3. Incomplete or inconsistent information Mismatched timelines or vague answers can raise red flags.

4. Failing to notify changes in circumstances This includes changes in your relationship, address, or contact details.

5. Missing the second stage application deadline After two years, the immigration department will invite you to provide updated information for the 801 assessment. Failing to respond may affect your outcome.

Do You Need a Migration Agent?

While its possible to apply for the Partner Visa 801 without professional help, many applicants prefer working with a migration agent to ensure accuracy and peace of mind. A MARA-registered migration agent can help you prepare a stronger case, avoid unnecessary delays, and improve your chances of approval.

Partner Visa 801 After Divorce or Separation

If your relationship ends after receiving the 820 visa, but before the 801 visa is granted, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs immediately. In some casessuch as domestic violence, death of the sponsor, or having a child togetheryou may still be eligible for the 801 visa. Legal advice or speaking with a registered migration agent is highly recommended in such circumstances.

Final Thoughts

The Partner Visa 801 is a major step toward building a life with your loved one in Australia. While the process can feel overwhelming, being organized, truthful, and prepared makes all the difference. Whether you're just beginning the journey with a subclass 820 or awaiting your 801 invitation, understanding each step will empower you to navigate it confidently.