Understanding Australia Subclass 820 Visa (Partner Visa)
The Australia Subclass 820 visa is a temporary visa granted to applicants who are in a de facto relationship or are married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa is a crucial step in the Partner visa application process, providing holders with the opportunity to live and work in Australia while they await the decision on their permanent Subclass 801 Partner visa.
Once granted, the Subclass 820 visa permits visa holders to:
- Live and work in Australia.
- Access limited healthcare under Medicare.
- Travel to and from Australia while the application is being processed.
- Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 820 Visa
To qualify for the Subclass 820 visa, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, which are primarily based on the relationship with their Australian partner.
Here are the main eligibility criteria:
- Relationship Status: The applicant must be in a genuine and continuing de facto relationship or legally married to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Both partners must intend to live together permanently.
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Medical examinations and police clearances.
- Sponsor’s Eligibility: The sponsor (Australian partner) must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. The sponsor must not have been a sponsor for a partner visa application in the last 5 years.
- Visa Application: Applicants must apply for the Subclass 820 visa from within Australia.
Application Process for Subclass 820
The process of applying for a Subclass 820 visa involves several key steps:
- Gather Sponsorship Documentation
- Submit Application
- Wait for a Decision
- Temporary Visa Grant
Benefits of the Subclass 820 Visa
- Work Rights: Visa holders are permitted to work full-time while in Australia.
- Health Care: Subclass 820 visa holders have access to Australia’s public health care system, Medicare, for the duration of their stay.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Subclass 820 visa is the first step towards obtaining a permanent Partner visa (Subclass 801), typically granted two years after the Subclass 820 visa is issued.
- Travel: While this visa allows the holder to live in Australia, some visa holders can also travel in and out of the country while the visa is valid.
Subclass 820 Visa Processing Time
Processing times for the Subclass 820 visa can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the volume of applications at the time. However, on average, the processing time for Subclass 820 is around 10 to 19 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Australia Subclass 820 visa is a significant part of the Partner visa process, providing an essential pathway for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live and work in Australia. With its eligibility criteria, benefits, and requirements, it’s vital to ensure all necessary documents and evidence are submitted during the application process.
If you are in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, the Subclass 820 visa offers a fantastic opportunity to begin your life together in Australia while waiting for a permanent visa.