I've assisted hundreds of couples through the partner visa process — both onshore and offshore — across Subclasses 820/801, 309/100, and 300. Drawing from this extensive hands-on experience and informed by Departmental guidance, I’ve distilled several key lessons to help couples navigate the process more confidently and efficiently.
1. Keep Your Evidence Fresh – Upload Every 6–12 Months
The Department values accuracy. Regularly updating your evidence — particularly across the four relationship pillars (financial, social, household, and commitment) — reinforces the ongoing nature of your relationship.
We recommend uploading new relationship evidence every 6 to 12 months to maintain a consistent and credible record.
2. Book Medicals Within 12 Months of Lodgement
Medical examinations are generally valid for 12 months, and a visa cannot be granted if the medical results have expired.
To prevent processing delays, schedule your medical examination within 12 months of lodgement to ensure your results remain valid when the Department is ready to make a decision.
3. Be Meticulous with Your Travel History
Your entry and exit records will be verified carefully. In several cases, applicants have received Movement Requests to clarify discrepancies in their travel history.
Use International Movement Records or airline itineraries to cross-check your dates before completing Form 80 or any other declarations.
4. Form 80 Is Not Always Optional
Although not always listed as a mandatory document, Form 80 is often required for certain nationalities or applicants with higher-risk profiles.
To avoid unnecessary delays, I recommend front-loading Form 80 — submitting it with your initial application rather than waiting for a Departmental request.
5. Some Countries Require Certificates of No Prior Marriage
In jurisdictions where marriage and divorce records are not centralised or publicly verifiable, the Department may request a Certificate of No Prior Marriage.
Check the country-specific document requirements on the Department’s website before lodgement to confirm whether this applies to your case.
6. Police Checks Are Mandatory — Even if Not Requested Yet
A common misconception is that police clearances only need to be provided if requested.
In fact, all partner visa applicants (and sponsors, where applicable) must provide:
- Australian Federal Police (AFP) clearance
- Overseas police certificates for any country where they have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years
- State and Federal police checks — for example, if an applicant has lived in both Los Angeles and Texas, they must provide an FBI clearance as well as state-level certificates from California and Texas
Processing cannot proceed without these clearances in place.
Final Thoughts
Partner visa processing is increasingly focused on risk assessment, documentation consistency, and proactive evidence gathering.
Submitting a complete, accurate, and well-organised application from the outset is essential for a smoother experience and, in many cases, faster outcomes.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialise in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 820 partner visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional.