The Subclass 820 Partner visa (temporary) is the first step toward permanent residency for partners of Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa allows you to live in Australia while the Department of Home Affairs processes your permanent Partner visa (subclass 801) application.
Benefits of the Subclass 820 Visa
Holders of a Subclass 820 visa are entitled to several rights while residing in Australia:
- Work and Study: You have full rights to work and study in Australia.
- Medicare: You can enrol in Australia’s public healthcare scheme, Medicare.
- Travel: You may travel to and from Australia as many times as you wish while the visa is valid.
- English Classes: You may access up to 500 hours of free English language classes through the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Subclass 820 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Relationship Status: You must be the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Location: You must be in Australia when you lodge your application and when the Department makes a decision on the temporary visa.
- Age: Generally, you and your partner must be 18 years or older.
- Health and Character: You must meet the Department’s health and character requirements, which include providing police clearances and undergoing medical examinations.
Application Fees (2026 Rates)
As of April 2026, the Department of Home Affairs has updated the Visa Application Charge (VAC). The fee paid at this stage covers both the temporary (Subclass 820) and the permanent (Subclass 801) visa applications.
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Main Applicant | $9,365 |
| Additional Applicant (Over 18) | $4,685 |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | $2,345 |
Note: If you hold or have held a Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300), the base charge for the Subclass 820 application is $1,560.
Processing Times
Processing times can fluctuate based on application volumes and the complexity of individual cases. The Department of Home Affairs evaluates applications based on the 50% and 90% percentile benchmarks.
Current 2026 Processing Benchmarks:
- 50% of applications: Finalised within 16 months.
- 90% of applications: Finalised within 24 months.
To ensure efficient processing, ensure your application is "decision-ready" by providing all required relationship evidence and front-loading your medical checks and police certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I include my children in the application?
Yes, you can include dependent children in your application. They must meet health and character requirements, and additional applicant charges will apply based on their age.
Do I need to provide a mobile number for communication?
Yes. You should provide a current mobile number and email address in your ImmiAccount. The Department uses these details to provide status updates and request further information.
What happens if my relationship ends before the permanent visa is granted?
In some circumstances, such as cases involving domestic violence or if you have a child with your partner, you may still be eligible for the permanent visa. It is critical to notify the Department of any change in circumstances immediately.
Is there a separate fee for the Subclass 801 visa?
No. The fee paid during the Subclass 820 lodgement covers the assessment for both the temporary and permanent stages.
