This makes all the difference for those transitioning between a temporary 820 partner visa and a permanent 801 partner visa! This is a permanent residency pathway for partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This guide shares insight and tips to make the transition easier and ensure things go smoothly.
Decoding the 820 and 801 Visa
Partner visas 820 and 801 are two-part options for people with Australian partners (citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens). The 820 visa is a temporary visa that permits holders to remain in Australia until being awarded a permanent 801 visa. Once granted, the 801 visa is a permanent residency, which carries several benefits, including access to social security and the opportunity to become a citizen after fulfilling certain conditions.
Gathering Necessary Documentation
You apply for the 801 visa only if you currently have the 820 visa. The most important thing one could demonstrate is a real and continuous relationship with my partner. This can be proven through personal financial responsibilities, living arrangements, social activities, and commitment to a shared future. What is more, it is also important that applicants fulfil the health and character requirements and pose no danger to the community.
Collecting Relevant Paperwork
The importance of documentation in the application process. Affidavits and other documentation showing the legitimacy and continuity of the partnership between the applicants. Joint bank account statements, rental agreements, bills, and photos from time spent together are examples of evidence that could be presented. Another way to strengthen it is to add letters from friends and family in support of the relationship. Having these documents organised beforehand could help reduce delays.
Application Submission
The second stage, the 801 visa, is usually applied for approximately two years after the first stage, the 820 visa. The immigration department will notify applicants when they can apply. It contains steps to set up a login for the online application portal. It is important to fill out the application entirely and adequately because mistakes can cause delays in processing.
Know the Timeline for Processing
Processing times for an 801 visa are not always the same. Typically, it takes anywhere between a couple of months and more than a year. How long this takes depends on the complexity of the application and how many applications they have to process. Knowing current processing times will help manage expectations and lessen stress.
How to Stick With the Relationship
You maintain the relationship with an Australian partner through the application process. Once having applied, the relationship status must be updated in immigration asap if there are any changes. Since any alteration can influence the consequence of the visa application, honesty and transparency play a significant role.
Tackling Possible Issues
The transition process, however, is not easy for all applicants. Examples include incomplete paperwork, life changes, or confusion about how things are supposed to be. Immigration agents can highlight these challenges and help individuals proactively avoid such pitfalls.
Why Get an 801 Visa?
The 801 visa is a huge benefit once you have been granted. It gives the holder the right to remain in Australia as a permanent resident, including the right to work and study without restrictions. Visa holders are entitled to Medicare and other welfare. Furthermore, following the specific requirements of residency, they can then apply for Australian citizenship and gain more rights and privileges.
Educating Yourself and Preparing
It is crucial to stay updated with changes in immigration policies, which affect eligibility and the processing schedule. Applicants can subscribe to updates through government immigration websites or consult with legal professionals to stay informed of any developments.
Conclusion
For many couples, transitioning from an 820 visa to an 801 partner visa in Australia signifies an essential next step, allowing them to move forward and continue building a life together. Awareness of the needs, appropriate documentation, and a real connection can guide those who apply. The 801 visa can be a great stepping stone to eventual permanent residency (and its security) if you have exemplary patience and preparation.
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