Overview of the Subclass 300 Visa
The Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300) allows individuals to come to Australia to marry their prospective spouse. This is a temporary visa valid for a period of 9 to 15 months. Once married, holders can apply for a combined Partner visa (subclasses 820 and 801) to remain in Australia permanently.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this visa, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be engaged to an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Be outside of Australia when you apply and when the visa is granted.
- Genuinely intend to marry your prospective spouse within the visa validity period.
- Meet specific health and character requirements, including providing police clearances.
Application Fees for 2026
In accordance with the Australian Department of Home Affairs 2026 fee schedule, the following Base Application Charges apply. Please note that additional costs for health checks, biometrics, and police certificates are not included in these figures.
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Primary Applicant | $9,365 |
| Additional Applicant (18 and over) | $4,685 |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | $2,345 |
Processing Times
Processing times are subject to the volume of applications and the complexity of individual cases. As of April 2026, the Department of Home Affairs reports the following benchmarks for the Subclass 300 visa:
- 50% of applications: Processed within 14 months.
- 90% of applications: Processed within 26 months.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Prepare Documentation: Gather evidence of your identity, your relationship, and your intent to marry (such as a Notice of Intended Marriage).
- Lodge Application: Submit your application via ImmiAccount while outside of Australia.
- Pay Fees: Ensure the full visa application charge is paid at the time of lodgement.
- Health and Character Checks: Complete your medical examinations and obtain required police clearances when prompted.
- Visa Grant: Receive your visa notification. You must be outside Australia for the grant to occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Australia on a Subclass 300 visa? Yes. Once the visa is granted and you have entered Australia, you have full work and study rights. However, you are not eligible for government-funded study assistance.
What happens if we don't get married within 15 months? The visa is granted specifically for the purpose of marriage. If the marriage does not take place within the specified timeframe, you may be required to leave Australia unless another visa is obtained.
Can I include my children in the application? Yes, you can include dependent children in your application at the time of lodgement, provided they meet the health and character requirements.
Does this visa lead to Permanent Residency? The Subclass 300 is a temporary visa. It serves as the first step toward permanent residency. After marrying your sponsor, you must apply for the Subclass 820/801 Partner visa to stay in Australia permanently.
