💑 Find a Migration Agent for Partner Visa 820/801
The Partner Visa pathway (Subclasses 820 and 801) allows partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia. The 820 is a temporary visa granted first; the 801 permanent visa is usually granted automatically 2 years later (or immediately if you have been in the relationship for over 3 years at the time of application).
Partner visa applications are among the most evidence-intensive visa types. The DHA assesses whether the relationship is genuine under four categories of evidence. A MARA agent helps you compile compelling financial, social, household, and commitment evidence that tells a coherent story.
Migration agents specialising in Partner Visa 820/801
All agents hold current MARA, RCIC, or OISC registration.
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United KingdomUnited KingdomPartner Visa 820/801 — Frequently asked questions
What evidence do I need for a partner visa application?+
DHA assesses evidence across four categories: (1) financial — joint bank accounts, shared assets, bills in both names; (2) social — photos together, statutory declarations from friends and family, social media; (3) household — joint lease or mortgage, shared utilities; (4) commitment — correspondence, travel history together, long-term plans. A MARA agent helps you build evidence across all four categories.
How long does a partner visa take to process?+
The onshore 820 stage typically takes 18–36 months for a temporary approval, depending on the backlog. The 801 permanent stage follows 2 years after the 820 application date (or immediately if your relationship is over 3 years old). Processing times can vary significantly and the DHA publishes current estimates.
Can I work in Australia while waiting for my partner visa?+
Yes. When you lodge the 820 application onshore, you are granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) which allows you to remain in Australia and work with full work rights while the application is being processed.
What is the difference between an onshore (820/801) and offshore (309/100) partner visa?+
The 820/801 is applied for while you are in Australia and allows you to stay onshore during processing. The 309/100 is applied for from outside Australia and requires you to be outside Australia when the visa is granted. The end result (permanent residence) is the same; the pathway depends on where you are when you apply.
My partner visa was refused — what can I do?+
A refusal can be reviewed at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART, formerly AAT). You typically have 21 days to lodge a review application. A MARA agent with tribunal experience can prepare your review submission, address the specific refusal reasons, and represent you if there is a hearing.