Navigating Australian Immigration: A Guide to Partner Visa 820 and Visitor Visa 600

Australia offers a wide range of visa options for individuals seeking to visit or settle in the country. Two of the most sought-after visa categories are the Partner Visa 820 and the Visitor Visa 600. These visa subclasses serve very different purposes—one for those in committed relationships aiming to build a life together in Australia, and the other for tourists and temporary visitors. In this article, PACE Immigration helps you understand the application process, eligibility criteria, and key differences between these two visa options.

Understanding Partner Visa 820

The Partner Visa 820 is a temporary onshore visa that allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia temporarily. It is the first step toward a permanent Partner Visa (subclass 801).

Key Features:

  • Allows the applicant to stay in Australia while the permanent visa (subclass 801) is being processed.

  • Gives access to Medicare, work rights, and study opportunities.

  • Can lead to permanent residency after two years if the relationship continues.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the Partner Visa 820, applicants must:

  • Be in a genuine and continuing relationship with their sponsor.

  • Be onshore (within Australia) when applying.

  • Provide evidence such as joint financial responsibilities, shared household arrangements, and social acknowledgment of the relationship.

  • Meet health and character requirements.

Application Process:

  1. Lodge the Application: The application for the Partner Visa 820 and 801 is lodged together, but only the 820 is assessed initially.

  2. Gather Documentation: Relationship evidence, identity documents, police checks, and health exams are mandatory.

  3. Wait Period: Processing times vary, often ranging between 20-30 months.

  4. Transition to 801 Visa: After 2 years, applicants may become eligible for the permanent Partner Visa (801).

Why Choose Partner Visa 820?

If you’re already in Australia and in a committed relationship with a citizen or permanent resident, this visa is the most direct path to permanent residency. PACE Immigration has successfully guided many couples through this complex but rewarding process.

Exploring Visitor Visa 600

The Visitor Visa 600 is a temporary visa for people who want to visit Australia for tourism, business, or to visit family. It doesn’t grant work rights but can be extended under certain circumstances.

Key Features:

  • Stay durations can vary from 3, 6, or 12 months.

  • Suitable for tourists, business visitors, or family members visiting Australians.

  • Can be applied for from outside or inside Australia.

Streams of Visitor Visa 600:

  1. Tourist Stream: For leisure or visiting friends and family.

  2. Business Visitor Stream: For short-term business activities such as attending conferences.

  3. Sponsored Family Stream: Requires a formal sponsorship by an Australian family member.

  4. Approved Destination Status Stream: For citizens from certain areas of China traveling in tour groups.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must intend to stay temporarily in Australia.

  • Must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your stay.

  • Health insurance is recommended.

  • You should not have a history of visa breaches or criminal records.

Application Process:

  1. Select the Correct Stream: Choose the appropriate stream based on your purpose of visit.

  2. Online Application: Applications can be submitted online via the ImmiAccount portal.

  3. Documentation: Provide travel history, purpose of visit, proof of funds, and ties to your home country.

  4. Visa Decision: Processing time ranges from 3 to 7 weeks in most cases.

Common Mistakes to AvoidFor Partner Visa 820:

  • Incomplete or inconsistent relationship evidence.

  • Applying while on an invalid or bridging visa.

  • Not updating the Department about major life changes (e.g., relationship status).

For Visitor Visa 600:

  • Submitting vague travel plans or lack of itinerary.

  • Insufficient proof of funds.

  • Failing to demonstrate intent to return home.

How PACE Immigration Can Help

Applying for Australian visas, especially the Partner Visa 820 and Visitor Visa 600, can be overwhelming due to the volume of documentation and legal obligations involved. At PACE Immigration, we specialize in personalized visa solutions tailored to your unique situation. Here’s how we can assist:

  • Initial Consultation to assess your eligibility.

  • Documentation Support to ensure your evidence meets legal criteria.

  • Lodgement & Follow-Up: We handle your application and communicate with the Department on your behalf.

  • Appeals & Re-submissions: If your visa is refused or delayed, we offer expert guidance on next steps.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning to reunite with your loved one or explore the beauty of Australia as a tourist, choosing the right visa is crucial. The Partner Visa 820 is ideal for long-term settlement with your partner, while the Visitor Visa 600 offers flexibility for short-term travel. Understanding each visa’s requirements can help you avoid delays and refusals.

Let PACE Immigration be your trusted partner in making your Australian dream a reality. Contact us today for a free consultation and move forward with confidence.