Subclass 820 / 801 Partner visa (onshore)
Partners or spouses of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen, applying in Australia.
The Partner visa (onshore) (subclass 820 / 801) is an Australian family & partner visa. This guide covers who the 820 / 801 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$9,365 (covers both stages)) and processing time (~12-24+ months for the 820 stage), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 820 / 801 visa is for
Partners or spouses of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen, applying in Australia.
The 801 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later (sooner for long-term or registered relationships).
Subclass 820 / 801 eligibility criteria
- A genuine and continuing relationship (married, or de facto 12+ months unless registered/exceptions apply)
- An eligible sponsor who meets sponsorship requirements
- Strong relationship evidence across the four pillars (financial, household, social, commitment)
- Meet health and character requirements
Subclass 820 / 801 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Partner visa (onshore) (subclass 820 / 801) is ~$9,365 (covers both stages), with an indicative processing time of ~12-24+ months for the 820 stage. Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary → Permanent |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore |
| Length of stay | 820 (temporary) then 801 (permanent) |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ~$9,365 (covers both stages) |
| Processing time | ~12-24+ months for the 820 stage |
| Pathway to PR | The 801 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later (sooner for long-term or registered relationships). |
Pathway & next steps
The 801 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later (sooner for long-term or registered relationships).
Many applicants also compare the 309 / 100 (Partner visa (offshore)), the 300 (Prospective Marriage visa), the 445 (Dependent Child visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 820 / 801 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 820 / 801 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 820 / 801 visa cost?
The Partner visa (onshore) (subclass 820 / 801) base application charge is ~$9,365 (covers both stages). Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 820 / 801 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~12-24+ months for the 820 stage. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 820 / 801 visa lead to permanent residence?
The 801 stage is permanent residence, usually assessed around 2 years later (sooner for long-term or registered relationships).
Can I work on the subclass 820 / 801 visa?
Work rights on the Partner visa (onshore) (subclass 820 / 801): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 820 / 801 visa?
Partners or spouses of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen, applying in Australia.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority