The 820 Partner Visa has specific conditions for visa holders and sponsors. Visa holders must maintain a genuine relationship, follow Australian laws, and report changes. Sponsors are responsible for financial support and meeting eligibility criteria. Understanding these obligations is key to staying compliant and progressing to the 801 Visa.
Conditions for 820 Partner Visa Holders
Maintaining a Genuine Relationship
- You must stay in a genuine and continuing relationship with your sponsor.
- If your relationship ends, notify the Department of Home Affairs immediately.
- In some cases, such as domestic violence or the death of a sponsor, you may still be eligible to retain your visa.
Reporting Changes in Circumstances
- Inform the Department about:
- Change of address or contact details.
- Relationship status updates (e.g., marriage, separation).
- The birth of a child.
- Use ImmiAccount to update your details promptly.
Following Australian Laws
- Abide by all Australian laws while holding the 820 Visa.
- Serious legal breaches can affect your visa status and eligibility for the 801 Visa.
Sponsor Obligations for the 820 Partner Visa
Providing Financial Support
- Sponsors must provide financial assistance to the visa holder, covering:
- Housing, food, and living expenses.
- Any healthcare needs not covered by Medicare.
- This obligation continues throughout the validity of the 820 Visa.
Meeting Sponsorship Criteria
- Sponsors must meet eligibility requirements, including:
- Being an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Passing character checks (e.g., police certificates).
- Sponsors may be restricted if they have previously sponsored multiple partners or have a criminal record.
Reporting Changes
- Sponsors must notify the Department of Home Affairs about any changes to:
- Their address or contact details.
- Financial capacity to support the visa holder.
What Happens if Your Relationship Ends on the 820 Partner Visa
Family Violence Provisions
- If your relationship ends due to domestic or family violence, you may still be eligible for the 820 Visa or the subsequent 801 Visa.
- The Department of Home Affairs provides protection for visa holders in these circumstances.
- Evidence, such as police reports or court documents, may be required to prove family violence.
Notification of Relationship Cessation
- If your relationship ends, you must notify the Department of Home Affairs using the Notification of Relationship Cessation form in ImmiAccount.
- Outcomes depend on your situation:
- If the relationship ends amicably, your visa eligibility may be reassessed.
- If your sponsor passes away, you may still qualify for the visa under compassionate grounds.
Eligibility for Permanent Residency
- If your relationship ends after the 820 Visa is granted but before the 801 Visa decision, your eligibility for permanent residency may still be considered if:
- You have dependent children from the relationship.
- Compassionate or exceptional circumstances apply.
Work and Study Rights on the 820 Partner Visa
Work Rights
- Full Work Rights: Holders of the 820 Partner Visa can work full-time in Australia without restrictions.
- Finding Employment: Use job search platforms and local resources to explore opportunities.
- Exceptions: Ensure your Bridging Visa (if active) also includes work rights while waiting for the 820 Visa decision.
Study Rights
- Eligibility for Education: You can enroll in courses or programs in Australia while on the 820 Visa.
- Fees and Benefits:
- You may not qualify for government-subsidized tuition (domestic fees).
- Explore scholarships or private funding options if needed.
The 820 Partner Visa provides a secure pathway for partners to live and work in Australia, but it comes with specific conditions and responsibilities. Understanding your obligations as a visa holder, such as maintaining a genuine relationship, reporting changes, and following Australian laws, is crucial. Sponsors also play a vital role in providing financial and emotional support.
By staying compliant with these conditions, both visa holders and sponsors ensure a smooth transition to permanent residency through the 801 Partner Visa. Staying informed and proactive will help you navigate the process confidently and avoid unnecessary complications.
