Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801): Costs, Timelines, and Proof

Imagine finally bringing your loved one to Australia to build a life together, only to face a mountain of paperwork, fees, and waiting times. For Aussies sponsoring a partner for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801), understanding the costs, timelines, and proof required can make all the difference. This onshore visa pathway lets your spouse or de facto partner live, work, and study in Australia while their application is processed, leading to permanent residency.

Whether you're in Sydney sharing a flat or planning a future in Perth, getting it right from the start avoids delays and refusals. We'll break down everything you need to know for 2026, with practical tips tailored for Australian couples.

What Are Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801)?

The Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) is an onshore option for applicants already in Australia. It's a two-stage process: first, the temporary Subclass 820 visa, then the permanent Subclass 801 visa about two years later. Your partner can stay in Australia on a Bridging Visa during processing, with full rights to work, study, and access Medicare.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify, your partner must be your spouse or de facto partner, and you must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Key requirements include:

• A genuine and continuing relationship – proven across four pillars: financial, household, social, and commitment.
• For de facto couples (not married): usually 12 months living together, unless you've registered your relationship in a state like NSW or VIC.
• Health checks (medical exams) and character checks (police clearances from countries lived in for 12+ months over the last 10 years).
• Intention to live together permanently in Australia.

No ties to Australia are required anymore for applicants with deceased sponsors, and Prospective Marriage visa (300) holders can apply without marrying.

Costs for Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801) in 2026

Visa fees are a big upfront cost, but remember, the initial payment covers both stages – no extra for the permanent visa later. As of the 2025/26 program year (current into 2026), base charges are:

Visa	Main Applicant	Additional Applicant (18+)	Additional Applicant (<18)
820/801 (onshore)	A$9,365	A$4,685	A$2,345

Fees may rise on 1 July 2026, so apply early if possible. Additional costs include:

• Health exams: A$350–A$500 per person.
• Police checks: A$50–A$100 per country.
• Biometrics: A$50–A$100 if required.
• Migration agent fees: A$2,000–A$5,000 (optional but recommended for complex cases).
• Translation of documents: A$80+ per page.

Pro tip: Budget A$10,000–A$15,000 total for a straightforward application. Use the Department of Home Affairs fee calculator for the latest figures, and check if you qualify for concessions (rare for partner visas).

Timelines for Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801) in 2026

Processing times vary based on application quality, workload, and completeness. Latest 2026 estimates:

Visa Stage	50% Processed	90% Processed
Subclass 820 (Temporary)	~17 months	~24 months
Subclass 801 (Permanent)	~7 months	~13 months

Submit both stages together online via ImmiAccount. A Bridging Visa A (BVA) kicks in immediately if your current visa expires, letting your partner stay lawfully. Track progress via VEVO, and expect requests for more info (RFIs) if evidence is weak – this adds 3–6 months.

Aussie example: Couples in Melbourne on visitor visas often apply onshore but need compelling reasons to avoid section 48 bars (no new visas onshore after unlawful stay).

Proof Required: Building a Strong Partner Visa Application

Evidence is the make-or-break element. The Department assesses your relationship across the four pillars. No single document wins it – provide 200–300 pages of varied, recent proof.

Financial Aspects

• Joint bank accounts, loans, or superannuation nominations.
• Shared bills (Telstra, electricity), Centrelink statements, or one partner supporting the other.
• Joint purchases like a car rego or home loan.

Nature of Household

• Joint lease/mortgage, utility bills addressed to both.
• Shared chores evidence: photos of home, affidavits from housemates.
• Mail/statements to the same address.

Social Aspects

• Photos together (label dates/locations: e.g., Bondi Beach 2025).
• Joint invites (wedding, parties), social media posts.
• Statutory declarations from friends/family (2–4 minimum).

Commitment (Nature of Relationship)

• Personal statements detailing how you met, future plans (e.g., kids, house in Brisbane).
• Relationship timeline, knowledge of each other's families.
• Proof of ongoing contact if apart (chats, calls).

Practical tips:

1. Start collecting 2 years before applying – digital folders work best.
2. Register de facto status via BDM in your state (e.g., NSW Registry) to skip 12-month rule.
3. Include kids' birth certs if shared, or wills naming each other.
4. Avoid templates; make it personal – e.g., "We BBQ every Sunday with mates in the Blue Mountains."
5. For Subclass 801, update with 2 years' fresh evidence.

"Evidence of your long-term plans together and your history as a couple" is key to commitment.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Refusals often stem from weak evidence or sponsor issues. Ensure your sponsor isn't bankrupt or with visa refusals. If violence ends the relationship, family violence provisions apply – contact 1800RESPECT or Legal Aid. Use a registered migration agent (MARA-registered) for complex cases like prior overstays.

Next Steps to Secure Your Partner Visa

Ready to start? Log into ImmiAccount, gather evidence, and lodge online. Double-check forms 47SP (sponsor) and 40SP (applicant). Track via VEVO and respond to RFIs within 28 days. For personalised help, consult a MARA agent or the Department’s free info line (131 881). With solid prep, you’ll be celebrating permanency together sooner. Good luck, Aussies – love knows no borders Down Under!