How to Apply for the Partner Visa Subclass 801

If you’ve already started your journey with a temporary partner visa and are now looking to settle in Australia permanently with your partner, then the partner visa 801 is your next big step. This visa represents more than just paperwork—it’s a symbol of stability, commitment, and the chance to call Australia home for good.

Let’s take a closer look at the 801 partner visa, the process involved, the documentation required, and what to expect in terms of wait times and outcomes.

What Is the Partner Visa 801?

The partner visa subclass 801 is the permanent stage of Australia’s two-part partner visa program. Applicants typically move to this stage after holding a partner visa 820, which allows temporary residence.

Once the partner visa 801 Australia is granted, you’ll enjoy full permanent resident rights, including:

• The ability to live and work in Australia indefinitely

• Access to Medicare

• The right to apply for Australian citizenship (after meeting eligibility)

• Sponsorship rights for eligible relatives

• Travel freedom in and out of Australia

It’s a huge milestone in your visa journey and in your life with your partner.

Partner Visa 801 Checklist: What You’ll Need

To apply for the partner visa 801, you’ll need to provide evidence that your relationship is still genuine and continuing since the original partner visa was granted.

Here’s a simplified partner visa 801 checklist to guide you:

• Updated statutory declarations from both partners describing how the relationship has developed

• Evidence of shared financial commitments (e.g., joint accounts, shared bills)

• Proof of cohabitation (joint lease, mail addressed to the same address)

• Photos and communication records showing ongoing contact

• Statements from friends or family confirming the authenticity of your relationship

• Police clearance certificates (if requested)

• Any new birth certificates if children have been born since the last visa was granted

You may not be asked for everything upfront, but preparing these documents early helps avoid processing delays.

How Long Does It Take? Partner Visa 801 Processing Time

One of the most common questions applicants ask is: How long does it take to get the 801 visa approved?

As of early 2025, the partner visa 801 processing time typically ranges from 8 to 16 months after you're eligible to apply (usually 2 years after you initially applied for the 820/801 combined application).

However, the timeline can vary depending on:

• How complete your evidence is

• How quickly you respond to any additional information requests

• Your personal situation (e.g., health or character checks)

• The overall backlog with the Department of Home Affairs

If your case is straightforward and well-documented, you may fall on the shorter end of the timeframe.

The Transition from 820 to 801 Partner Visa

You don’t need to lodge a completely new application to move to the permanent visa. When you applied for the 820, you actually submitted a combined application for both the temporary and permanent partner visa stages.

Two years after your initial application date, the Department of Home Affairs will contact you and request updated information for the partner visa 801 assessment.

Here’s what happens next:

1. You’ll receive an invitation to provide additional relationship evidence.

2. Once you submit your updated documents, your application will be assessed.

3. If approved, your partner visa subclass 801 will be granted, giving you permanent residency.

What Happens After You Get the 801 Partner Visa?

Once your 801 partner visa is approved, you can:

• Stay in Australia indefinitely

• Access all public healthcare services through Medicare

• Travel in and out of the country without restriction (though be mindful of residency requirements for citizenship)

• Work and study freely

• Eventually apply for Australian citizenship, provided you meet residency and character requirements

Many couples see this moment as a turning point—officially being able to settle in Australia without ongoing visa concerns is a major relief.

Final Thoughts

The partner visa 801 Australia is more than a legal formality. It’s a celebration of enduring relationships and a testament to your commitment to building a life together. While the partner visa 801 processing time can test your patience, having a clear plan and a strong partner visa 801 checklist will make the experience smoother and more predictable.