How Much Does the Australian Partner Visa 820 Cost?

If you’re planning to apply for an Australian Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801), one of the first questions on every DIY applicant’s mind is:

“How much is this going to cost?”

Understanding the fees involved, what they cover, and additional expenses can help you budget properly and avoid surprises.

Step 1: Current Partner Visa 820/801 Fees

As of 2026, the total cost for the combined onshore Partner Visa application is $8,085 AUD for the main applicant.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Lodgement fee for Subclass 820/801: $8,085
• Additional applicants:
  • Dependent child (under 18): $4,045 per child
  • Dependent child (18 and over): $4,045 per child

DIY Tip: Always check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the latest fees, as they are subject to change.

Step 2: What the Fee Covers

The fee includes:

1. Processing your temporary Subclass 820 visa
2. Assessment for the permanent Subclass 801 visa
3. Health and character checks
4. Administrative costs for reviewing evidence, interviews, and other procedural steps

Note: The fee does not cover medical examinations, police certificates, or translations—these are additional expenses you must budget for.

Step 3: Additional Costs to Consider

Besides the Department’s application fee, DIY applicants may encounter:

• Health checks (required for both applicants and dependents): $300–$600 per person
• Police certificates (for all countries where you’ve lived 12 months+ since age 16): $50–$100 each
• Document translation (if needed for any evidence): $30–$100 per page
• Travel for medical or biometrics appointments
• Optional professional services (migration agent or lawyer): $1,500–$5,000

DIY Tip: Keep a spreadsheet of all costs—it helps avoid last-minute surprises.

Step 4: Payment Methods

• Payments are made online through ImmiAccount
• The Department accepts credit card, BPAY, or online banking
• You usually receive a payment receipt immediately, which you should save for your records

DIY Tip: Only submit your payment through official channels to avoid scams.

Step 5: Cost-Saving Tips for DIY Applicants

1. Lodge carefully: Mistakes can lead to additional charges or delays
2. Include only necessary dependents: Each extra applicant increases the cost
3. Prepare documents yourself: Reduces professional service fees
4. Budget for health checks and police certificates early: Avoid urgent, expensive last-minute payments
5. Monitor exchange rates: If paying from overseas, plan for currency fluctuations

Step 6: Payment After Refusal

• If your visa is refused, the Department does not refund the application fee
• This makes careful preparation essential for DIY applicants
• Some optional costs (like medical exams or translations) are also non-refundable

DIY Tip: Double-check every document and requirement before submitting to protect your investment.

Step 7: Why Understanding the Cost Matters

• The Partner Visa 820/801 is one of the most expensive visas in Australia, reflecting the complexity of assessment
• Knowing your costs upfront helps you plan finances, gather evidence, and avoid delays
• Budgeting appropriately ensures you are financially prepared for processing times, which in 2026 can be 12–24 months for the 820 stage

Final Thoughts

For DIY applicants, the Partner Visa 820 cost is more than just the application fee:

• Expect $8,085 AUD for the main applicant
• Additional expenses include dependents, health checks, police certificates, translations, and optional professional help
• Careful planning and budgeting reduce stress and prevent mistakes that could lead to refusal or delays

Pro Tip: Treat the cost as an investment in your permanent residency. Preparing thoroughly ensures your application process is smooth and maximises your chance of success.

✅ Quick Recap

• Main application fee (2026): $8,085 AUD
• Dependent children: $4,045 each
• Additional costs: health checks, police certificates, translations, optional professional services
• Fees are non-refundable, even if refused
• Budgeting and careful preparation save time, money, and stress

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

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