Australia Marriage Visa
Prospective Australia Marriage Visa Subclass 300
For many international couples, the Prospective Marriage Visa (or engagement visa) Subclass 300 is an ideal option to reunite in Australia and plan a future together. This type of visa allows the foreign partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or New Zealand citizen to enter Australia to get married. Below, we’ll explore what this visa is, its requirements, benefits and the application process to help you decide if it’s the right option for you and your partner.
What is the Prospective Marriage Visa Subclass 300?
The Prospective Marriage Visa, known as the Subclass 300 engagement visa, allows the partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to enter Australia to marry. Once approved, this visa grants the holder temporary permission for up to 9 months, during which time the couple is expected to marry. After getting married, the holder can apply for a Partner visa, which will allow them to reside more permanently in Australia.
Main Requirements for the Prospective Marriage Visa Subclass 300
To qualify for this visa, both the applicant and their partner must meet certain requirements:
- Genuine and exclusive relationship: They must demonstrate that their relationship is genuine, serious and exclusive.
- Wedding planning: They must commit to getting married within a maximum of 9 months of visa approval. Proof of wedding planning, such as venue reservations, invitations or plans, is recommended.
- In-person meeting: It is mandatory that the couple have had an in-person meeting before applying. Distance or online-only relationships do not qualify for this visa.
- Sponsorship of Australian partner: The applicant must have the sponsorship of their Australian partner, who will assume financial responsibility for the duration of the visa.
- Health and police record: The applicant must pass medical examinations and both provide criminal records to meet health and character requirements.
Evidence of relationship: Evidence of relationship is crucial in this type of application. It is recommended to include photos, correspondence, communication history and testimonies from friends and family.
Benefits of the Prospective Marriage Visa Subclass 300
This visa offers several benefits for couples who wish to reunite in Australia:
- Work permit: The visa holder can work in Australia during the visa period, allowing them to save and contribute financially while preparing for their life together.
- Access to Medicare: In certain cases, holders can apply for access to Medicare, Australia’s public health system.
- Possibility of applying for a Partner visa: After marriage, the holder can apply for a Partner visa (Subclass 820/801), which allows them to live permanently in Australia.
- Experience in Australia: Subclass 300 provides an opportunity for both partners to live together in Australia and adjust to the lifestyle before making more permanent decisions.
Application Process
The application process for the Prospective Marriage Visa can be extensive and requires careful preparation. Here are the general steps:
- Preparing documents: Gather all documentation supporting the relationship and intention to marry. This includes evidence of a genuine relationship, proof of wedding planning, and health and police checks.
- Online application: Complete and submit the application through ImmiAccount, the Australian Department of Immigration’s online platform.
- Paying fees: Pay the application fee. Visa fees can change, so it’s important to check the current cost before applying.
- Waiting for the decision: Processing time can vary, but generally takes between 12 and 18 months. During this time, additional documents or interviews may be requested.
- Wedding planning: Once the visa is approved, the applicant has 9 months to get married in Australia. After marriage, they can begin the process for the partner visa.
How can we help you?
Our team of migration experts has years of experience in handling protection applications. We offer:
- Detailed eligibility assessments.
- Assistance in preparing and submitting your application.
- Representation and support throughout the process.
- Advice on your rights and obligations in Australia.
If you need guidance on how to begin your Marriage Visa application process, contact us today for an initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
Processing time is typically 12 to 18 months, although this may vary depending on the workload of the Immigration Department and the availability of documents.
Yes, the Prospective Marriage Visa Subclass 300 allows holders to work in Australia during the period of validity of the visa.
If they do not marry within 9 months, the visa holder will have to leave Australia upon expiry of the visa, or apply for an extension or change of status if eligible.
To qualify for the Prospective Marriage Visa, it is mandatory that you have had at least one in-person meeting. If you have not yet met in person, you will need to make plans to do so before applying for this visa, as long-distance relationships alone do not qualify.
If you get married before your Prospective Marriage Visa is approved, you will need to inform the Department of Immigration. In this case, you would no longer qualify for Subclass 300, but you can change your application to a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801), which allows residence in Australia based on marriage or de facto relationship.
