The Provisional Partner Visa (Subclass 820) is the first stage of a combined onshore partner visa application lodged with the Department of Home Affairs. It permits the applicant to remain in Australia lawfully, work without limitations, and enrol in Medicare from the date of application lodgement.
Key Eligibility Requirements
-
Eligible Sponsor: Your partner must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who has not sponsored more than 2 partners previously.
-
Present in Australia: You must be physically inside Australia when lodging the application and when the Subclass 820 visa is granted.
-
Married or De Facto Relationship: Legally married under Australian law or recognized overseas marriage, OR in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months (or relationship registered with an Australian state/territory registry).
-
Genuine and Continuing: Satisfy the Department across financial, household, social, and commitment pillars.
Transitioning from 820 to 801 Permanent Residence
Two years after lodging the combined 820/801 application, the Department invites you to submit updated relationship evidence confirming that your relationship remains genuine and continuing. Upon approval, Subclass 801 permanent residency is granted.