Understanding the Partner Visa Subclass 801 Process

If you’ve already started your journey on a temporary partner visa in Australia, the next exciting step is applying for the Partner Visa 801. This visa allows you to stay in Australia permanently with your spouse or de facto partner. Whether you’re just starting the process or nearing your eligibility for the 801 visa, it’s essential to understand the steps, requirements, and timeline involved.

What Is the Partner Visa 801?

The Partner Visa Subclass 801 is the permanent stage of a two-part visa process. Most applicants first receive the temporary visa (subclass 820) before becoming eligible for the 801 visa. Once granted, the 801 Partner Visa gives you the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely and eventually apply for Australian citizenship if you’re eligible.

Who Can Apply for the Partner Visa 801 Australia?

To apply for the Partner Visa 801 in Australia, you must:

• Already hold a subclass 820 visa.
• Be in a genuine and continuing relationship with your sponsoring Australian partner.
• Continue to meet health and character requirements.
• Submit updated documentation showing the relationship is still valid.

Partner Visa 801 Checklist

Here’s a practical Partner Visa 801 checklist to help you gather all the required documents before applying:

1. Relationship evidence—photos together, joint finances, shared bills, travel history, and social proof.
2. Statements from both partners—explaining how the relationship developed and future plans.
3. Form 888s—statutory declarations from Australian friends or relatives supporting your relationship.
4. Police clearance certificates—from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months.
5. Health checks—if requested again by the Department of Home Affairs.
6. Identity documents—passports, birth certificates, and any name change records.
7. Proof of continued cohabitation—rental agreements, bank accounts, utilities, etc.

It’s important to submit well-organized, genuine documentation. Incomplete or inconsistent information can delay processing.

Partner Visa 801 Processing Time

The Partner Visa 801 processing time can vary depending on your case and how quickly you respond to requests for additional documents. On average:

• 25% of applications are processed in around 8 months.
• 50% take 12–18 months.
• Some complex applications may take up to 24 months.

Processing is often faster if you submit a clear, complete application with all necessary documents.

What Happens After Lodging the 801 Partner Visa?

After you apply, you may receive a request for updated documents or an interview. If your relationship has remained strong and you’ve met all conditions, the department will grant you the Partner Visa 801, and you’ll become a permanent resident of Australia. From here, you can access full Medicare benefits, stay indefinitely, and apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Do You Need a Migration Agent?

Although not mandatory, many applicants find that working with a migration agent or partner visa consultant helps reduce stress and avoid mistakes. They can help you:

• Review your 801 partner visa eligibility.
• Organize a complete application.
• Handle communication with immigration officers.
• Track the latest policy updates and requirements.

A registered migration agent can be especially useful if your case has any complications, such as time spent apart, offshore travel, or previous visa issues.

Final Thoughts

The Partner Visa Subclass 801 is a crucial step for couples planning a life together in Australia. Understanding the partner visa 801 checklist, keeping track of timelines, and gathering the right documents will help you stay on top of the process.

If you’re unsure or want peace of mind, consider getting help from a qualified migration agent to make sure everything goes smoothly. After all, once the partner visa 801 Australia is granted, it opens the door to a secure, long-term future in the country you now call home.