The Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) is ideal for engaged couples who want to begin their life together in Australia. It allows you to enter the country, marry your Australian partner, and then apply for a Partner Visa to stay permanently.
If you’re not yet eligible for a standard Partner Visa due to marriage or de facto requirements, this visa creates a clear pathway. At Questra, we help you plan every step—so you can focus on your future, not the paperwork.
What Is the Prospective Marriage Visa?
The Subclass 300 is a temporary visa for people outside Australia who are engaged to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. It’s the first step in a three-part journey to permanent residency.
- Validity: 9 to 15 months
- Condition: You must marry your partner within the visa period
Next Step: Apply for the onshore Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) after marriage
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if:
You’re outside Australia at the time of application and decision
You’re engaged to an eligible Australian partner
You’ve met in person after turning 18
You both genuinely intend to marry and live together as spouses
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Submit your application while outside Australia. Include documents that show your identity, relationship, and plans to marry.
Once granted, the visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia for up to 15 months. You must get married before the visa expires.
After your wedding—but before the 300 visa expires—you apply for the Subclass 820/801 Partner Visa, beginning your pathway to permanent residency.
- Step 1 – Apply for the Subclass 300 Visa
- Step 2 – Enter Australia and Marry Your Partner
- Step 3 – Apply for the Onshore Partner Visa
Key Requirements
| Requirement |
Details |
| Location |
Must be outside Australia for application and visa decision. |
| Age |
Both applicant and sponsor must be at least 18. |
| Relationship |
Must be engaged, have met in person, and intend to marry. |
| Sponsor |
Must be an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen. |
| Health & Character |
Both partners and any dependants must meet health and character checks. |
| Marriage Intent |
Must show clear plans to marry within the visa’s timeframe. |
Evidence of Intention to Marry
| Evidence Type |
Examples |
| NOIM Letter |
Confirmation from a registered celebrant that you’ve lodged a Notice of Intended Marriage. |
| Wedding Planning |
Receipts/bookings for venue, outfits, flights, invitations, etc. |
| Relationship History |
Written statements, photos, chat logs, and Form 888 declarations from family/friends. |
Subclass 300Â – Processing Times
The processing duration for visas depends on the visa stream and applicant profile together with government workload requirements. The official government source provides the most accurate and current information about visa processing times.
đź”— Check current visa processing times
Subclass 300 - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I work on a 300 visa?
Yes. The visa comes with full work and study rights.
What if we don’t marry in time?
 The visa cannot be extended. You must marry and apply for the Partner Visa before it expires.
Is there a discount for the Partner Visa after the 300?
Yes. When applying for the Subclass 820/801 after a Subclass 300, you’ll pay a reduced fee.
Let Questra Guide the Way
Planning a future together across borders is a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. Questra will help you lodge a strong 300 visa application and stay by your side through the Partner Visa stage too.
Book a consultation today and take the first step toward your new life together.