Partner visa process overview (subclass 820/801)

Immigration · AU

The general stages of an Australian partner visa application, from lodgement to permanent residency.

1. Lodge the temporary partner visa (subclass 820) application with supporting evidence. 2. Bridging visa — you generally remain lawfully in Australia while the application is processed. 3. Assessment — the Department reviews relationship and character evidence. 4. Temporary visa grant — subclass 820 is usually granted first. 5. Permanent visa (subclass 801) — assessed around 2 years after the initial application, based on the ongoing relationship.

Processing times and requirements change — always confirm current requirements with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer before lodging.

This is legal information, not legal advice.