Introduction
Partner Visa 801 is an Australian Permanent Residence visa for individuals who are partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. It is granted to applicants who have already been approved for the temporary Partner Visa 820. Once granted, you can live in Australia indefinitely, access social security benefits, and travel in and out of the country.
Key Benefits of Visa 801
Visa 801 is a permanent visa, so you can receive the full benefits of a permanent resident, for instances:
- You can live and work anywhere in Australia permanently.
- You may be eligible to sponsor other family members for Australian visas.
- You can enjoy healthcare benefits similar to Australian citizens.
- You may be eligible for Australian government welfare payments.
- After holding the visa 801 for one year and living in Australia for 4 consecutive years, you may apply for Australian citizenship.
Processing Time for the Permanent Residence Visa 801
The application process for the 820 and 801 visas is combined, meaning that you apply for both visas at the same time. However, you normally will receive the 820 visa first and the 801 visa is processed separately and usually takes longer to be granted.
The processing time for the Permanent Residence Visa 801 varies, depending on several factors, including:
- The volume of applications received by the Department of Home Affairs.
- The complexity of your case.
- Whether additional documents or information are required.
You may need to wait up to 2 years from the date your 820 visa was granted until you get an 801 visa. This waiting period allows the Department of Home Affairs to assess the genuineness and stability of your relationship.
How to Speed Up the Visa Processing Time
Although the processing time for the Permanent Residence Visa 801 can be lengthy, you can take several steps to improve your chances of a quicker grant.
- Complete and accurate application: One of the most common reasons for delays is submitting incomplete or inaccurate applications. It’s advisable that all sections of your Partner Visa application (820) are filled out thoroughly and truthfully.
- Evidence of relationship: It’s essential that you must attach all required documents to demonstrate your relationship, such as joint bank account statements, lease agreements, bills in both names and photos together. Please make sure to submit clear and comprehensive documents and no required document is missed out.
- Update your application: If there are any changes in your personal circumstances, such as changing the home address, having a child or buying a home together, you should submit these updated documents immediately. Especially, if you have any new evidence to show your relationship is on-going, upload it to the application as soon as possible. This shows your commitment to the application and can avoid additional requests for information that may slow the process.
- Check your application regularly: Use the online portal to check the status of your application and ensure all required documents have been received.
Conclusion
The application process for a partner visa can be complicated as you must demonstrate your relationship with your partner is genuine and on-going. This process involves various relationship statements and evidence. Lacking one of the documents can lead to the delays of the visa assessment process. Want to avoid the delay and stress? Contact Experienced Registered Migration Agent today!
FAQs
How long does it take to get the 801 visa?
It can take up to 24 months from the date of visa 820 being granted to receive an 801 visa.
Is it possible to get 820 and 801 visas at the same time?
Yes. In some special cases, the visa 820 and visa 801 can be granted at the same time. To be eligible for this, normally, you must show that you have a very long-term relationship with your partner and/or you and your partner have children together.
Can I apply for the 801 visa without the 820 visa?
No, the Visa 801 is granted only after you are approved for the Temporary Partner Visa 820. You must first be granted the 820 visa before you can apply for the 801 visa.
What happens if I don’t receive my 801 visa after two years?
If you have met all the requirements for the visa and have provided all necessary information, but your application is still not processed after two years, you may need to follow up with the Department of Home Affairs. In some cases, delays could be due to missing documents or requiring additional checks.