Are you searching for:
- How long does it take to get an 801 visa after receiving an 820 visa? Or
- Do you know what steps are involved and how you can make the process smoother?
Because if you’re planning to stay in Australia permanently with your partner, it is important to understand the timeline and requirements for partner visas.
Learn everything related to the transition from the 820 visa to the 801 visa, including the typical waiting period, factors affecting processing time, and more in this blog.
How Long Does it Take to Get 801 Visa After 820?
On average, it takes around 24 months (2 years) from the date of your 820 visa application to receive the 801 visa. This waiting period allows the Department of Home Affairs to assess the genuineness and stability of your relationship.
The application process for the 820 and 801 visas is combined, meaning you apply for both at the same time. However, the 801 visa is processed separately and usually takes longer to be granted.
Factors Affecting Processing Time
These are the factors that can affect the processing time of your partner visa application:
- Completeness of Application: Ensure all required documents are submitted and correctly filled out.
- Documentation Requirements: Providing thorough and accurate evidence of your relationship can speed up the process.
- Changes in Personal Circumstances: Report any changes in your relationship status, address, or other personal details to avoid delays.
Tips for Fast Processing of Your Partner Visa
While the processing time for the 801 visa can be lengthy, there are several steps you can take to help ensure your application is processed as quickly as possible.
- Before submitting your application, make sure all sections are filled out correctly and all required documents are included.
- Submit clear and comprehensive evidence of your relationship, such as joint bank account statements, lease agreements, and photos together.
- Keep a checklist of all documents and requirements to ensure nothing is missed.
- If there are any changes in your personal circumstances, inform the Department of Home Affairs immediately.
- Regularly update your application with any new evidence of your ongoing relationship.
- Use the online portal to check the status of your application and ensure all required documents have been received.
- If there are any delays or issues, follow up with the Department of Home Affairs to get updates and provide any additional information they may need.
However, if you don’t know much about the partner visa 801 and 820, here is a brief overview of both:
Partner Visas (Subclass 820 and 801): General Overview
Both these subclasses are for onshore candidates (must be in Australia at the time of application submission).
Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820)
The 820 visa is the first step towards permanent residency for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This temporary visa allows you to live in Australia while your permanent partner visa (subclass 801) is processed.
To be eligible for this visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- You must be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner.
- You need to be in Australia when you apply for this visa.
- You must meet health and character requirements.
These are the benefits of subclass 820 partner visas:
- You can live, work, and study in Australia.
- You have access to Medicare, Australia’s healthcare system.
- However, it’s a temporary visa, so you’ll need to wait for the 801 visa to gain permanent residency.
Once you hold a temporary partner visa 820 for two years, you will be eligible for subclass 801. What is it? Discover below.
Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)
The 801 visa is the permanent stage of the partner visa process. Once granted, it allows you to stay in Australia indefinitely. However, to be eligible for this visa, you must hold a temporary 820 visa.
Furthermore, you need to continue to be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner. And you must meet health and character requirements.
Here are some of the benefits of a partner visa 801 in Australia:
- You can get permanent residency in Australia.
- With this visa, you will have the right to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- You will have access to Medicare and other social security benefits.
- You will be eligible for Australian citizenship (if applicable).
How Can You Apply for Partner Visas (Subclass 820 and 801) in Australia?
The general application process consists of the following steps:
Step 1: Initial Application for 820 Visa
- Submit your application online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Provide all necessary documents, including proof of your relationship, identity documents, and health and character checks.
- Pay the visa application fee.
Step 2: Transition to 801 Visa
- After holding the 820 visa for about two years, you can apply for the 801 visa.
- You will need to provide updated evidence of your relationship and any other required documents.
- The Department of Home Affairs will review your application and, if everything is in order, grant you the 801 visa.
Final Thoughts
Getting the 801 visa after the 820 visa is a significant step towards permanent residency in Australia. While the process can be lengthy and sometimes challenging, being well-prepared and informed can make a big difference.
Remember to stay organised, keep your information up-to-date, and seek help if needed. Schedule an online consultation and get help from the experts at The Migration. We have a MARA-certified agent on our team who has a wide range of experience in providing Australian immigration consultation.
Contact us now and get customised solutions for your problems at affordable rates.
Related Articles:
What is a Permanent Partner Visa 801 in Australia?
Onshore Temporary Partner Visa 820 in Australia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get the 801 visa in 2024?
The processing time for the 801 visa in 2024 can vary. Generally, it takes about 24 months from the date you applied for the 820 visa to receive the 801 visa.
However, it depends on several factors, including the completeness of your application and any changes in your personal circumstances.
Can 820 and 801 be granted together?
Yes, in some cases, the 820 and 801 visas can be granted together. This is often referred to as a “double grant.”
To qualify for this, you need to demonstrate that you have been in a long-term relationship (at least three years) or have been in a relationship for at least two years and have a child together.
Meeting these criteria can help you bypass the usual waiting period between the two visa stages.
How can I speed up my 801 visa?
Follow these instructions to speed up the processing of an 801 visa in Australia:
- Ensure all required documents are included and correctly filled out.
- Submit comprehensive evidence of your relationship, such as joint financial commitments and social activities.
- Notify the Department of Home Affairs promptly of any changes in your personal circumstances.
- In exceptional circumstances, such as financial hardship or urgent personal reasons, you can request priority processing.
What happens after an 820 visa is granted?
After your 820 visa is granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia while your 801 visa application is processed. You will need to continue to provide evidence of your ongoing relationship and meet any additional requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Typically, you can apply for the 801 visa about two years after your 820 visa. Once the 801 visa is granted, you will gain permanent residency in Australia.
I, Samavia Shahid, am a researcher and content writer at The Migration. I create easy-to-understand and informative content for people who want to move to Australia. My goal is to make the migration process simpler and less stressful for everyone.