Navigating the process of obtaining a permanent visa in Australia can be complex, especially when it involves loved ones. The Partner Visa 801 is designed for individuals who are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa offers a pathway to permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia while enjoying various benefits. In this blog, we will explore the essential aspects of the Partner Visa 801 and provide you with a clear understanding of its requirements, benefits, and application process. 

 

What is the Partner Visa 801? 

This is a permanent visa that allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live permanently in Australia. It is part of a two-stage visa process, where the first stage involves obtaining a temporary visa (Subclass 820), and the second stage is the permanent visa (Subclass 801). 

Temporary Visa (Subclass 820) 

Before being granted the Partner Visa 801, applicants must first hold the temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820). This visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily while your permanent visa application is being processed. During this period, you have the right to live, work, and study in Australia. The Subclass 820 visa typically serves as a bridging visa, granting you temporary residency until your Visa 801 is approved. 

Permanent Visa (Subclass 801) 

This 801 Visa is granted after you have held the Subclass 820 visa for a certain period, usually two years. This two-stage process ensures that the relationship is ongoing and genuine. Once this Visa 801 is granted, you will be able to live permanently in Australia. This visa also grants access to Medicare, Australia's public healthcare system, and certain social security benefits. Furthermore, after meeting the necessary residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. 

 

Eligibility Requirements for the Partner Visa 801 

To be eligible for this Visa 801, you must meet several criteria. These include: 

Relationship Requirements: 

You must be in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The relationship can be either as a spouse (married) or as a de facto partner (living together for at least 12 months). 

Health and Character Requirements:

 Both you and your partner must meet specific health and character requirements. This includes undergoing a medical examination and providing police clearance certificates. 

Sponsorship:

Your partner must agree to sponsor you for the visa, which includes providing financial support for the first two years of your permanent residency in Australia. 

Proof of Relationship:

 You will need to provide substantial evidence to demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship. This can include joint financial accounts, shared property, photographs, and statutory declarations from friends and family. 

 

Benefits of the Partner Visa 801 

This Partner Visa offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for those looking to build a life in Australia with their partner. Some of the key benefits include: 

Permanent Residency: 

This Visa grants you the right to live in Australia indefinitely, with the ability to work and study without any restrictions. 

Access to Healthcare:

 As a permanent resident, you will have access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, which covers a wide range of medical services. 

Social Security Benefits:

 After two years of holding this Visa, you may be eligible for certain social security benefits, including unemployment and sickness benefits. 

Pathway to Citizenship: 

This Visa is a direct pathway to Australian citizenship. Once you have met the residency requirements, you can apply to become an Australian citizen. 

 

Building a Future Together 

The Partner Visa 801 is more than just a visa; it's an opportunity to build a future with your loved one in Australia. With the security of permanent residency, access to healthcare, social benefits, and the potential for citizenship, this visa allows you to fully integrate into Australian society and create a stable and prosperous life together. 

Understanding the Partner Visa 801 is crucial for anyone considering this pathway. By carefully following the application process and ensuring all requirements are met, you can take significant steps towards securing a bright future in Australia.