Planning your future together shouldn’t be held back by uncertainty. Yet for many couples, waiting for a decision on the Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) is one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the journey. Every month matters when you’re trying to set a wedding date or start a new life in Australia.

So, how long does it really take? Processing times for the Prospective Marriage Visa in Australia typically range from 12 to 25 months, depending on your application’s completeness and whether additional checks are required.

Keep reading to learn what influences visa processing times and how to make your application as smooth as possible.

Processing Times for Prospective Marriage Visa Australia: A Quick Overview

The processing times for the Prospective Marriage Visa in Australia generally fall between 12 and 25 months. About 50% of applications are finalised in 12 months, while 90% are processed within 24–26 months. 

These averages reflect typical cases, but each application is assessed individually. Delays often occur when documents are missing, health or character checks are slow or demand is higher than usual. 

Couples planning important milestones should use these timeframes as a guide but remain flexible, since factors outside their control may influence the final decision.

Talk to Lewis & Bollard in Sydney About Your Visa Timeline

​​If you’re in Sydney and feeling uncertain about the processing time for your Prospective Marriage Visa Australia, our team at Lewis & Bollard is here to help. We understand how stressful the waiting period can be, especially when it involves planning your future with your partner.

With years of experience, our immigration lawyers prepare applications carefully to minimise delays and give you peace of mind.

We proudly assist clients in Sydney and across Australia, offering tailored advice for your unique situation. Whether you need help understanding timelines or preparing documents, we’re ready to support you every step of the way. 

Call us today at +612 9283 0888 or visit our Contact Us page to start your journey with confidence.

Current Processing Time for Prospective Marriage Visa in Australia

When planning your future together, knowing how long your Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300) might take is essential. While the Department of Home Affairs regularly updates visa processing timelines, there isn’t a single fixed waiting period. Every application is unique. 

Several factors can influence how quickly your visa is processed, including:

• The completeness of your application – missing documents or unclear information can lead to delays
• The volume of applications – high demand often slows down processing times
• Background and health checks – extra verification may extend the waiting period

According to the visa processing time guide tool from the Department of Home Affairs:

• 50% of Prospective Marriage Visa applications are processed within 12 months
• 90% are finalised within 24–26 months

These timeframes are only a guide, as each case is assessed individually. Applications that are complete and straightforward are often processed faster, while those needing more documentation or checks may take longer.

Key Factors That Affect Processing Times

While the Department provides general timeframes, actual processing outcomes depend on multiple factors. A well-prepared application can move more smoothly, while missing or inconsistent details may extend the wait. Below are the most common factors influencing the Prospective Marriage Visa processing time.

Completeness of Application

One of the biggest influences is whether all required forms, identity documents and evidence are provided upfront. Missing birth certificates, relationship proofs or financial details often trigger additional requests for information, which can delay progress. Submitting a complete and organised application from the start helps reduce unnecessary back-and-forth.

Character Checks

Every applicant must pass strict background assessments. If you have lived in multiple countries, you may need police certificates from each, which can take time to obtain. Any discrepancies or prior issues may extend review periods, as authorities sift through the details.

Health Examinations

Health checks are mandatory and delays often occur when applicants postpone medical assessments or if follow-up tests are requested. Providing updated health information early in the process ensures that these requirements do not slow things down later.

Volume of Applications

The Department of Home Affairs processes thousands of visa applications each year. If the volume of applications is unusually high, the Prospective Marriage Visa Australia processing time may lengthen. This is beyond the applicant’s control, but it is important to consider when planning.

Country of Application

The applicant’s home country can influence timelines. Applications from countries with higher fraud risks or additional security concerns may undergo extra checks. This adds time compared to those submitted from lower-risk regions.

Additional Requests for Information

If the Department identifies unclear or inconsistent details, it will issue a request for further information. Every request extends the processing time because the case cannot progress until the applicant responds with the required documents.

Tips to Avoid Delays

Although certain elements are beyond your control, applicants can take practical steps to reduce unnecessary waiting. A proactive approach can help keep the application on track.

• Submit a Complete Application: Ensure every required document is included before submission. Cross-check against the Department’s official checklist to avoid omissions.
• Prepare Character Documents Early: Collect police certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more since turning 16. Start early because some countries take months to issue these records.
• Book Health Examinations Promptly: Do not delay your medical exams. Schedule them as soon as you receive the request, so results are ready for review without unnecessary waiting.
• Provide Strong Relationship Evidence: Submit detailed, genuine evidence of your relationship, such as shared financial commitments, communication history and joint travel. Strong evidence reduces the chance of extra queries from the Department.
• Respond Quickly to Requests: If the Department asks for more information, respond promptly and thoroughly. Every day of delay in replying can extend the overall processing timeline.
• Keep Records Updated: If your circumstances change, such as address or contact details, update the Department immediately to avoid missed correspondence.
• Consider Professional Guidance: Engaging a registered migration agent can help ensure that the application is accurate, organised and strategically presented. Professional oversight can reduce the risk of delays caused by mistakes.

Wrapping Up

The processing time for a Prospective Marriage Visa Australia can be long, but knowing the average timeline helps couples prepare realistically. While the wait may test patience, the outcome paves the way for a secure and exciting new chapter together. 

By submitting a complete application, staying responsive and preparing early for checks, you give yourself the best chance of a smooth process. Although delays may happen, understanding the system reduces uncertainty and builds confidence for the journey ahead.