Hi George, thanks a lot for such a comprehensive input, really appreciate it.
The cost differential in the onshore/off shore is about $1,000. It does effect me, and the wait as well. However, my predicament being, we are getting married in December, while I have also lost a year on my PR (approved in Sep 10), so not only I dont want to lose another year on it, we dont want to be living in 2 different continents after getting married ( I understand once one applies for a spousal visa offshore, a tourist visa in never granted.). Considering the above, any thoughts on an on shore spousal visa application being the best route. Also i guess one can apply for a permission for work on the basis of financial hardship, once the 820 is submitted.
Thanks once again.