Provisional Partner Visas (Subclass 820) (Subclass 309)
Provisional Partner Visas allow spouses or de facto partners of Australian or eligible New Zealand citizens to stay in Australia temporarily. After two years, you can apply for permanent residency.
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About the 820 Visa
Provisional Partner Visas are temporary visas designed for individuals who are either the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, a permanent resident of Australia, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. These visas serve as the first step toward permanent residency for couples who wish to build their lives together in Australia. Once granted, the provisional visa allows the applicant to live, work, and study in Australia for a period of two years. During this time, the relationship is assessed to ensure its genuineness and ongoing commitment. After the initial two-year period, if the relationship is still valid and meets the immigration requirements, the applicant becomes eligible to apply for a permanent Partner Visa, which offers long-term residency and the opportunity to fully integrate into Australian society.
Who can apply for the 820 Visa?
For applicants:
- You must either be in Australia when lodging the application and at the time of decision for the Subclass 820 Visa (along with any family members included in your application) or be outside Australia when lodging the application and at the time of decision for the Subclass 309 Visa (along with any family members).
- You must have an approved sponsor (typically your partner), and you cannot change your sponsor once the temporary visa is granted.
- You must be 18 years or older when you lodge the visa application.
- You must be the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, meeting all relationship requirements (genuine and ongoing relationship, living together or not living separately on a permanent basis, mutual commitment, and not closely related by family). De facto applicants usually need to demonstrate a minimum 12-month relationship, unless exempt.
- You must meet health and character requirements.
- You must have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government or have made arrangements to repay any existing debts.
- Your immigration history and any past application refusals may affect your eligibility. If you have held certain regional visas or if you are a current or former Prospective Marriage Visa holder whose relationship has ended or whose partner has passed away, you may still be eligible under specific circumstances.
For sponsors:
- You must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen and be approved as a sponsor.
- You must be 18 years or older. If you are under 18 and are married to the applicant, a parent or guardian may be able to sponsor on your behalf.
- You must satisfy character requirements (provide police clearances as requested and consent to the disclosure of any convictions). A significant criminal record for relevant offences can affect your ability to sponsor.
- Certain sponsorship limitations or bars might apply in special circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Confirm your eligibility and relationship status
- You must be the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. • Gather evidence that your relationship is genuine and ongoing (e.g. joint finances, shared household, social proof). • Choose the right visa stream: apply onshore for Subclass 820/801 or offshore for Subclass 309/100.
- Lodge the partner visa and sponsorship application
- Submit both the partner visa and sponsorship applications together. • Include identity documents, relationship evidence, police checks, and health assessments. • Pay the full visa fee at time of lodgement.
- Temporary visa grant and assessment for permanent stage
- If approved, you will receive a temporary visa (Subclass 820 or 309). • After 2 years, provide updated evidence to be assessed for the permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100).
- Permanent visa grant and settlement in Australia
- Once granted, enjoy full permanent residency benefits including work rights, Medicare, and a pathway to citizenship.
- Ready to start your Partner Visa journey? 📅Book a consultation or 📞 Call us on 0415 419 414 for expert help.
- Subclass 309 Visa processing typically takes between 10 and 21 months.
- Subclass 820 Visa processing typically takes between 9 and 18 months.
For current processing times, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Primary applicant – $9,095
- Adult dependent (18 and over) – $4,550
- Child dependent (under 18) – $2,280
- Credit card surcharge (if applicable).
- Other fees such as health examinations, police checks, and document translations may apply.
- Professional fees for migration services are separate.
- Partner Visa applications are facing increased scrutiny due to stricter evidentiary requirements. Additionally, rising application fees make it crucial to submit a well-prepared application from the outset.
We have extensive experience and a high success rate in lodging Partner Visa applications. Our services include:
- Comprehensive Guidance: Assisting you with every step of the application process.
- Evidence Compilation: Helping you gather and present strong supporting documents.
- Application Preparation: Ensuring all forms are completed accurately and efficiently.
- Issue Resolution: Identifying and addressing potential complications before submission.
- Application Lodgement and Management: Managing the submission process for a smooth and timely outcome.
Ready to start your 820 and 309 Visa journey?📞 Call us now at 0415 419 414
Benefits of the 820 and 309 visa
Residency
Stay, work, and live in Australia for two years while awaiting a decision on your Permanent Partner Visa.
English Education
Access free English language classes (if eligible) through the Adult Migrant English Program.
Medicare
Enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Dependents
Include dependent children or stepchildren in your visa application.
Travel
Travel in and out of Australia freely while your visa remains valid.
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