Everything You Need to Know About the Permanent Partner Visa 801 in Australia
Are you planning to join your partner in Australia permanently? The Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801) is the final step for partners or spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who want to live in Australia indefinitely. At A Class Immigration and Education Consultants, we explain the requirements, benefits, and application steps so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
What is the Permanent Partner Visa 801?
The Permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801) is granted to applicants who have already applied for, and hold, the temporary Partner Visa (subclass 820). The 801 visa allows successful applicants to live in Australia permanently, with full rights to work and study, access Medicare, and take steps toward Australian citizenship when eligible.
Key Benefits of the Permanent Partner Visa 801
- Permanent residency: Live in Australia indefinitely.
- Work and study: Full work and study rights without restriction.
- Healthcare: Access to Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare.
- Family sponsorship: Ability to sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency.
- Social security: Access to certain social security payments (subject to eligibility).
- Citizenship pathway: Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Permanent Partner Visa 801 you must first hold the temporary Partner Visa 820 (applied for together in most cases). In addition, you must meet several requirements, including:
Relationship Requirements
- Married or de facto: You must be legally married to, or in a de facto relationship with, your Australian partner. De facto relationships usually require evidence of living together for at least 12 months.
- Genuine and continuing relationship: You must demonstrate that your relationship is genuine, continuing, and committed.
- Shared life evidence: Proof of shared financial arrangements, household duties, social recognition as a couple, and mutual commitment.
Sponsorship
- Sponsor eligibility: Your partner must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Sponsorship obligations: The sponsor agrees to support you, which may include financial assistance and providing accommodation for the first two years.
Health and Character
- Health checks: You must meet health requirements which may include medical examinations.
- Character checks: Provide police clearance certificates from countries you have lived in to show good character.
The Application Process
Applying for the Permanent Partner Visa 801 is generally part of the combined partner visa application process. Below is an overview of the typical steps:
Step 1: Apply for the Temporary Partner Visa 820
You usually lodge a combined application for subclass 820 (temporary) and subclass 801 (permanent). Holding or being accepted for the 820 is a prerequisite for the 801.
Step 2: Wait for Eligibility
Generally you must wait about 2 years from the date of your 820 application for the Department of Home Affairs to assess your ongoing eligibility for the 801 visa. During this period you must continue to meet relationship and sponsorship requirements.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
Prepare documents that show your relationship remains genuine and continuing. Common documents include:
- Personal statements from both partners describing the relationship.
- Financial evidence such as joint bank accounts, shared bills, or joint loans.
- Household evidence like joint tenancy agreements, mortgage papers, or utility bills.
- Social evidence such as photos together, travel records, and invitations or cards showing you participate as a couple.
- Commitment evidence like wills, life insurance nominations, or long-term plans made together.
Step 4: Submit Additional Information
As you approach the eligibility period, the Department may request further evidence or updates to confirm your ongoing relationship. Provide comprehensive, well-organised documentation to minimise delays.
Step 5: Await Decision
Once all requested information is submitted, the Department of Home Affairs will make a decision. Processing times vary, so accurate, complete documentation helps speed up assessment.
Common Questions
How long does it take to process the Permanent Partner Visa 801?
Processing times vary but it commonly takes 12-24 months after you become eligible. The exact timeframe depends on application completeness and the Department’s current workload.
Can I travel while my 801 application is being processed?
Yes, you can travel if you hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA) with travel rights or if you apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to allow temporary travel overseas.
What happens if my relationship ends before the 801 is granted?
If the relationship ends before the 801 is granted, you must inform the Department immediately. The visa may be refused unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as domestic violence or the death of your partner.
Can I include my children in the 801 application?
Yes, dependent children can be included. Each dependent will need to meet health and character requirements and evidence of dependency must be provided.
How A Class Immigration and Education Consultants Can Help
The pathway from a temporary partner visa to permanent residency is important and sometimes complex. Our team at A Class Immigration and Education Consultants provides expert support to help you:
- Choose the right visa pathway and understand eligibility.
- Prepare and organise all required documentation.
- Provide one-on-one guidance through each step of the process.
- Offer up-to-date advice based on current immigration rules and procedures.
Take the Next Step
The Permanent Partner Visa 801 is a major milestone on your journey to building a life in Australia with your partner. With careful preparation and the right guidance, you can improve your chances of a smooth and successful outcome.
Book your appointment with A Class Immigration and Education Consultants today and let us guide you through the Permanent Partner Visa process.
