When applying for an Australian Partner Visa (Subclass 820), meeting health and character requirements is mandatory. Even if you have a genuine and ongoing relationship, failing these checks can result in delays or refusal. For DIY applicants, understanding what’s required and how to prepare is critical.

Why Health and Character Checks Matter

The Australian government requires all visa applicants to:

• Protect the health system by screening for certain medical conditions
• Ensure applicants have a good character, reducing risks to the community
• Comply with legal obligations under the Migration Act

For Subclass 820, these requirements apply to both the applicant and any dependent children included in the application.

Health Requirements

1. Medical Examination

• Must be performed by a Panel Physician approved by the Department of Home Affairs
• Usually includes:
  • Physical examination
  • Chest X-ray for tuberculosis
  • Blood tests for diseases such as HIV and hepatitis

DIY Tip: Schedule your medical exam early; appointments with panel physicians can take weeks.

2. Medical Condition Assessment

Applicants may be assessed on:

• Risk to public health – e.g., infectious diseases
• Potential healthcare costs – serious illnesses may trigger additional scrutiny

3. Children’s Health Checks

• Children may require medical examinations depending on age and circumstances
• Immunisation records may also be requested

DIY Tip: Ensure all family members included in the application complete the necessary medical exams to avoid delays.

Character Requirements

1. Police Certificates

You must provide police certificates from all countries you have lived in for 12 months or more since turning 16.

• Certificates confirm no significant criminal history
• Each certificate must be official and up-to-date

2. Good Character Assessment

The Department assesses:

• Criminal convictions or charges
• Involvement in organised crime, fraud, or violent behaviour
• Previous visa cancellations or overstays

DIY Tip: Full disclosure is critical. Attempting to hide criminal history can result in visa refusal or future bans.

Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid

1. Delaying medical exams – This can hold up your entire application
2. Using non-approved doctors – Only panel physicians’ examinations are accepted
3. Missing police certificates – Even one missing certificate can lead to delays
4. Ignoring previous visa history – Undisclosed refusals or overstays may negatively impact your application
5. Incomplete documentation – Ensure all health forms, test results, and certificates are submitted correctly

Tips for DIY Applicants

• Start early: Arrange medical exams and police checks before lodging your application.
• Check expiry dates: Police certificates often expire after 12 months; plan accordingly.
• Keep records: Retain copies of all documents submitted.
• Follow Department instructions: Use only approved forms and panel physicians.
• Include children: Ensure all dependent children in your application meet the same requirements.

Final Thoughts

Meeting health and character requirements is an essential part of a successful Subclass 820 Partner Visa application. Even a strong relationship and complete evidence package can be delayed or refused if these checks are not completed correctly.

For DIY applicants, preparation is key:

• Book medical examinations early with panel physicians
• Collect all police certificates from relevant countries
• Ensure children’s requirements are met
• Keep detailed records to avoid missing or incorrect submissions

Following these steps ensures your application is complete, compliant, and more likely to be processed smoothly.

✅ Quick Recap

• Health checks are performed by approved panel physicians and include physical exams, X-rays, and blood tests
• Police certificates are required from all countries lived in for 12+ months since age 16
• Good character assessment considers criminal history, fraud, or visa violations
• Children included in the application must also meet health and character requirements
• DIY tip: Start early, keep records, and follow Department guidelines carefully

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

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