Understanding the Partner Visa 820
Australia, with its breathtaking landscapes and dynamic culture, beckons individuals from across the globe hoping to start anew. For many, the dream of relocating is intertwined with the desire to create a future alongside their Australian partner. The Partner Visa (subclass 820), a temporary visa leading to permanent residency, marks the essential first step in this exciting journey. However, navigating the complexities of this visa demands careful planning and a solid understanding of its requirements. The subclass 820 is an onshore visa option, whereas, Australian spouse visa, subclass 309, is an offshore category.
The 820 visa is intended for those who are married to, or in a de facto relationship with, an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa allows applicants to live, work, and study in Australia while awaiting the approval of their permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801). The 820 is a provisional visa, acting as a bridge to permanent residency.
Establishing the Foundation of a Genuine Relationship
One of the most important elements of the application process is demonstrating that the relationship is genuine and ongoing. This goes beyond filling out forms; it involves proving the depth of your shared life. The Department of Home Affairs evaluates several factors to ensure the authenticity of the relationship, such as:
- Financial Aspects: Shared bank accounts, property ownership, and financial interdependence.
- Living Arrangements: Proof of living together, sharing household duties, and other signs of a shared domestic life.
- Social Aspects: Evidence of presenting yourselves as a couple in social situations, engaging in joint activities, and providing mutual support.
- Commitment: Evidence of a long-term future, such as plans for the future, wills, and communication history.
Gathering comprehensive evidence is critical to your success. This might include statutory declarations from friends and family, photographs, travel records, and detailed personal statements about the evolution of your relationship. The goal is to prove that the relationship is legitimate, not merely a strategy to obtain a visa.
The Application Process: Online and Detailed
The application process for the 820 visa is primarily conducted online via the ImmiAccount portal. Applicants need to submit detailed personal information, including identification documents, police clearances, and medical examination results. The sponsor (the Australian partner) also plays an important role, providing supporting documentation and demonstrating their commitment to the relationship.
One key factor to understand is the definition of a “de facto relationship.” For this visa, couples must demonstrate they have been living together for at least 12 months unless they have registered their relationship in certain jurisdictions.
Waiting for Approval: What to Expect
Processing times for the 820 visa can be lengthy, often taking several months. This waiting period can be a source of stress, highlighting the importance of accurate and thorough preparation. Once the visa is granted, applicants are allowed to live, work, and study in Australia, but the journey is far from over.
The Path to Permanent Residency: The 801 Visa
Two years after receiving the 820 visa, applicants can apply for the Partner Visa 801, which grants permanent residency. This stage includes a reassessment of the relationship, confirming that it remains genuine and ongoing.
Expert Advice: The Value of Professional Guidance
The Partner Visa 820 offers a pathway to a new life in Australia, but it is a complex and often challenging process. Seeking guidance from a registered migration agent can make the application smoother and more successful. Understanding the intricacies of the visa requirements, providing solid evidence, and keeping open lines of communication with the Department of Home Affairs are key steps in turning your dream of a future together in Australia into reality.