Partner Visa Subclass 801 — document translation guide

The Partner Visa (Subclass 801) is the permanent stage of the onshore partner visa pathway, lodged simultaneously with the temporary Subclass 820 as a combined application. Once the temporary Subclass 820 is granted, the permanent Subclass 801 is assessed after the relevant waiting period — generally 2 years from the application date. The Department of Home Affairs will contact the primary applicant when it is time to provide updated evidence.

To be granted the Subclass 801, the applicant must demonstrate that: the relationship with the sponsoring partner is genuine and continuing; both parties have remained in the relationship since the Subclass 820 was granted (separation may affect eligibility unless family violence provisions apply); health and character requirements continue to be met. Updated evidence for the permanent stage typically includes recent financial records, updated statutory declarations from witnesses, and new documents reflecting the current state of the relationship.

If the sponsor dies before the 801 is granted, or if the applicant experiences family violence, specific provisions may allow the 801 to still be granted — always seek migration agent advice in these circumstances. When are certified translations required? Any updated documents submitted for the permanent stage that are not in English must be accompanied by a NAATI-certified translation. Police clearance certificates that have expired since the 820 application may need to be renewed and translated.