If you’re planning to live with your partner in Australia permanently, applying for the Partner Visa 820 is an important step. This temporary visa allows you to stay in Australia while your permanent Partner Visa 801 is being processed. Understanding the partner visa 820 processing time and having a clear partner visa 820 checklist can make your application smoother and faster.
In this article, we’ll break down the essential steps involved in applying for the Partner Visa 820, provide a detailed checklist of required documents, and explain the typical processing time so you know what to expect in 2025.
What is Partner Visa 820?
Partner Visa 820 (Temporary) is granted to applicants who are either inside Australia and in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It is the first stage before applying for the permanent Partner Visa 801.
This visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia while waiting for the permanent visa decision. But before you apply, it’s crucial to know the application steps and prepare your documents carefully.
Partner Visa 820 Application Steps
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To apply for the Partner Visa 820, you need to:
Be physically present in Australia when you apply.
Be married to or in a de facto relationship with an eligible partner.
Prove your relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Meet health and character requirements.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Use the partner visa 820 checklist to gather all necessary documents. This typically includes:
Identity documents (passport, birth certificate).
Evidence of your relationship (photos, joint financial documents, letters, social media posts).
Health examination reports.
Police clearance certificates.
Form 47SP (application for a partner visa).
Form 40SP (sponsor’s details).
Marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship.
Step 3: Lodge Your Application
You can apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Ensure your application is complete and all documents are attached. Incomplete applications may lead to delays.
Step 4: Wait for Acknowledgment and Further Requests
After lodging, you’ll receive an acknowledgment letter. The Department may request additional documents or an interview to verify your relationship.
Step 5: Decision on Temporary Visa 820
Once all requirements are met, and your application is assessed, you will receive a decision. If granted, you can stay in Australia legally while awaiting the permanent Partner Visa 801.
Partner Visa 820 Checklist: Key Documents
Having a comprehensive partner visa 820 checklist can help prevent delays. Here are the main documents you should prepare:
Identity Documents:
Valid passport copies (all pages with stamps or visas).
Birth certificate.
National ID card (if applicable).
Relationship Evidence:
Marriage certificate (if married).
Evidence of living together (lease agreements, utility bills).
Joint bank account statements.
Photos together over time.
Travel records showing time spent together.
Statutory declarations from friends and family supporting your relationship.
Sponsor’s Documents:
Australian citizenship or permanent residency evidence.
Sponsor’s ID and passport copies.
Relationship statement from sponsor.
Health and Character:
Completed health examinations.
Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for 12 months or more since age 16.
Additional Forms:
Form 47SP: Application for a Partner Visa.
Form 40SP: Sponsor’s details.
Form 888: Statutory declarations for relationship (completed by friends or family).
Partner Visa 820 Processing Time in 2025
One of the most common questions applicants ask is about the partner visa 820 processing time. Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances and the volume of applications.
As of 2025, the estimated processing time for the Partner Visa 820 is approximately 16 to 24 months. However, some cases may be processed faster if all documents are correctly submitted and no further information is required.
Factors that can affect processing time include:
Completeness of the application.
Whether additional documents or interviews are requested.
Background checks and security assessments.
Changes in immigration policies or application volume.
To avoid delays, always use the most up-to-date partner visa 820 checklist and respond promptly to any Department requests.
Tips to Speed Up Your Partner Visa 820 Application
Double-check your application for completeness before submitting.
Include certified translations for any documents not in English.
Submit all required forms and supporting documents together.
Keep copies of everything you submit.
Maintain clear communication with your migration agent or the Department.
Prepare for possible interviews by gathering additional relationship evidence.
Conclusion
Applying for the Partner Visa 820 is a crucial part of the journey to permanent residency in Australia. Being aware of the partner visa 820 processing time and having a detailed partner visa 801 checklist can help you stay organized and reduce delays.
Make sure your relationship evidence is strong and your forms are correctly completed. If needed, consult a registered migration agent to guide you through the process.
If you follow these steps carefully, you’ll be well on your way to securing your Partner Visa 820 and eventually obtaining permanent residency through the Partner Visa 801.
