If you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, the Partner Visa (Subclass 820) is your pathway to living in Australia legally while your permanent visa is processed.

What Does the Subclass 820 Visa Do?

The Subclass 820 visa is a temporary onshore partner visa, meaning you apply while you are in Australia. It allows you to:

• Stay legally in Australia while your permanent partner visa (Subclass 801) is being assessed.
• Work and study during the processing period.
• Access certain benefits, including Medicare in some cases.
• Travel in and out of Australia on a Bridging Visa (once granted).

Think of it as a stepping stone to permanent residency.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for Subclass 820 if you are in a relationship with someone who is:

• An Australian citizen, or
• An Australian permanent resident, or
• An eligible New Zealand citizen.

Your relationship can be married or de facto, but you must show it is genuine and ongoing.

Note: De facto couples usually need to have lived together for at least 12 months before applying, unless exceptions apply (e.g., children together).

Why Is the Subclass 820 Important?

1. It protects your stay in Australia while waiting for the permanent partner visa.
2. It allows you to legally work and study, making life easier during the wait.
3. It forms the first step toward permanent residency (Subclass 801).

Without this temporary visa, even if you are married to an Australian, you would not have legal status in Australiawhile the permanent visa is processed.

Key Points for DIY Applicants

• Subclass 820 = temporary onshore visa.
• Must be applied from within Australia.
• Leads to permanent residency (Subclass 801) after approximately 2 years.
• Requires proof of a genuine relationship.

Tip: Start gathering evidence of your relationship early—photos, joint accounts, bills, and travel documents can all strengthen your application.

Final Thoughts

The Subclass 820 visa is designed to let you live, work, and study in Australia while your permanent partner visa is processed. For DIY applicants, understanding this visa is the first crucial step to a smooth application.

✅ Quick Recap:

• Temporary, onshore partner visa
• Leads to permanent Subclass 801
• Requires a genuine relationship
• Lets you live, work, and study in Australia

Want step-by-step guidance? Check out our DIY Partner Visa Package here.

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