What this visa lets you do
- Live, work and study in Australia on the temporary visa (820) while your permanent visa (801) is processed
- Travel to and from Australia as many times as you want
- Apply for access to Medicare
- Attend free English classes through the Adult Migrant English Program, if eligible
- Move to permanent residence with the 801 visa, if eligible
Key requirements
- Be married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen
- Be in a genuine and continuing relationship
- Be sponsored by your partner
- Meet health and character requirements
Two stages, one application
You apply for the temporary (820) and permanent (801) visas at the same time. The 820 lets you stay in Australia until the 801 is decided.
Evidence mattersPartner visa processing times vary and can be long. Strong, well-organised evidence of your relationship is the single biggest factor you control.