The 801 visa lets you stay in Australia permanently if you’re in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Wondering how long the processing time takes or what documents you need to provide?
This guide has everything you need to know, from eligibility to the visa application process. Plus, holding a permanent visa can strengthen your chances of home loan approval, as lenders prefer permanent residents.
Find out how to live in Australia permanently, work and study in Australia, and even apply for Australian citizenship. Keep reading for all the details!
What is an 801 Visa?
The 801 visa is a permanent partner visa that lets you stay in Australia indefinitely if you are in a committed relationship with an eligible partner. It is the second stage of the partner visa process, following the 820 visa.
With this visa, you can live, work, and study in Australia without restrictions. You may also qualify for Australian citizenship in the future.
To be granted the 801 visa, you must prove your relationship is ongoing and meet all requirements. The application is assessed by immigration officials based on your evidence and time spent on the 820 visa (Temporary Partner visa).
801 Visa Checklist
Relationship Evidence
Immigration needs to see that you and your partner share a committed life together, not just on paper but in everyday life.
Here are what you need to provide:
- Joint bank statements showing shared finances
- Rental agreements or mortgage documents with both names
- Utility bills addressed to both of you
- Photos together over time, including with family and friends
- Travel records show trips taken as a couple
- Messages, emails, or social media interactions
- Statutory declarations from family and friends confirming your relationship
Identity Documents
You’ll need official documents to confirm your identity. These must be clear, valid, and, if necessary, translated into English. Make sure everything is up to date to avoid delays. They may include:
- Passport bio page (yours and your partner’s)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- National ID card or driver’s licence
- Change of name documents (if you’ve changed your name)
Health Requirements
You might need a medical check as part of the process. The documents include:
- Health assessment (arranged through an approved panel doctor)
- Chest X-ray, blood test results, and vaccination records (if required)
- Medical reports for existing conditions
- Any extra tests immigration requests during the processing
Character Requirements
Immigration will assess your background to ensure you don’t pose a risk to the community. If you have a criminal record, your case may need further review.
You’ll need to provide:
- Police clearance certificates from every country you’ve lived in for 12+ months over the last 10 years
- Military service records (if applicable)
- Court documents if you’ve had legal issues in the past
Sponsor Documents
Your partner, as your sponsor, also needs to provide supporting documents, including:
- Passport bio page or Australian citizenship certificate
- Proof of permanent residency (if not a citizen)
- Birth certificate
- Proof of employment or financial stability
- Police clearance certificates (if required)
- A signed statement confirming your relationship is genuine and ongoing
Additional Documents
Some cases require extra paperwork. These documents help clarify unique situations. You may need to provide:
- Divorce or separation papers from past relationships
- Child custody documents (if applicable)
- Proof of financial dependency (for dependent family members)
- Statutory declarations from friends and family confirming your relationship
What is the Process for Applying for the Subclass 801 Visa?
Stage 1: Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820)
The subclass 820 visa is the initial stage in getting permanent residency through your relationship. It lets you stay, work, and study in Australia while proving your commitment to your partner.
To qualify, you’ll need to meet key requirements. Once approved, you can live in Australia temporarily while waiting to apply for the permanent stage.
Stage 2: Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801)
After holding the subclass 820 visa for two years, you can move to the permanent stage. Immigration will make a decision based on updated relationship evidence.
If approved, the permanent visa is granted, allowing you to stay in Australia as a permanent resident.
This visa comes with a 5-year travel facility, meaning you can re-enter Australia as a permanent resident during that time. After five years, you may need an RRV (Resident Return Visa) to continue travelling freely.
Once you hold this visa, you can sponsor eligible family members, work without restrictions, and even take the next step towards citizenship when eligible.
Long-term Relationship
If you’ve been in a long-term relationship before applying, you may receive the permanent visa immediately. Generally, a relationship of three years (or two years with a child) qualifies for this faster pathway.
Once approved, you can become an Australian citizen when eligible. This visa also allows you to sponsor eligible family members, giving you and your loved ones greater stability in Australia.
Am I Eligible to Apply for the Subclass 801 Visa?
If you’re holding a subclass 820 visa, the next step is applying for the 801 visa. But before you move forward, you need to meet certain requirements:
- You must be 18 years old or older.
- You must be sponsored by someone 18 or older. If your partner is under 18, their parent or guardian must sponsor you.
- You currently hold a subclass 820 visa or a Dependent Child (subclass 445) visa.
- Your relationship with your Australian citizen or permanent resident partner or an eligible New Zealand citizen is still genuine and ongoing.
- You’ve continued to live together or remain in a committed partnership.
- You have met all conditions of your subclass 820 visa.
- You’ve provided evidence of your shared life, including financial, social, and household ties.
- You meet health and character requirements.
- You are in Australia when applying for the permanent stage.
Home Loan Eligibility for 801 Visa Holders
Having an 801 visa gives you a solid advantage when applying for a home loan, as it grants you permanent residency. Many lenders prefer borrowers with stable residency status, making approval easier.
However, your eligibility still depends on factors like income, credit history, and deposit size. Some banks may have stricter policies, while others treat 801 visa holders the same as Australian citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 820 and 801 partner visas?
The 820 visa refers to a temporary visa that lets you stay in Australia while proving your relationship. Meanwhile, the 801 visa is in the permanent stage.
What happens after 5 years of an 801 visa?
Your 801 visa lets you stay in Australia indefinitely, but the 5-year travel facility expires. To travel freely, you may need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) or apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.
Can I buy a house on an 801 visa?
Yes, as an 801 visa holder, you are a permanent resident, meaning you can buy property without restrictions and apply for a home loan like Australian citizens.
Conclusion
The 801 visa grants you permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia with full rights. It also improves your chances of securing a home loan, as many lenders prefer applicants with stable residency status.
If you’re an 801 visa holder planning to buy a home, understanding lender requirements and comparing options is key. For expert guidance, visit Professional Home Loans.
Ready to explore your home loan options? Contact us today for a free 30-minute Finance Strategy Session for Professionals!