Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)
The Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) serves as a gateway for individuals desiring to unite with their soon-to-be spouses in Australia.
Unlike the Partner Visa, this temporary visa offers a unique opportunity for couples who are not yet ready to meet all the criteria for a full-fledged partnership.
Duration of Stay
As the Prospective Marriage Visa is a temporary visa, visa holders may stay in Australia for 9–15 months, subject to the period specified on their visa grant letter.
Visa holders must get married before their visa expires and before applying for the Partner Visa (Onshore) (Subclasses 820 & 801).
Benefits of the Prospective Marriage Visa
1. Bridge to Partnership
For those who may not fully meet the Partner Visa criteria, the Prospective Marriage Visa serves as a stepping stone to live with their spouse in Australia.
2. Inclusion of Family Members
The flexibility of including family members in the application or adding them as subsequent entrants after the visa is granted makes this visa appealing to those with children.
3. Work and Study Opportunities
Visa holders are not confined solely to marriage preparations; they can work and study in Australia during their stay.
4. No Travel Restrictions
Unlike some visas, the Subclass 300 doesn’t impose travel restrictions, granting freedom of movement to applicants.
Prospective Marriage Visa Requirements
Prospective Marriage Visa applicants must be sponsored by their prospective spouse (the person they are going to marry).
Their prospective spouse must also sponsor anyone else included in the application, such as a child.
Additionally, Subclass 300 applicants must satisfy the following requirements:
- Applicants must be over 18 years old or older,
- Meet the health requirements,
- Meet the character requirements,
- Sign the Australian values statement,
- Have no debt to the Australian government, and
- Not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused.
The visa will not be granted if it is not in the best interests of an applicant under the age of 18 (child), if applicable.
Application Process
Applicants must be located outside Australia when applying for the Prospective Marriage Visa.
Whether the marriage ceremony takes place in Australia or overseas, it must adhere to Australian law.
Transition to Permanent Residency
Subclass 300 holders and their partners may settle in Australia long-term with the Partner Visa (Subclass 820 & 801).
A temporary partner visa will generally be granted before the permanent partner visa, provided the eligibility criteria are met at the time of application.
They may apply for their Partner Visa once married, but before their Prospective Marriage visa ends.
Contact Us
The Prospective Marriage Visa opens up a pathway for couples to initiate their life together in Australia.
For a successful journey, consider seeking expert advice and support from the dedicated team at Bambrick Legal.
Our experienced team can not only confirm your Subclass 300 eligibility but also assist you throughout the application process.
- Fill in our enquiry form here
- Call us on 08 8362 5269
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Read more about our Visa and Migration services here.
Related Blog – 9 Tips for a Successful Visa Application in Australia