801 Visa
801 Visa: Permanent Partner Visa Guide for Australia
The 801 visa, officially known as the Partner (Permanent) visa (subclass 801), is the second stage of a two-step process for individuals in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa allows you to live permanently in Australia with your partner and access a wide range of benefits as a permanent resident.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 801 visa, including eligibility, requirements, timeline, and tips for a successful application.
What Is the 801 Visa?
The 801 visa grants permanent residency to the partner or spouse of an eligible Australian. You must first have applied for the 820 visa (temporary partner visa) and have maintained a genuine relationship for a certain period—usually 2 years—before being assessed for the 801 visa.
Who Can Apply for the 801 Visa?
To be eligible for the subclass 801 visa, you must:
Hold a subclass 820 (temporary partner visa)
Be in a genuine, ongoing relationship with your sponsor (married or de facto)
Have provided updated relationship evidence after two years from your original 820/801 combined application
Continue to meet health and character requirements
Be in Australia at the time of the visa decision
801 Visa Requirements
When it comes time for the 801 stage assessment, the Department of Home Affairs will ask you to submit additional and updated documentation to prove your relationship is still genuine and continuing.
Here’s what’s typically required:
Updated Relationship Evidence
Joint financial accounts (bank statements, utility bills)
Lease or mortgage documents
Social proof (photos, joint travel)
Communication records
Statutory declarations from friends and family
Identity Documents
Current passport
Birth certificate or national ID (if required)
Police Clearances
Updated police checks for any country you’ve lived in since your 820 visa was granted
Sponsor Evidence
Confirmation your sponsor is still eligible and willing to support you
When Can You Apply for the 801 Visa?
You can generally provide the required information for the 801 visa two years after your initial partner visa application (820/801). The Department will send you a request to supply updated documentation when you become eligible for assessment.
801 Visa Processing Time
Processing times for the 801 visa vary depending on individual circumstances, but as of 2025:
75% of applications are processed within 8 months
90% of applications are processed within 14 months
Benefits of the 801 Visa
Once granted, the 801 visa provides you with the following benefits:
Live permanently in Australia
Work and study without restrictions
Enrol in Medicare (Australia's public healthcare system)
Sponsor family members for visas
Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
Travel in and out of Australia freely
Special Circumstances: Early Grant of 801 Visa
In some cases, you may be granted the 801 visa without waiting the full 2 years, particularly if:
You have been in a long-term relationship (3+ years, or 2+ years with children) at the time of your 820 application
There are compassionate or compelling circumstances, such as domestic violence
Tips for a Successful 801 Visa Outcome
Keep collecting evidence even after your 820 visa is granted
Maintain joint financial and living arrangements
Document your relationship milestones (anniversaries, joint purchases, travel)
Respond promptly to any Department requests
Consider using a registered migration agent for guidance
Final Thoughts
The 801 visa is a key step toward permanent residency in Australia for couples who are committed to building a life together. Being proactive with documentation and understanding the 801 visa requirements can make a significant difference in how smoothly your application is processed.
Need help with your 801 visa application?
Our migration professionals can guide you every step of the way. Contact us for a consultation today!
