How to Apply for Partner Visa Subclass 801 in Australia

If you’ve already secured your temporary partner visa 820, the next milestone in your journey is the partner visa 801. This visa grants permanent residency in Australia, allowing you to stay, work, and build your life alongside your partner without the uncertainty of temporary status.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the 801 partner visa—including eligibility, documentation, processing time, and what to expect after it's granted.

What Is the Partner Visa 801?

The partner visa subclass 801 is the second stage of Australia’s partner visa pathway. It follows the temporary subclass 820 visa and is granted to applicants who are still in a genuine relationship with their sponsoring partner two years after they first applied.

Once approved, the 801 visa gives you permanent residency in Australia. This means you can stay indefinitely, access Medicare, apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible), and sponsor family members.

Who Can Apply for the 801 Partner Visa?

To apply for the partner visa 801, you must:

• Have previously been granted a partner visa subclass 820

• Still be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your sponsor

• Provide updated evidence of your relationship

• Continue to meet character and health requirements

If your relationship has ended due to family violence or the death of your partner, you may still be eligible under special provisions.

When Can You Apply?

The 801 partner visa is not a separate application; you already apply for it when you submit your original 820 visa application. However, Immigration will assess your eligibility for the 801 visa about two years after your initial application date.

At that time, they’ll request updated documents to confirm that your relationship is still ongoing and genuine.

Documents You’ll Need for the 801 Visa

To move forward with your partner visa subclass 801, you’ll need to submit updated relationship evidence. This typically includes:

• Joint financial documents (shared bills, bank accounts)

• Updated statutory declarations from both partners

• Statements from friends or family about your relationship

• Evidence of shared responsibilities (rent, utilities, children, etc.)

• Photos, travel records, and communication logs

Consistency is key—your updated documents should show a clear, continued relationship since your 820 visa was granted.

Processing Time for the Partner Visa 801

Processing times for the 801 partner visa vary depending on how complete your documentation is and how busy the department is. As of 2025:

• 75% of applications are processed within 12 months

• 90% of applications are finalized within 18 months

Submitting all requested information promptly can help reduce delays.

What If Your Relationship Ends Before the 801 Is Granted?

If your relationship ends before the partner visa 801 is finalized, don’t panic. You may still be eligible for the visa in some situations, such as:

• Domestic or family violence

• If your partner passes away

• If you have custody of children from the relationship

You’ll need to inform the Department of Home Affairs and provide evidence that supports your case.

Rights and Benefits of the Partner Visa Subclass 801

Once you’re granted the partner visa subclass 801, you’ll enjoy all the rights of an Australian permanent resident, including:

• Live and work in Australia indefinitely

• Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system)

• Sponsor eligible family members

• Apply for Australian citizenship (after meeting residency criteria)

• Study in Australia without needing a separate student visa

You can also travel in and out of the country freely, although it’s wise to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) if you’re planning extended time overseas.

Helpful Tips to Prepare for the 801 Stage

Here are a few tips to make the process smoother:

1. Keep detailed records of your relationship from day one.

2. Update your contact details with Immigration regularly.

3. Start preparing early—don’t wait for the Department’s reminder.

4. Seek help from a registered migration agent if unsure about requirements.

Final Thoughts

The partner visa 801 is more than just a visa—it’s the key to permanent residency and security in Australia. After the wait and stress of temporary status, the 801 visa gives couples the peace of mind to move forward with life, family, and long-term plans.

By preparing thoroughly, keeping your documentation up to date, and maintaining open communication with your partner and the Department, you can make this final step a smooth and successful one.