Good News For Partner Visa
Transitioning from Temporary to Permanent Partner Visas
We’re pleased to share important updates for visa holders navigating Australia’s two-stage Partner visa process. If you hold a temporary Partner visa, either Subclass 309 (offshore) or Subclass 820 (onshore) and it’s been two years since you applied, you may now be eligible to progress to the permanent stage.
Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)
The Subclass 801 Partner visa (Permanent) allows de facto partners or spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently.
This visa is only applicable if you currently hold a temporary Partner visa (Subclass 820). Immigration and citizenship Website+1
To qualify, you must continue to be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your sponsor. Immigration and Citizenship Website
Key benefits once granted:
Unlimited rights to live, work, and study in Australia
Access to Medicare and other social services
Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residence requirements
Ability to sponsor eligible family members, Immigration and Citizenship Website.
⏳ When and How to Apply
The permanent stage typically begins two years from the date your initial combined Partner visa application (Stage 1) was lodged.
The Department of Home Affairs does not automatically assess your eligibility—you must manually submit the required updated documentation via ImmiAccount to progress to the permanent stage.
What You Need to Submit
To support your permanent visa application, you’ll need to demonstrate that your relationship remains genuine and continuing, often across four key areas:
Financial evidence – joint bank accounts, shared bills, lease or mortgage documents
Social proof – shared photos, social events, communications
Household evidence – living together, shared responsibilities
Personal statements or statutory declarations – confirming your commitment and future plans
Additional documentation may include:
Your current passport biodata page
Proof of identity and relationship recognition (e.g. birth/marriage certificates)
Updated sponsorship form and evidence from your sponsor
Potential health checks or other immigration requirements, if requested.
What If Your Situation Changes?
It’s vital to keep the Department informed of any changes to your circumstances—including but not limited to:
A change of contact details, passport or personal information
A change in your relationship status (e.g., separation, divorce, or death of a partner)
Significant life events, such as having a baby or changes to job/study arrangements.
Failing to notify such changes may jeopardise your visa application or result in delays. Immigration and Citizenship Website
If your relationship ends, certain provisions, such as if you share children or have experienced family violence, might still allow the application to proceed. In such cases, seeking professional advice is strongly recommended.
Common Questions Answered
The Home Affairs FAQ page clarifies important aspects, including:
When to submit documents for the permanent stage
What happens if your Subclass 801 visa is refused
Adding children to your application
Travel rights during the processing of the Immigration and Citizenship Website
Malak Foundation’s Support Message
This update brings much-needed clarity and structure for Partner visa applicants. At Malak Foundation, we encourage:
Reviewing your visa timeline carefully
Preparing documents well in advance of the two-year milestone
Promptly informing the Department of any changes—big or small
We’re here to help, whether it’s explaining document requirements, preparing your submission, or supporting you through complex changes. Our aim is to help you navigate this critical stage smoothly and securely.
