801 Visa – Permanent Partner Visa Australia

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Secure Your Australian Residency with the 801 Visa

The 801 visa (Subclass 801 Partner Visa) is a permanent visa is a permanent visa for individuals who have held a temporary Subclass 820 Partner Visa and remain in a genuine, ongoing relationship with their Australian partner. It is the second stage in Australia’s partner visa pathway and grants full permanent residency rights.

This visa is ideal for couples who want to solidify their life together in Australia after completing the temporary stage.

What Is the Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)?

The visa subclass 801 is granted to onshore partner visa holders who:

Previously held the Subclass 820 Visa
Have maintained a genuine relationship with their sponsor
Have met all visa conditions, health, and character requirements

Once granted, the partner visa provides:

Permanent residency in Australia
Access to Medicare, Centrelink (subject to eligibility), and public education
Ability to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely

When Can I Apply for the visa 801 Australia?

The process begins two years after lodging your Subclass 820 application.

To progress to the visa, you must:

Still be in a genuine relationship with your sponsoring partner
Respond to the Department’s request for further evidence
Provide updated relationship and character information

Required Documents

You will be asked to submit updated supporting documents, which may include:

Relationship evidence (photos, travel records, joint finances, etc.)
Updated Form 888 declarations from family and friends
Police clearances (AFP and overseas if applicable)
Medical checks (if requested)
Change of circumstances forms if applicable (e.g. Form 1022)

We help clients prepare a tailored checklist to ensure nothing is missed.

Can I Get the partner visa 801 Earlier?

In some circumstances, you may be granted the 801 visa earlier than the standard two-year period. This can apply if:

You were in a long-term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with children) at the time of your 820 application
Your relationship is well-documented and stable

We can help prepare early decision submissions where eligible.

Processing Time (2025)

As of 2025:

50% of applications processed in ~8 months
90% processed in ~15 months

You can find official information on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Timely submission of updated documents helps reduce delays.

What Happens If Your Relationship Ends?

If your relationship ends after lodging the 820/801 application but before the permanent partner visa is granted, you may still be eligible if:

You or your children experienced family violence
Your partner has passed away
You are parenting a child of the relationship

Jade Immigration Lawyers can guide you through these sensitive situations and help protect your visa status.

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

Experienced in both stages of the partner visa process (820 + 801)
Support with relationship updates, complex cases, and health/character issues
Responsive, strategic advice tailored to your situation
Trusted by couples across Australia and worldwide

Book a Consultation

Choose the right consultation for your needs:

$75 – 15-minute introductory consultation
$250 – 45-minute consultation
Weekend appointments available
Credited toward your fees if you proceed with us

📞 Call us today on 0485 907 989 or book online
🏡 Serving clients across Australia and worldwide

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FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our 801 Partner Visa Australia services and processes. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact Jade Immigration Lawyers today!

How long does it take to get the visa 801 after applying for the 820 visa?

Most applicants become eligible for the 801 visa approximately 2 years after lodging the 820 visa. Processing can take 9–15 months once documents are submitted.

Can I get the partner visa faster if I’m in a long-term relationship?

Yes. If you were in a long-term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with a child) at the time of your 820 visa application, you may be eligible for an early grant of the 801 visa.

What happens if my relationship ends before I get the 801 permanent visa?

In certain circumstances, such as family violence, death of the sponsor, or if you share a child, you may still be eligible for the 801 visa. Legal advice is strongly recommended.

What documents do I need to provide for the permanent partner visa stage?

You’ll typically need updated relationship evidence, new Form 888 declarations, police checks, and any forms reflecting changes in circumstances. Medical checks may also be requested.