Partner visas
Partner Onshore (820/801)
One combined application lodged in Australia. The temporary 820 keeps you living and working here while your case is assessed, and the permanent 801 can follow at stage two.
Requirements
What the 820/801 asks of you.
Both of you are assessed. The application stands on your relationship and on your sponsor's approval.
An approved Australian sponsor
Your partner must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, and their sponsorship must be approved. Limits apply, including past partner sponsorships, five-year gaps and police checks on the sponsor.
A genuine and continuing relationship
Married or de facto, mutually exclusive, and living together or apart only temporarily. Evidence spans your finances, your household, your social life and your commitment to each other.
Twelve months together, or registration
De facto couples generally need twelve months of relationship history before lodging. A relationship registered with an Australian state or territory can meet this instead.
A valid visa when you lodge
Most applicants lodge while holding a valid visa and move to a Bridging Visa A with work rights while the 820 is assessed. The BVA does not allow travel; you need a Bridging Visa B before leaving Australia. Lodging without a current visa is high risk and needs advice first.
The pathway
How we run your 820/801.
Eligibility assessment
Your visa status, relationship history and your partner's sponsorship position, assessed before anything is lodged.
Sponsorship
Your partner's sponsorship prepared, with any past sponsorships and character matters addressed up front.
Evidence
Relationship evidence compiled together across finances, household, social life and commitment.
Lodgement
Lodged decision-ready in Australia. Most applicants move to a Bridging Visa A with work rights.
Stage two
Roughly two years after lodgement, we compile updated evidence for the permanent 801.
General information only, not immigration advice. Your circumstances matter. Visa requirements, fees and processing times change regularly. Facts on this page last reviewed 15 July 2026. Check current details with the Department of Home Affairs , or speak with us for advice on your situation. Website terms.
Begin with a conversation.
Speak with a MARA-registered migration agent in Melbourne about your pathway. Book a time that suits you.