Subclass 300 Prospective Marriage Visa – Must Know!

The Subclass 300 Prospective Marriage Visa, also known as the fiancé visa or engagement visa, is a pathway for individuals who wish to come to Australia, marry their prospective spouse, and then apply for an onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820).

This visa is an excellent option for couples who want to build a life together in Australia but have not yet met the requirements for the Partner Visa.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key aspects of the Subclass 300 visa, including eligibility, benefits, costs, and more. Let’s dive in.

What is the Subclass 300 Prospective Marriage Visa?

The Subclass 300 visa allows applicants to enter Australia to marry their Australian Citizen, Australian Permanent Resident, or Eligible New Zealand Citizen partner. Once in Australia, applicants must apply for the Subclass 820 Partner Visa to continue their stay.

This visa is sometimes referred to as a fiancé visa or engagement visa, and it offers a unique option for couples who are committed but may not yet meet the stringent criteria of other partner visa subclasses.

Why Choose the Subclass 300 Visa?

While the Subclass 300 visa is a three-step process (compared to the two-step process for the 820/801 and 309/100 visas), it has distinct advantages:

1. Lower Evidentiary Threshold

Unlike the Subclass 309 Partner Visa, the Subclass 300 visa does not require you to prove a 12-month de facto relationship or a formal marriage.

2. Flexibility for New Relationships

This visa is ideal for couples who have met only a few times, have not established a household, or haven’t merged finances yet.

For Example – If you’ve only met your partner during brief visits or trips but want to spend your lives together, the Subclass 300 visa is a suitable option.

Many couples face challenges with the Partner Visa due to limited evidence of their relationship. Choosing the Subclass 300 visa can prevent delays and unnecessary complications.

Eligibility for the Subclass 300

To qualify for the Subclass 300 visa, you must meet these requirements:

  • Age: Both applicant and sponsor must be 18 years or older
  • Relationship: You must have met your prospective spouse in person (after turning 18) and intend to marry within the visa’s validity.
  • Commitment: You must intend to live together as a married couple.
  • Location: You must be outside Australia at the time of application.
  • Health and Character: Both applicant and sponsor must meet the required health and character standards.

How to Show You Intend to Marry?

One of the primary requirements is to prove your intention to marry. This is typically done by completing a Notice of Intention to Marry (NOIM) with a registered marriage celebrant. The celebrant will provide a confirmation letter stating your intended marriage date.

However, this is not the only evidence required. You must also demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and ongoing through supporting documents such as:

  • Photos together
  • Travel itineraries
  • Communication records (emails, messages, etc.)

What Happens if You Marry Before the Visa is Finalised?

Love doesn’t always wait! If you decide to marry your partner before your Subclass 300 visa is finalised, you can convert your application to a Subclass 309 Partner Visa.

Keep in mind that this will subject your application to the criteria of the 309 visa, which may require additional evidence. It is important to know about the difference between onshore and offshore partner visa. 

Costs and Processing Times

Visa Application Charges

  • Subclass 300 Visa: $9,095
  • Subclass 820 Visa (after marriage): $1,515

Additional Costs

  • Police clearances
  • Health examinations
  • Document translations (if applicable)

Processing Times

Processing times for the Subclass 300 visa range from 13 to 25 months, depending on factors such as:

  • Providing all documents at the time of lodgment
  • Responding promptly to requests for further information
  • The complexity of your case

Pro Tip: Well-prepared applications often process faster, sometimes within 9 to 18 months.

What to Do After Your Subclass 300 Visa is Granted?

Once your visa is granted, the typical validity period is 9 to 15 months. During this time, you must:

1. Enter Australia to activate your visa.

2. Marry your prospective spouse.

3. Lodge your Subclass 820 Partner Visa before your 300 visa expires. 

Do You Have to Marry in Australia?

No! While you must enter Australia on your Subclass 300 visa, you can marry your partner anywhere.

For example, you could have a destination wedding in Bali and return to Australia to lodge your Subclass 820 visa.

Health and Character Requirements

Health Requirements

You must undergo a health examination conducted by an approved panel physician. This includes checks for:

  • Tuberculosis
  • Other infectious diseases

If you fail your health examinations – you may be able to apply for a health waiver. 

Character Requirements

  • Both you and your sponsor must provide police clearances for any country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 300 Visa

  • Allows couples in newer relationships to be together without meeting strict de facto or marriage requirements.
  • Gives you time to settle in Australia, marry your partner, and transition to permanent residency.

For Example – If a couple has only met twice due to long-distance challenges, the Subclass 300 visa allows them to unite in Australia, marry, and build their life together without unnecessary hurdles.

Final Thoughts – Subclass 300 Visa Australia?

Subclass 300 Prospective Marriage Visa is a fantastic option for couples eager to start their journey in Australia. While it requires careful planning and preparation, the benefits often outweigh the costs and complexities.

At Emigrate Lawyers, we specialize in helping couples navigate the visa process smoothly. Whether it’s preparing a strong application, addressing requests from Immigration, or guiding you through the transition to a Partner Visa, we’re here to help.

Contact Emigrate Lawyers today to start your journey together!

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