Overview
The Partner (subclass 801) visa is the permanent stage of the combined Subclass 820 and 801 application. It allows the de facto partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia indefinitely. Holders of this visa enjoy full work and study rights, access to Medicare, and a pathway toward Australian citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria
To remain eligible for the permanent Subclass 801 visa, you must generally meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Subclass 820 Visa: You must continue to hold your temporary Partner visa or a bridging visa issued after applying for the 820/801.
- Ongoing Relationship: You must demonstrate that your relationship with your sponsor remains genuine and continuing.
- Character Requirements: You must meet the Department of Home Affairs character standards.
- Two-Year Milestone: You are typically eligible for assessment two years after the initial date you lodged your combined 820/801 application.
Application Fees
As of 2026, the application fees for the combined Partner visa process are as follows. Please note that there is usually no additional base charge for the Subclass 801 stage, as it was paid during the initial Subclass 820 lodgement.
| Applicant Category | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Main Applicant | $9,365 |
| Additional Applicant (Over 18) | $4,685 |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | $2,345 |
Note: Other costs such as medical examinations, police certificates, and biometrics are paid separately to the relevant providers.
Processing Times
Processing times for the Subclass 801 visa can vary based on the volume of applications and the completeness of the evidence provided. According to the latest 2026 Department of Home Affairs data, the current benchmarks are:
- 50% of applications: Processed within 6 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 18 months.
To ensure your application falls within the faster percentile, ensure all relationship evidence is updated and your Mobile contact details are current in ImmiAccount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay a second fee for the Subclass 801 visa?
No. The base application charge you paid when you lodged your combined Subclass 820/801 application covers both the temporary and permanent stages.
Can I include a new dependent child in my 801 application?
Yes, you can include a dependent child before a decision is made on your permanent visa. If the child is outside Australia, a Subclass 101 Child visa may be required, which carries a 2026 base charge of $3,235.
Will my 801 visa be granted automatically after two years?
No. You must provide updated evidence to the Department of Home Affairs to prove your relationship is still genuine and ongoing. This usually happens two years after your initial application date.
What happens if my relationship ends before the 801 is granted?
In some circumstances, such as cases involving family violence or the death of a partner, you may still be eligible for the permanent visa. It is critical to seek professional advice immediately if your circumstances change.
