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Visa Traveler

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Australia Visitor Visa: Requirements, Eligibility and Application Process

Updated: February 7, 2024

Australia Visitor Visa is the only option to visit Australia as a tourist for many nationalities. If you don’t qualify for either the Electronic Travel Authority(ETA) or the eVisitor Visa, then you will need to get a Visitor Visa.

Australia no longer accepts paper applications for the visitor visa. All applications must be lodged online through the Australian Government Immi Portal.

The Visitor Visa has subclass 600 in Australia’s visa documentation and the subtype we’re interested in is the “Tourist stream (apply outside Australia)”.

Quick summary:

• Eligibility: All nationalities are eligible
• Validity: Valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years with single or multiple entries
• Duration of stay: Generally, 3 months allowed stay, but up to 6 or 12 in some cases
• Visa fee: Visitors visa fee is 190 AUD
• Processing time: 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% in 21 days.

If you haven’t already, read the  Australia Visa Guide  to familiarize yourself with Australian tourist visa types, requirements, eligibility and entry procedures at the border.

Table of Contents

Understanding australia visitor visa.

Visitor visa validity

The Australian Visitor visa is valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years from the date of issue. The validity of the visa depends on your nationality and circumstances. For example, most Indian passport holders get a 3-year valid Australian visa, whereas Phillippine passport holders get a 1-year valid visa. Pakistan nationals get a 6-month validity.

You must visit Australia within the validity of your visa.

Duration of stay

Most Visitor visas granted allow for 3 months of continuous stay in Australia. Depending on circumstances, you might be granted a stay of 6 months or even 12 months.

Allowed number of entries

Most Visitor visas are multiple-entry , but Home Affairs also issues single visas in certain circumstances for certain nationalities.

When to apply

Since the tourist visas are valid for at least 3 months, it’s a good idea to apply well in advance. Most applications get processed in 3 weeks or fewer.

Visa extension

Australia Visitor visa is non-extendable . If you need to  extend your stay in Australia , you are allowed to apply for another Visitor Visa (onshore) from within the country.

Australia Visitor Visa Requirements

Who requires a Visitor Visa?

Australia Visitor Visa is REQUIRED for all nationalities to enter Australia as a tourist, except for the below.

• New Zealand passport holders
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• eVisitor Visa
• Those transiting in Australia for less than 72 hours and can get a Transit visa .

Documents required

To support your application, you can attach as many as 60 documents online. You don’t have to attach that many but the more documents you provide, the better your chances of approval.

You have to satisfy the Home Office that:

• You are who you say you are
• You are a genuine visitor who will not overstay or work illegally
• You are of good character and not have a criminal record
• You won’t be a burden to Australia’s healthcare system

To do this, attach as many of these documents as you can :

Identity documents

• Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of the stay)
• Valid National ID card (if from a country that issues them)
• marriage or divorce certificate;
• change of name documents;
• documents that show other names you have been known by
• Residence Permit/Visa (if residence and citizenship differ)
• One passport-size photo

Genuine visitor documents

• Itemized personal bank statements for the last 3 months. Aim to have at least 5000 AUD in your bank account. The money cannot be deposited suddenly and inexplicably – it should be from legitimate sources and savings over time.
• Tax returns
• Credit card statements
• their relationship to you
• the purpose of your visit and length of stay
• if you will be staying with them
• Proof of their funds (if they will be paying for your stay)
• Your plans or travel itinerary while in Australia  
• a letter from your employer stating you plan to return to your job
• proof that you study at a school, college or university in your home country
• proof that you have immediate family members in your home country
• proof that you own a house or other major assets in your home country;
• Confirmed return flight ticket;
• Health Insurance

At a later date, you may be required to obtain and submit the following:

• Medical Certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

All non-English documents (except for police certificates) must be translated into English and all documents’ copies (both original and translations) must be certified.

Photo requirements

You need one passport-size digital photo for the Visitor Visa application. The photo must meet the following requirements. 

• Taken in the last 6 months
• Showing your head and shoulders against a plain background
• Neutral facial expression with mouth closed, eyes open, and looking at the camera
• Religious head coverings are allowed but must not obscure the face
• Piercing is allowed but must not cause any reflections or shadows

There is no official guidance for the size and resolution of pictures uploaded online but the file type must be JPG. You will get to move the photo to position your face within a frame.

As long as the picture is clear, crisp, and not excessively big, it will be accepted.

Visitor visa fee

The Australian Tourist Visa application fee is 190 AUD , payable online.

You may also have to pay for:

• Health checks
• Police certificates

Processing time

Australian immigration reports that 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% are processed in 21 days . These periods start after you submit your biometrics (if required).

Visitor Visa Application Process

How to apply

You must apply for your tourist visa online through the Immi Portal. Applying on paper is not possible for the visitor visa anymore. Follow the below steps:

• Go to the ImmiAccount portal and create an account
• Click on “New application” and pick “Visitor Visa (600)”.
• Enter your personal information, passport details, employment details and financial information
• Upload your documents such as passport, photo, etc.
• Pay the required visa fee
• Submit the application

The Visitor Visa is part of Australia’s biometrics program. If you apply for a Visitor Visa from any of the below countries, regardless of your nationality, you must give your biometrics.

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kazakhstan 
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates

If you apply from one of these countries, you will receive an email informing you that you need to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) to have your biometrics collected. The biometrics are usually a face photo and fingerprint scan.

You must complete the biometrics procedure within 14 days of getting this email otherwise your application becomes void without a refund!

AABCs are typically managed by VFS Global. They charge a service fee for biometric collection. This fee depends on AABC and the country you are applying from.

For example, the biometric service at AABC in Dubai, UAE is AED 109.17. The biometric service fee at AABC in Manila, Philippines is PHP 557.

How to schedule biometric appointment?

Within 24 hours of applying for your Visitor Visa, you will receive an email with a biometric request letter from Home Affairs. Follow these steps to schedule your biometric appointment.

Find the nearest ABCC to you and follow the prompts to schedule your biometric appointment.

How to attend biometric appointment?

Follow the below steps to attend your biometric appointment at an AABC.

• Arrive at the AABC at least 15 minutes before your appointment time
• Original passport
• Biometric appointment confirmation
• Biometric fee receipt and
• Biometric request letter received in the email from Home Affairs
• Your facial photo is taken and your 10 fingertips are scanned

What if you can’t attend your appointment?

If you can’t make an appointment, you can reschedule your appointment up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment date and time. You can reschedule up to 2 times.

What if you miss your appointment?

If you miss your scheduled appointment, you will lose the fee paid as the biometric fee is nonrefundable. You will also have to wait 24 hours to schedule a new appointment.

How to track status

You will receive the status of your application in your email. You can also track the status of the visa in your ImmiAccount.

How to download approved visa

When your Visitor Visa is approved, you will receive a grant letter in your email from Home Affairs. The grant letter is your Visitor Visa.

The Visitor visa is electronically linked to your passport, so you don’t need to download or print your Visitor Visa.

If you’re ever asked to show any proof, you can use the Grant Notification you received in your email. You can also download it from your ImmiAccount under “Visa Grant Details”.

How to check the validity of your Visitor Visa

The expiration date of your Australia eVisitor visa is indicated as “Must not arrive after” on the visa letter. If you lost your grant letter or don’t have a copy of your Visitor Visa, you can check the validity details on the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) portal by using either your Visa Grant Number or Transaction Reference Number.

Customer service

Refer to the Self-help Guidelines for information to troubleshoot any issues. If facing issues with your ImmiAccount or the Visitor visa application, contact customer service using the below webform

Web: ImmiAccount Technical Support Form

Procedure at the border

The Visitor Visa is digitally attached to your passport so you don’t need to print anything. When you enter Australia, simply present your passport and be ready to answer a few basic questions about your visit.

Eligible passport holders can use the Smart Gates for faster arrival and departure procedures.

All visitors including Australian citizens are required to fill out an Incoming Passenger Card on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get an australian tourist visa.

It can take up to 3 weeks to get an Australian tourist visa, especially if submitting your biometrics. It can be faster or slower depending on where you are applying from, your circumstances and the number of documents you submit.

How hard is it to get a tourist visa to Australia?

It is easy to get a tourist visa to Australia if you submit a complete application with as many documents. You must convince the Home Office that you won’t overstay or break the conditions of the visa.

How much bank balance is required for Australia tourist visa?

Australian Home Office doesn’t specify the minimum bank balance required for a tourist visa. Your bank account must show continuous cash flow and not a lump sum deposited recently. 

Based on the reports from travelers reports and recommendations from embassies, you should aim for at least 5,000 AUD in your bank account when you apply.

Can you get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia?

Yes, you can get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia if are from an eligible country and meet the requirements. Australian Visitor Visa is issued for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years depending on your nationality and circumstances. For example, Indian nationals can get an Australian tourist visa valid for 3 years.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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Visas to visit Australia

Whether you are visiting Australia for less than 72 hours or planning on a stay of several years you must have a valid Australian visa.

A visa is a form of permission for a non-citizen to enter, transit or remain in a particular country.

Information on visas to Australia can be found at the Department of Home Affairs .

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Tourist visa to Australia for US Citizens

Key aspects.

Cheapest and fastest visa for touristic purposes.

Visa Duration

12 months total, up to 90 days each visit .

Approval time

95% of tourist visas are granted within 24 hours .

If you are planning a visit to Australia for holiday, as a US citizen you will need an Australian tourist visa (also known as “Australian vacation visa”) .

A tourist visa for Australia is technically type of ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa: a visa that you simply apply for online without having to fill in a paper form or send in your passport to any embassy. This is why a touristic ETA permit is sometimes referred to also as “electronic tourist visa” or “e-tourist” visa : filling the Australian tourist visa form directly online is all there is to do .

To be able to apply for an Australian Tourist Visa you must be travelling to Australia for holiday or for visiting friends or family, and hold a valid passport.

In-depth information on Australian Tourist Visas

• Tourist Visas for Australia for American Citizens
• Australian Tourist Visa: How to Apply
• Tourist Visa Requirements for Americans
• Process and Processing Time of Australian Tourist Visas
• Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visas

Types of Australian Tourist Visas (Alternatives to Australian Touristic ETA)

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A standard Australian tourist visa ( Electronic Travel Authorization ) authorizes visits of up to three months at a time and is valid for 12 months after the date of issue. Unlike traditional visas, there are no paper applications to complete, and you will have no visa labels or stamps in your passport. Instead, your tourist visa for Australia will be electronically attached to your passport.

United States’ citizens can apply for a tourist visa to Australia using their passport , and the passport number will then be linked to the visa. If you lose your passport or it is stolen before you enter Australia, you will need to re-apply for a new vacation visa.

Apart from the standard ETA tourism visa, there are a few more specific tourist visa types one can request in order to travel to Australia as a tourist: if you feel an ETA does not satisfy your needs, you will need to determine the most appropriate visa for you among other visa options.

The most common short-stay tourist visa types for Australia are:

• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 601
• Work and Holiday Visa – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 462
• Tourist stream – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 600

Online Tourist Visa for Australia (ETA e-Tourist)

An e-tourist visa, which is also called an ETA, is a subclass 601 visa . You can use this visa to tour Australia, visit family or friends or study or train for short-term. Business visitors can also use this visa for short-term. An ETA tourist visa is a temporary visa that is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, and it is a multiple entry visa. For each entry, you can stay up to 3 months.

You can enter and leave as many times as you want as long as it is valid. However, the ETA cannot be extended: you must get another Australian tourist visa if you want to extend your holiday or stay longer for other reasons. U.S. passport holders who are planning trips shorter than 90 days are almost always immediately eligible for electronic tourist visas (ETAs) , which will be electronically matched to the traveler’s passport in the Australian immigration official databases.

More info on Online Tourist Visas for Australia (ETA) – updated for 2024:

• Both passport holders and travel agents can apply for ETAs.
• Overstaying a short stay tourist visa in Australia could lead to exclusion, detention and removal. If you plan to stay in Australia longer than 3 months per entry, please make sure you apply instead for the Long Term visa, subclass 600.
• Once you have your online tourist visa for Australia, you can use your e-passport at the SmartGate system when you arrive in Australia.

If you are not sure what tourist visa to apply for, we recommend you apply for this kind of visa .

Tourist Stream (Subclass 600)

The Tourist Stream visa is an alternative to the ETA tourist visa, but typically slower . Getting this holiday visa for Australia, you can visit family and friends, travel the country, and study or train for up to 3 months. This visa may be valid for between three months and 12 months, and you can request it for single entry or multiple entries. You can enter and leave as often as you want as long as the Tourist Stream is valid, but you may not stay more than 12 months during 18 months. This visa is also typically more expensive than an ETA and takes longer to process . Also, immigration office can request more documents from the applicant, for example a scanned copy of passport ID page or bank statement. In general, whenever possible we recommend applying for a Tourist ETA, for a faster – 100% online – visa release process.

Work and Holiday Visa Subclass 462

Getting a tourist visa for Australia also allowing you to work is possible: this is what an Australian Work and Holiday Visa is for , as this permits allows you to work during your stay in Australia, and to travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while working or studying.

With a work and holiday visa (often referred to also as “working holiday visa”) you can have the freedom to work to pay for your holiday, or study for up to 4 months . It is a temporary visa that is valid for up to 12 months from the date you enter the country. It cannot be extended. You can remain in the country up to 12 months, and you can leave and enter Australia as often as you like. Read more about work and holiday visas for Australia .

• Apply for WHV now

Additional type-independent Australian Tourist Visa Information:

• Regardless of the type of 2024 Australian tourist visa or ETA you need, it is highly recommended that you get health insuranc e to protect you during your time in Australia. You will be responsible for any healthcare costs that you incur while you are in Australia, and proper insurance coverage will help reduce your financial liability.
• Visas are electronically linked to your passport. There is no need for stamps or labels .
• Simplify the process by applying for your ETA tourist for Australia directly online as soon as possible .

Australian Tourist Visa for US Citizens: How to Apply

U.S. citizens need visas to travel to Australia. An Australian tourist visa requested from the USA via Electronic Travel Authorization will allow you to enter Australia for up to 90 days at a time for a year from the date of issue. After the first visit, subsequent visits are at the immigration officer’s discretion.

Getting a Tourist Visa to Australia from the USA

In order to get a tourist visa to Australia from USA you must have a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months upon entering Australia in order to comply with the requirements of most airlines flying to Australia – even though not strictly required by Australian Immigration Office) and obtain your US tourist visa to Australia before arriving in the country.

You may also need to complete a medical exam depending on your condition (any medical requirement – if needed – will be specified during the online application process). Visitors may also need to provide financial information upon request to receive their tourist visa. Also in this case, any requirement – if needed – will be specified during the online application process .

It is easy to apply for a tourist visa to Australia from the USA online: simply choose the right visa for your needs and follow the instructions on-screen. Most visa requests are processed and approved instantly .

Australian Tourist Visa Requirements for Americans

The conditions and eligibility for visas can vary based on the type of visa. Most U.S. citizens are eligible for ETAs as long as they hold valid passports.

US Passport Validity and Photo Requirements

We strongly recommend that your US passport be valid for at least 6 months upon entering Australia . This is why if your passport is due to expire soon or during the time you will be travelling, you may need to get a new passport before applying. Australian tourist visa photo requirements are similar to passport photos. Please ensure your photos are accurate and current.

Documents Required to US Citizens for an Australian Tourist Visa

The document checklist can vary based on the type of visa requested: with an ETA, you will only need your passport, and the ETA permit will be electronically attached to your passport.

For other visa types, you may be asked for other identification, including the biographical pages of your passport, travel documents and the IDs of your fellow travelers. Other required documents may be requested if authorities are not satisfied as to your identity.

Funds Required for an Australian Tourist Visa

When travelling to Australia, you may be required to show proof of funds. This can include displaying a minimum bank balance on your bank statement, audits, taxation records or other proof of satisfactory employment and income. After the application is processed, in the rare case a bank statement is required by Australian Immigration in order to verify your bank balance, an immigration officer will contact you .

Medical Requirements for an Australian Travel Visa

If you are applying for a non-ETA Australian visa and plan on staying in Australia for more than 6 months, you might be required to complete a health check and a chest X-ray. This can extend your visa application process up to 20 days. You are more likely to be required to complete a medical test if you are from a high-risk area or are over 75. In these cases, Yellow Fever is the only vaccination requirement.

Australian Tourist Visa Age Limits for American Citizens

For US passport holders willing to travel from USA to Australia there is no age limit on tourist visas . Of course, anyone who is travelling to Australia without an Australian passport will need a visa on arrival – and for a child under 18, the ETA will be based on the child’s passport. This means children will need separate ETAs, using details from their passports (children who are on their parents’ passports also need their own ETAs, but the information from their parents’ passport will be used).

Process and Processing Time for Australian Tourist Visas

Visa processing time for an australian eta tourist visa (subclass 601).

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is the most commonly used Australian Tourist Visa. The process can be completed online and requires no extra application forms, no visa labels and no passport stamps.

To be eligible for and maintain your instant Australian tourist visa, you must abide by specific conditions, including – in order:

• Being free of criminal convictions
• Passing a health check as required
• Departing within the required time period
• Not working during your time in Australia
• Not engaging in study or training for more than three months

In general, the Australian tourist visa processing time for a Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) can take from 48 hours to more than a month . A Tourist ETA though – which is the most common type of tourist visa – has a much lower estimated waiting time, as it is much faster to process. An ETA e-visa for tourists can often be requested and issued just days before your planned visit . It is a 100 percent secure, paperless process, and the visa will be electronically linked to your passport just moments after it has been issued.

However, we always recommend to request your Touristic ETA Visa at least a few weeks before departure , to avoid any risk. Don’t worry though – with an ETA, you can also track your application online via an online tracking system.

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) Processing Time

The amount of time taken for an Australian tourist visa to be processed can vary based on how promptly you supply the supporting documents, your response to requests for further information, how long it takes to verify your information and peak processing times.

Also, the Australia tourist visa process is quite straightforward:

• Check that your current U.S. passport is valid.
• Apply for your visa.
• Wait for verification of receipt.
• Wait for notification of your status.

If the Australian tourist visa procedure was successful, you will be granted a visa. You can keep track of your progress using the online Australia tourist visa tracking system.

The maximum processing time for a conventional Australian tourist visa (Subclass 600) is about a month , with the waiting time ranging from 20 to 33 days in the vast majority of cases. For fast-tracked visas or ETAs, the waiting time can be mere minutes or days, especially if you have all the necessary documentation to complete the verification time.

Finally, as far as Work and Holiday Visa Processing Times are concerned, we recommend you check the dedicated page on this site .

Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visa

Tourist visas are valid for varying periods of time, depending on the type of visa.

The ETA is a 12-month tourist visa . It is a popular visa, but it is limited regarding the length of stay and only allows visitors to remain in Australia for 3 months or 90 days at a time . You can enter as often as you like as long during the one year the tourist visa is valid.

For a visit of longer duration or if you want to stay more than 3 months during any period, you will need a different Australian visa. The tourist visa stream (Subclass 600) has a length and duration that can vary based on the purpose of the stay. In most cases though, Australian tourist visa validity lasts at least 12 months .

As an example, the Australian e600 visitor visa is a 6-month tourist visa for Australia. It also allows you to stay in the country up to one year depending on the reasons for your visit. You can also enter and leave the country as needed as long as the visa is valid.

The subclass 870 visa instead is a longer-term 3-year tourist visa specifically designed for parents. With it, parents can stay in Australia for 3 or 5 years and no more than 10 years. This allows them to enter and re-enter Australia as needed to visit their stepchildren, adopted children or biological children more conveniently and affordably.

Whether you are planning an Australian trip that lasts 2 weeks, 90 days or even a year, there is a visa designed to suit your purpose. Check and apply online to find the right one for you or to explore samples of tourist visas.

There are several types of tourist visas in Australia that may apply if you do not qualify for a Tourist ETA or if the ETA does not suit you needs, such as a work and holiday visa or other types of Australian visas for tourism. Here they are:

Australian Work and Holiday Visa

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600 – Application form 1419)

The Australian tourist visa stream Subclass 600 (to which people apply using form n.1419) is a 6-month tourist visa for Australia. It also allows you to stay in the country up to one year depending on the reasons for your visit. You can also enter and leave the country as needed as long as the visa is valid.

Australian Visiting Academic Visa

The former Australia Tourist Visa 419 is closed to new applications for 2024 . However, the Tourist Visa Subclass 408 may be an alternative. This visa, which is also called the Temporary Activity Visa, allows you to participate in special approved programs, including:

• Gap year volunteer work
• Cultural enrichment programs
• Youth exchanges
• Community programs
• School language assistants

This visa is valid for up to 12 months.

Australia Tourist Visa 771 (Australia Transit Visa)

Also known as the Australian Transit Visa, this visa allows people to spend up to 72 hours in Australia to “pass through”. With this visa, you may not spend more than 72 hours in the country.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about re-entering Australia with a tourist visa, about extending your stay in Australia as a tourist or about renewing your tourist visa while you are in Australia.

Is the Australian tourist visa multiple entry?

The Australian ETA is good for 90 days at a time, also allowing multiple-entries . This means that within one year sinve when the ETA Tourist visa has been issued you can enter, leav and re-enter Australia as many times as you wish – as long as each entry lasts a maximum of 90 days.

However, if your current visa is due to expire while you are still in the country, you will need to apply for an Australian tourist visa renewal, via a Long-stay tourist visa application .

What happens if I stay too long and my Australian tourist visa has expired?

Overstaying your stay with a tourist visa in Australia will result in your becoming an “unlawful non-citizen” – which can lead to detention and removal from the country. Worse, it could interfere with your ability to re-enter Australia on a tourist visa in the future. If you overstay your visa by more than 28 days, you could even become excluded and prevented from re-entering Australia on a tourist visa for as long as 3 years. Don’t do it.

Can I change my Australian visa once I am in the country?

No, you cannot change your visa type , such as an Australia tourist visa multiple entry, once you are in the country. However, you can apply for a further stay via the Long-Stay Tourist Visa, subclass 676.

What are my other options for extending my tourist visa?

Because the consequences of an Australia tourist visa overstay can be so serious, it is critical that you apply for a tourist visa renewal or extension as soon as possible and before your visa has expired . Applying online is fast and convenient.

• Extend your visa

If you are planning to travel to Australia with a ETA Tourst Visa, you must know that it is not legal to work with an ETA . ETA-visitors have no right to “work”. However, they can do volunteer work or engage in other business activities, such as business meetings, conferences or seminars . Of course, you can stay in Australia on your tourist visa while looking for work, but once you found it you should obtain a different kind of visa in order to legally maintain your work.

However, working on a “tourist visa” in Australia is fairly common – especially for those who wish to work to pay for their holidays. If you want to legally work in Australia during your holiday though you will need a special, dedicated visa – not an ETA. This visa is called “ Work and Holiday Visa ” (often referred to also as “Working Holiday Visa”).

You can do any kind of work or jobs while on a tourist visa in Australia. However, your Work and Holiday Visa must be used within one year of the date it is issued, and it will be active for 12 months from the date you enter the country.

A working holiday visa cannot be extended: if you choose to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa. Additionally, you cannot bring dependent children or other family members with you, and you must pay taxes from anything you earn during your tourist visa working days.

The cost for a work and holiday tourist visa is of $ 625.00 as of 2024, but additional costs may also arise, including costs for police certificates, biometrics and health checks. Processing time can take from 13 to 22 days but may take longer if more information is needed or for verification purposes. Private health insurance coverage is highly recommended during your stay in the country. Read more about Work and Holiday Australian Visas for US Citizens here .

• Apply for a WHV

According to Australia Marriage Law, you do not need to be an Australian resident to get married in Australia . You simply need the tourist visa (e.g. visa subclass 651) and you must file a Notice of Intended Marriage form along with any other requested documents .

If you are planning on getting married in Australia on a tourist visa, your celebrant can help ensure you meet all necessary requirements , including that you:

• Are not married to anyone else
• Are not marrying to a closely related family member
• Are at least 18 years old
• Freely consent to the marriage

Notice that if you plan to live in Australia after marriage, you might need to apply for permanent residency as needed .

In order to obtain your Australian Tourist Visa, you will need to pay an application charge when applying for your visa – plus all costs related to the visa release. The total Australia tourist visa cost can therefore vary based on the type of visa and when you apply. Both paper applications and e-visas such as ETA tourist visa costs must be paid online , and forms of payment accepted are credit cards and PayPal.

While there are no Australia tourist visa fees associated with the ETA, there is an online service charge of $ 69.00 .

The cost of a Work and Holiday visa is instead of $ 625.00 .

The visa application fee may change periodically: if the Australian immigration tourist visa fees increase between the date of the application and the date of the receipt, the new fee will apply.

Australian Government official resources:

Visas and Migration

Latest news.

For the latest immigration and citizenship news, see  News - Archive . 

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app which you can download for free from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android) . For more information, see our Step by step guide .  There is no Visa Application Charge (VAC) for an ETA, however there is an application service fee of AUD20 to use the Australian ETA app. European passport holders may be eligible for an eVisitor (subclass 651) . Don’t be Scammed We are aware of third-party websites purporting to be associated with the Department of Home Affairs (the Department), charging exorbitant fees to lodge ETAs on behalf of visa applicants. Be aware that you are being scammed if:

• you apply for your ETA via a website – ETAs can only be applied for using the ETA app 
• you pay more than AUD20 to lodge the application
• you are told to pay extra fees for premium service or extra charges for ‘expedited’ visa processing
• the information you are relying on hasn’t come from an official website ending in .gov.au

Some of the known websites which are not official Department-approved platforms to make an ETA application are:

• https://www.jsdimmigrations.com  
• https://www.jsdvisa.com  
• https://australiaevisas.org  
• https://australiavacationsonline.com
• https://www.ivisa.com/

If you choose to use one of these third-party websites, you risk:

• losing any upfront cash that you have paid to the agent
• having your ETA refused
• not being permitted on the flight to Australia
• being refused entry to Australia at the Australian border by the  Australian Border Force

In order to protect yourself from visa scams, you should only deal with reputable travel agents, or official Australian Government channels via the Department of Home Affairs website .

If you are aware of, or suspect a scam in relation to ETAs, or other visas to Australia, please report it to Australia's Border Watch by visiting homeaffairs.gov.au/report .

Information on visas to Australia can be found on the  Department of Home Affairs website .

Explore visa options  on the department's website to help you find the visa most likely to meet your specific circumstances.

Visa applications, fees & processing times

Most visa applications can be lodged online by creating an  ImmiAccount . This is our preferred method of visa lodgement to helps us process your application faster.

If you are lodging an application in the US, please refer to the following information before submitting your application:

• Processing times
• Visa requirements  (health, character, biometrics)
• Translation of documents not in English

Please note, you should not book flights or make travel commitments until you have a valid visa to travel to Australia. The Department of Home Affairs will not be liable for any financial loss incurred by travellers whose visa application was finalised later than expected, or where an application is not successful.

Visa and citizenship applications are managed by the Department of Home Affairs. Embassy staff are unable to assist with general visa or citizenship enquiries. 

The Department of Home Affairs website has the most up to date and comprehensive information on applying for visas and citizenship. The website also has useful definitions and tools to help you understand the department’s requirements. Visit the website at Immigration and citizenship .

If you are having trouble locating information on the department’s website, the Home Affairs Digital Assistant may be able to help. The Digital Assistant can help you find information on Australian visas, citizenship and border entry. Visit the  Immigration and citizenship  website and click the Ask a question   Digital Assistant button to get started.

Global Service Centre

If you require additional information, you may telephone the Global Service Centre on +61 2 6196 0196, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm your local time.

International calls may be subject to charges imposed by your local carrier. You may wish to consider using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider to avoid potentially high charges.

Using an interpreter

When you call the GSC, select option 6 to engage a Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) interpreter in your language. Option 6 can be selected straight after dialling the GSC number.

Alternatively, a TIS interpreter can also be engaged directly via:

•    TIS website:  Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) or

•    Home Affairs website See:  Family and friends helping with your application .

Compliments, complaints and suggestions

Your feedback is valuable to the Department of Home Affairs. The department uses your feedback to improve services and investigate and respond to any issues of concern. You can find more information on the department’s website at  Compliments, complaints and suggestions .

Allegations related to suspicious border activities

If it doesn’t feel right, flag it anonymously with Border Watch. Border Watch is the single collection point for the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border Force (ABF) for allegations related to suspicious border activities and is not limited to immigration and citizenship. One small observation could help stop a much larger border crime.  You can report suspicious immigration, customs and border related activity via the  Border Watch Online Report .

Beware of Visa Scams

To avoid being scammed, you can check the Register of Migration Agents on the  OMARA website , to receive the protections of an OMARA registered Migration Agent.

There are Australian registered migration agents working all around the world. These agents are subject to the same Code of Conduct, professional development and regulations as registered migration agents based in Australia. More information about Australia's efforts to ensure the integrity of the migration advice profession is available at:  www.mara.gov.au .

Further information on visa scams is available on the Department of Home Affairs website .

• Partner visa (Temporary) (subclass 820)
• Partner visa (Permanent) (subclass 801)
• Prospective Marriage visa
• Aged Parent visa
• Parent visa
• Partner (Provisional) visa
• Partner (Migrant) visa
• Remaining Relative visa
• Adoption visa
• Dependent Child visa
• Aged Dependent Relative visa
• Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) visa
• Contributory Aged Parent visa
• Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa
• New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa
• Orphan Relative visa
• Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa
• Contributory Parent visa
• First Work and Holiday visa
• Second Work and Holiday visa
• Third Work and Holiday visa
• First Working Holiday Visa
• Second Working Holiday visa
• Third Working Holiday visa
• Direct Entry stream
• Labour agreement stream
• Temporary Residence Transition stream
• Skilled Nominated visa
• Points tested stream
• New Zealand stream
• Hong Kong stream
• Short-term stream
• Medium-term stream
• Labour Agreement stream
• Subsequent Entrant
• Regional provisional stream
• Direct entry stream
• Employer Sponsored stream
• Subsequent entrant
• Skilled-Recognised Graduate visa
• Skilled regional visa
• Global Talent visa
• Invited pathway
• Extended stay pathway
• Subsequent entry pathway
• Graduate Work stream
• Post-Study Work stream
• Second Post-Study Work stream
• Replacement Stream
• Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa
• Main applicant
• Training visa
• Government Agreement stream
• Foreign Government Agency stream
• Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or Consular) stream
• Privileges and Immunities stream
• Pacific Australia Labour Mobility stream
• Australian Government Endorsed Events
• Special Program
• Religious Work
• Research activities
• Invited for other social and cultural activity (Invited Participant)
• Sporting Activities
• Entertainment Activities
• Superyacht Crew
• Exchange Arrangements
• Domestic work for executives
• Tourist stream (apply in Australia)
• Tourist stream (apply outside Australia) 
• Sponsored Family stream
• Business visitor stream
• Approved Destination Status stream
• Frequent traveller stream
• Transit visa
• Electronic Travel Authority
• Business owner visa
• Investor visa
• State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner visa
• State or Territory Sponsored Investor visa
• Business Innovation stream
• Investor stream
• Significant Investor stream
• Premium investor stream
• Entrepreneur stream
• Business Innovation Extension stream
• Significant Investor Extension stream
• Premium Investor stream
• Student visa
• Student Guardian visa
• Living in Australia
• Jobs in Australia
• Our services

Australian Visa Application Fees 2024

Australian Visa fees are subject to periodic adjustments. The specific fee for your visa depends on when your application is formally received. Should there be an increase in the fee from the time you submit your application to when it’s received, the updated charge will apply. It’s important to ensure that your daily financial limits and available funds are adequate to cover any additional surcharge.

The fee for processing a visa application, known as the visa application charge, is denominated in Australian dollars (AUD). There are instances where this charge may not be applicable.

To assist you in calculating your visa’s cost, we have organised the Visa Pricing Table into various categories. These categories reflect your intended activities in Australia and include options for visiting, studying, working, living, and other purposes, as well as categories for repealed or closed visas.

Visa Application Charges

Explanation of application charges.

The fee for an Australian visa application, referred to as the visa application charge, is denominated in Australian dollars (AUD). Notably, in certain scenarios, there may be no charge for the visa application.

This charge is typically split into two instalments:

• First Instalment: This is required at the time of submitting your visa application.
• Second Instalment: Payable prior to the visa being granted, this instalment may not be applicable in all cases. The Department of Home Affairs will inform you if and when this second instalment is due.

In cases where your visa necessitates sponsorship or nomination, additional fees may be incurred by your sponsor or nominator. It’s also important to verify if any exemptions to the visa application charge apply to your specific situation.

Surcharges on Payments

When paying for visa application charges, or sponsorship or nomination fees, using credit cards or PayPal, a surcharge may be added. The current surcharge rates include:

• American Express: 1.40%
• Diners Club International: 1.99%
• Mastercard: 1.40% (Also applies to Debit Mastercards)
• PayPal: 1.01%
• Union Pay: 1.90%
• Visa: 1.40% (Also applies to Debit Visa cards)

Visa Application Charge Instalments Breakdown

• First Instalment: This may comprise the base application charge, an additional applicant charge, a non-internet application charge, and a subsequent temporary application charge, depending on your circumstances. To accurately determine the first instalment, you will need to consider your visa subclass, the number of additional applicants, and whether an internet application is feasible for your visa type.
• Second Instalment: Required after application submission but before visa issuance, this instalment may not be necessary if your application is either refused or withdrawn. For certain visas, the second instalment can be a substantial amount, so it’s advisable to check this before applying. If the base application charge for your visa is nil, then all other components of the first instalment are also nil, exempting you and any additional applicants from certain charges.

Additional Applicant Charge

Each additional applicant in a combined visa application is subject to this charge, which varies based on the visa type, the applicant’s age, and their location at the time of application lodgement. Exemptions to this charge apply under certain conditions.

Examples of Additional Applicant Charge Payment

• Example 1: Yin applies for a Parent Migrant visa, including her husband as an additional applicant. The total charge comprises the base charge plus the additional applicant charge.
• Example 2: Paul applies for a Student Visa, including his wife and child as additional applicants. The total charge includes charges for each applicant.

Non-Internet Application Charge

This charge applies if you opt to submit a paper application form through various non-electronic means, including post, courier, or in-person submissions.

Importance of Correct Payment

A visa application is only valid once the Department of Home Affairs receives the complete first instalment of the visa application charge. Underpayment can delay processing and impact your visa eligibility. Additionally, if the visa fee increases while your correct payment is pending, you will be required to pay the new amount. In cases of insufficient payment, the Department may contact you for the outstanding amount or return your application for resubmission with the correct fee.

For credit card payments, ensure sufficient funds are available for the transaction to be successfully processed, which might occur sometime after the application is received.

Refund Policy

Typically, the visa application charge is non-refundable, even if the application is refused or withdrawn. The second instalment is not required if the application is withdrawn or refused before it’s due.

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• Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)
• Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)
• Skilled visas
• Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa (subclass 476)
• Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
• Skilled regional visa (subclass 887)
• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
• Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191)
• Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa(subclass 489)
• Global Talent visa (subclass 858)
• Employer sponsored
• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa(subclass 482 Visa)
• Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)
• Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400) – Highly Specialised Work stream
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)
• Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa (subclass 187)
• Training visa (subclass 407)
• Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403)
• Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408)
• Student visa (subclass 500)
• Student Guardian visa (subclass 590)
• Partner visas
• Partner visa (apply in Australia)(subclasses 820 and 801)
• Partner visa (apply overseas)(subclasses 309 and 100)
• Prospective Marriage visa (subclass 300)
• Parent visas
• Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143)
• Aged Parent visa (subclass 804)
• Parent visa (subclass 103)
• Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173)
• Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 870)
• Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864)
• Child visas
• Adoption visa (subclass 102)
• Child visa (subclass 101)
• Child visa (subclass 802)
• Dependent Child visa (subclass 445)
• Relative visas
• Aged Dependent Relative visa (subclass 114)
• Aged Dependent Relative visa (subclass 838)
• New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461)
• Orphan Relative visa (subclass 117)
• Orphan Relative visa (subclass 837)
• Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835)
• Remaining Relative visa (subclass 115)
• Carer visa (subclass 836)
• Carer visa (subclass 116)
• eVisitor (subclass 651)
• Visitor visa (subclass 600)
• Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601)
• Transit visa (subclass 771)
• Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888)
• Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa (subclass 188)
• Business owner visa (subclass 890)
• Investor visa (subclass 891)
• State or Territory Sponsored Business Owner visa (subclass 892)
• State or Territory Sponsored Investor visa (subclass 893)
• Bridging visa C (subclass 030)
• Bridging visa B (subclass 020)
• Bridging visa A (subclass 010)
• Bridging visa E (BVE) (subclasses 050 and 051)
• Crew Travel Authority visa (subclass 942)
• Former Resident visa (subclass 151)
• Maritime Crew visa (subclass 988)
• Medical Treatment visa (subclass 602)
• Resident Return visas (subclasses 155 and 157)
• Special Purpose visa
• Confirmatory (Residence) visa (subclass 808)
• Special Category visa (subclass 444)
• Pacific Engagement Visa (Subclass 192)
• Australian Citizenship Application

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Getting ready to apply for a visa?

Subclass 600 Visa Fee: All About Australian Visitor Visa 600 Fees Explained

In this article, you will find detailed explaination for Subclass 600 Visa Fee .

It is very important to remember that a visitor visa in Australia needs to be applied separately for each individual.

Example: A parent and child need to lodge a separate visitor visa or tourist visa application in Australia.

Table of Contents

The following factors affect how much an applicant pays for the Visitor Visa Australia fees Subclass 600:

• Tourist or visitor fee for Australia depends upon whether the subclass 600 visitor visa applicant is lodging his or her visitor visa application while they in Australia or while they are outside Australia.
• It also depends on if you are a citizen of a country for which Australia allows visitor visa priority processing.

What is the priority fee or fast track fee for visitor visa?

The citizens of following countries can apply for visitor visa for priority consideration under Tourist Stream and Business Visitor Stream. The visitor visa subclass 600 application under priority consideration can only be lodged while the citizens of the countries below are in their home country.

The fee for a request for priority consideration of an Australian visitor visa application under Tourist Stream and Business Visitor stream is $1000. It is sometimes also referred to as fast tracking fee.

• Republic of India
• People’s Republic of China
• United Arab Emirates
• Australia Tourist Visa or Visitor visa 600 fee also depends on the stream of visitor visa being applied by the applicant.
• Australia visitor visa or tourist fee also depends on the visa you hold if that visa was applied for when you were in Australia. Some applicants may have to pay a subsequent temporary application charge for their visitor visa application while they are in Australia. The cost of subsequent temporary application charge is $700.

What is a Subsequent Temporary Application Charge?

You can refer to our article on Subsequent temporary application charge by clicking on the link below:

Subsequent Temporary Application Charge Calculator:

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/fees-and-charges/explanation-of-visa-application-charges/subsequent-temporary-application-charge

Subclass 600 Visitor Visa Australia Fees

The Australian visitor or tourist visa application fees in various multiple streams are explained below:

Tourist Stream (For Onshore Applicants)

The Australian visitor visa or tourist visa application fees in tourist stream is $380 when you lodge an application while you are onshore in Australia.

Tourist Stream (Offshore Applicants)

The Australian visitor visa or tourist visa application fees in tourist stream is $150 when you lodge a visitor visa application while you are outside Australia.

Business Visitor Visa Stream

The visitor visa or tourist visa application fees for visitor visa in sponsored family stream is $150. An application for a visitor or a tourist visa subclass 600 in Business Visitor stream can only be lodged outside Australia.

Sponsored Family Stream

The visitor visa or tourist visa application fees for visitor visa in sponsored family stream is $150. An application for a visitor or a tourist visa subclass 600 in sponsored family stream can only be lodged outside Australia.

Approved Destination Status Stream

The visitor visa or tourist visa application fees for visitor visa in approved destination status stream is $150. This visitor visa subclass 600 stream is only for citizens of People’s Republic of China who intend to Travel to Australia as part of a tour organised by an approved travel agent.

An application for a visitor or a tourist visa subclass 600 in Approved Destination stream can only be lodged outside Australia from People’s Republic of China.

Frequent Traveller Stream

The visitor visa or tourist visa application fees for visitor visa in Frequent Traveller stream is $ 1120. This visitor visa subclass 600 stream is only for citizens of People’s Republic of China who travel to Australia very often for business or personal reasons.

An application for a visitor or a tourist visa subclass 600 in Frequent Traveller stream can only be lodged outside Australia from People’s Republic of China.

What are the fees for Parent Visitor Visa Australia?

The fee for visitor visa or tourist visa for parents of Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents is no different to applicants who are not parents. The fee depends upon the stream of visitor visa applied.

Know More About Visas: https://oracleimmigration.com.au/list-of-australian-visas/

Disclaimer: The above information is not tailored to personal circumstances. For information relevant to personal circumstances, please book an appointment with Oracle Immigration Consultant’s expert migration agents in Australia. For any inquiries, please contact us at +61 430812158. We are premier Immigration agency and consultancy in Melbourne (Bundoora and Geelong).

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• Visitor Visa – Subclass 600
• Student Visa – Subclass 500
• Student Guardian (590)
• Training Visa (407)
• Temporary Graduate Visa (485)
• Aged Parent Visa (804)
• Remaining Relative Visa – Offshore (115)
• Sponsored Parent Visa (870)
• Partner Visa (820)
• Aged Dependent Visa -Offshore (838)
• Aged Dependent Visa -Offshore (114)
• Carer Visa – Offshore (116)
• Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa
• Carer Visa – Onshore (836)
• Remaining Relative Visa – Onshore (835)
• New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship (461)
• Partner Visa Subclass 309
• Partner visa 100
• Contributory Aged Parent Visa Subclass 864
• Business and Investment Visa
• Employer Sponsored Visa (482)
• Skilled Independent Visa (189)
• Skilled Regional Visa (491)
• Global Talent Visa (858)
• SERS Provisional Visa – 494
• Employer Nomination Scheme (186)
• Skilled Resident Visa (887)
• Skilled Nominated Visa (190)
• 3 Month Resident Return Visa (157)
• Resident Return Visa (155)
• Australian Citizenship
• Study in Australia
• Professional Year Program
• Post Arrival Services
• Health Insurance
• MRT/AAT Appeal
• Skilled Point Test Calculator
• Trades Recognition Australia
• Civil Engineering Technician Skill Assessment
• Veterinary Nurse ANZSCO 361311 Migration Skill Assessment
• Medical Administrator Skill Assessment ANZSCO Code: 134211
• Quantity Surveyor ANZSCO 233213 Skill Assessment
• Architect ANZSCO 232111 Skill Assessment
• RESIDENTIAL CARE OFFICER ANZSCO 411715 SKILL ASSESSMENT
• DISABILITY SERVICES OFFICER ANZSCO 411712 SKILL ASSESSMENT
• FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER ANZSCO 411713 SKILL ASSESSMENT
• YOUTH WORKER ANZSCO 411716 SKILL ASSESSMENT
• Grain, Oilseed, Pasture Grower, Field Crop Grower (ANZSCO Code 121214) Skill Assessment
• Medical Laboratory Scientist ANZSCO 234611 Skill Assessment
• COMMUNITY WORKER SKILL ASSESSMENT (ANZSCO 411711)
• Food Technologist Skill Assessment Australia
• VetAssess Australia
• Australia Computer Society (ACS)
• Engineers Australia (EA)
• CPA Australia
• State Nomination
• CDR Writing Services
• Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA)
• Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMCS)

VISAS TO AUSTRALIA

Ph: 0475 036 111.

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

ABOUT THIS VISA

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is a temporary visa for tourists, business visitors or to visit family for 3, 6 or 12 months. There are 6 streams for this visa type.

COSTS & DETAILS OF THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600)

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) currently has varied costs depending upon which stream you apply for. The processing times can vary depending upon the stream you apply for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

WHAT THIS VISA LETS YOU DO

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows you to temporarily stay in Australia for tourist, visit or other business purposes for up to between 3, 6 and up to 12 months. What you are able to do is dependent upon what stream you apply for. For more information, scroll down below.

TOURIST STREAM (APPLY FROM AUSTRALIA)​​

WHAT THIS STREAM LETS YOU DO

The cost of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Tourist Stream (Apply from Australia) is currently $365AUD and you can stay for up to 12 months. Most processing times are within 26 days. With this visa you can:

visit family or friends

be here as a tourist, for a cruise or for any purpose except business or medical treatment

You can study or train for up to 3 months in total on this visa. But if your main reason for travelling to Australia is study, a student visa might be more appropriate.

You cannot work.

You will need a visa if you enter Australia during a cruise. If your cruise is a round trip cruise, the time you spend on the cruise counts as time spent in Australia - that is, we do not consider you have left Australia. A round trip cruise will not reset your stay period on your visa. Ask your cruise operator or travel agent if we consider your cruise to be a round trip cruise.

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600) - TOURIST STREAM (APPLY FROM AUSTRALIA)

To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Tourist Stream (Apply from Australia) , you will need to demonstrate that you:

Meet the necessary health requirements.

Meet the necessary character requirements.

Have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your trip.

Be a genuine visitor - This means you have the intention to visit Australia temporarily and only do the things that the visa allows you to do.

You must demonstrate that it is in the best interests of a child if you are under 18.

TOURIST STREAM (APPLY OUTSIDE  AUSTRALIA)​​

The cost of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Tourist Stream (Apply outside Australia) is currently $145AUD and you can stay for up to 3, 6, or 12 months. Most processing times are within 26 days. With this visa you can: :

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600) - TOURIST STREAM - APPLY OUTSIDE AUSTRALIA

To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Tourist Stream (Apply Outside Australia) , you will need to demonstrate that you:

You must have adequate health insurance.

You must have no outstanding debts to the Australian government.

SPONSORED FAMILY STREAM

The cost of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Sponsored Family Stream is currently $145AUD (however the Department usually requests a security bond). You can stay for up to 3, 6, or 12 months. Most processing times are within 55 days. With this visa you can: :

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600) - SPONSORED FAMILY STREAM

To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Sponsored Family Stream , you will need to demonstrate that you:

You must have a sponsor. Your sponsor can be either:

a family member in Australia

an Australian government official

If a family member wants to support you without becoming a sponsor, you can apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) Tourist stream. Provide a letter of invitation from your family member with your application.

BUSINESS VISITOR STREAM

The cost of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Business Visitor Stream is currently $145AUD. You can stay for up to 3 months. Most processing times are within 18 days. With this visa you can:

make general business or employment enquiries

investigate, negotiate, enter into or review a business contract

conduct activities as part of an official government visit

take part in a conference, trade fair or seminar. The organisers can't pay you to take part

You can't:

work for or provide services to a business or organisation based in Australia

sell goods or services directly to the public

If you want to do short-term work in Australia that isn't a business visitor activity, consider applying for a temporary work visa.

APEC Business Travel Card holders

You might not need to apply for a visa to travel to Australia if you hold an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card (ABTC). We consider you to have applied for a Visitor visa when you applied for the ABTC.

ABTC holders (other than New Zealanders) might be granted a Visitor (subclass 600) Business Visitor stream visa to visit Australia.  If you hold an ABTC with ‘AUS’ printed on the back, you can enter Australia for short-stay business visitor or tourism activities for as long as the ABTC is valid. The ABTC is valid for 5 years from the date we issue it.

If you apply for and are granted a separate visa, the visa associated with your ABTC will cease.

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600) - BUSINESS VISITOR STREAM

To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Business Visitor Stream , you will need to demonstrate that you:

Perform Business Activities. As a business visitor, you can:

APPROVED DESTINATION STATUS STREAM

This visa stream is for citizens from certain areas of China visiting Australia on a tour organised by an approved travel agent. This visa lasts for the time frame specified in your visa grant letter. The department will consider the length of your tour when we determine your stay period. The cost of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Approved Destination Status Stream is currently $145AUD. You can stay for the period or until the date we specify in your grant letter. Most applications are granted within 4 days. With this visa you can:

can enter Australia with your approved tour group

can participate in activities that are part of your tour

must leave Australia with your tour group before your visa expires

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600) - APPROVED DESTINATION STATUS STREAM

To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Approved Destination Status Stream , you will need to demonstrate that you:

It must be in the best interests of a child under 18.

FREQUENT TRAVELLER STREAM

This visa stream is for citizens of the People's Republic of China who travel often to Australia for business or personal reasons.. The visa can be granted for up to 10 years. Stay up to 3 months each time you enter for up to 12 months in any 2 year period. The cost of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Frequent Traveller Stream is currently $1065AUD. You can stay for up to 3 months at a time. Most applications are granted within 15 days. With this visa you can:

be here as a tourist, for a cruise or a holiday

undertake business visitor activities

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600) - FREQUENT TRAVELLER STREAM

To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Frequent Traveller Stream , you will need to demonstrate that you:

HOW TO APPLY FOR THIS VISAS

The  Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) needs to be done right first time and to avoid unnecessary delay, use a registered migration agent Mark Pelley - Principal Migration Agent for Visas To Australia. The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) requires substantial documentation to support claims made in the application. This process can be lengthy and confusing. Failure to correctly apply for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) could result in a rejection from the Department of Home Affairs and having to reapply and to pay all costs again. Contact VISAS TO AUSTRALIA to help you apply for this visa.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY

Book an appointment with VISAS TO AUSTRALIA today by calling us on 0403 875 409 or send us an email [email protected] .

To see other BUSINESS visas available, click on the links above or to go back to a list of the different types of visas, click HERE .

Visitor Visa Fees for Australia: Costs and Application Charges

One of the initial questions that arise when planning a trip to Australia revolves around the cost of tourist visas. Understanding the breakdown of visitor visa fees for Australia is crucial before initiating the application process.

Types of Visitor Visas and Associated Fees

The cost of an Australian visitor visa varies depending on the specific type of visa applied for. Generally, there are three main categories of visitor visas, and the eligibility for each is contingent on the passport holder's country of origin.

Here’s an overview of the current Australian visitor visa application fees as of December, 2023:

eVisitor (Subclass 651): No visa fee is applicable for this category.

Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601): A fee of $20 is charged for this visa type.

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): The fee for this visa type stands at $190.

It's imperative to note that each applicant, regardless of age, must pay a separate fee, and each individual intending to enter Australia must possess their own visa.

Understanding the Visa Application Charge (VAC)

The Visa Application Charge (VAC) isn’t the fee for acquiring the visa but rather for processing the application. Importantly, if your visa application is unsuccessful, no refund will be issued by the Government. Similarly, if the visa approval is delayed and granted after your intended visit date, refunds are not provided. Thus, it’s advisable to submit a comprehensive and timely application to avoid any unforeseen issues or delays.

Additional Considerations for Sponsored Family Stream Applicants

For those applying under the Sponsored Family Stream of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), the sponsor might be required to pay a bond, determined on a case-by-case basis. This bond is held by the Government as security and is reimbursed upon the visa holder's departure from Australia.

Understanding the nuances of visitor visa fees in Australia is essential to budgeting and planning for a visit Down Under. Ensuring a thorough and complete application submission is key to avoiding delays and maximising the chances of a successful visa approval.

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• Australian Tourist Visa - Subclass 600

Australian Visa's

• SKILLED INDEPENDENT VISA (SUBCLASS 189)
• SKILLED NOMINATED VISA (SUBCLASS 190)
• GRADUATE VISA (SUBCLASS 485)
• VISITOR VISA (SUBCLASS 600)
• TEMPORARY SKILL SHORTAGE VISA (SUBCLASS 482)
• PARTNER OR SPOUSE VISA Subclass 820/801/309/100
• STUDENT VISA (SUBCLASS 500)
• TRAINING VISA – CLASS GF (SUBCLASS 407)
• SKILLED WORK REGIONAL VISA (SUBCLASS 491)
• STUDENT GUARDIAN VISA (SUBCLASS 590)
• SKILLED RECOGNIZED GRADUATE VISA (SUBCLASS 476)
• PROSPECTIVE MARRIAGE VISA (SUBCLASS 300)
• SKILLED EMPLOYER SPONSORED REGIONAL (SUBCLASS 494)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Subclass 600

The cost of a 12-month Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Tourist Stream (Apply from Australia) is $475AUD. As a rule, paperwork is processed in under 26 days.

This multi-entry, long-validity coupon is a great way to save money. The duration of a visitor's visa might be up to six years. Each visit to Australia by a visa holder is limited to a maximum of three months.

If your subclass 600 visa is due to expire, you should apply for an Australian Visitor Visa Extension. Depending on your situation, it can grant you an additional three, six, or twelve months of stay. Only visitors who seek to extend their stay in Australia beyond the original visa's expiration date will be granted this extension.

You can stay in Australia for up to 12 months as a tourist, cruise ship passenger, or medical treatment visa category 600. However, employment is not permitted.

Tourist (Visitor) Visa - Subclass 600

An Australian tourist visa, also known as the Visitor visa (subclass 600), allows individuals to visit Australia for tourism or recreational purposes for up to three, six, or twelve months. Whether you're planning to visit family and friends, explore Australia's natural wonders, or experience its rich cultural heritage, this visa is your gateway to an unforgettable journey. If your immediate family member is living in Australia as an Australian Resident or Australia citizen then you may be eligible for Visitor visa Subclass 600 Family Stream.

Information for Tourist Visa Subclass 600

You can travel to Australia to visit your immediate family member, or to have a holiday or for a business visit purpose. You can stay in Australia for 3 months, 6 months or 12 months.For Stay more than 12 months, you must have a valid reason. Visa Application Charge (VAC) is varied and range from $190 to $475. For Onshore applicants the visa applicantion charges are $475 and for Offshore applicants the charges are $190. Specific Country Passport Holders might be eligible for eVisitor Visa subclass 651. To check your eligibility, feel free to call our friendly team at (03) 7014 6424 Visa application fee for the Electronical Travel Authority (ETA Visa Subclass 601) is Nil. You must be holding a passport of a specific countries. To check your eligibility, feel free to call our friendly team at (03) 7014 6424

Tourist Visa Streams

Guide to obtaining an Australian Tourist Visa. Tourist visa comes with five different streams:

Requirements and Applicanton Process for Tourist Visa Subclass 600

Before you embark on your adventure, it's crucial to understand the requirements and process for obtaining an Australian tourist visa. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully apply for your visa and make your Australian travel dreams a reality.You may get this visa if you are travelling to Australia for the following reasons:

Visiting a family member Business visitor activities Travelling to spend a vocation and explore Australia

If you are currently in Australia and holding a substantive visa, you can apply for the Tourist visa only if you are holding a valid visa and the condition 8503 is not imposed. Unless the department has waived the condition 8503 on the compelling and compassionate ground. The applicants in Australian can lodge the tourist visa only in Tourist Stream and the base application charges are $475. The applicant may make an oral application for the visa only if the applicant is in Australia and holds a subclass 600 (visitor visa ) or a subclass 676 (Tourist) visa.

Requirements for an Australian Tourist visa subclass 600

You must have a valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of your intended arrival in Australia. You must meet health and character requirements. This may involving undergoing a medical examination or providing police clearaance certificates, depending on your circumstances. Have sufficient funds to support your travel and stay in Australia A genuine intention to travel Australia for tourism, family visit or business activity purpose. This includes demonstrating ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property ownership. You may be required to hold a health insurance cover for the duration of your stay in Australia If you are visiting a family member, you sponsor may be required to pay a security bond under the family stream

Visitor visa for the Parent of Australian Permanant Residents or Australian Citizens

If you are an Australian permanant resident or citizen, you may consider applying a visitor visa for your parents. Parent (Migrant) visa required meeting the balance testing requirement and has a long waiting time of up to 29 years. Please contact us for more details.

I am in Australia and my tourist visa is about to expire ?

If you are in Australia and holding a temporary visa and your visa is about to expire. You should apply for a new visa before your current visa expires to maintain your legal stay in the country.

If you are already in Australia, you can consider the following option:

You may apply for another tourist visa.

You can also consider applying for the work visa if you have the right skills, qualification and satisfactory English score unless exempted. You can consider applying for the student visa if you make all the ticks for the student visa criterion and you are a genuine temporary entrant and a genuine student. If you are applying for the new visa, you may be granted with the Bridging Visa to maintain you stay lawful in the country until the decision is made on your application. If your visa has already expired, then you should be looking to lodge a Bridging E Visa immediately to maintain your lawful stay in Australia. This visa will allow you to make all the necessary arrangement and let you depart Australia safely.

Application Process for an Australian Tourist Visa – Document Checklist

Online Application: Start by lodging an online application through the Department of Home Affairs departmental portal or through a registered migration agent. Complete form 956 if you have appointed a Registered Migration Agent to communicate with the department on your behalf. Application Visa fee: Pay the relevant visa application fee, which varies depending on your location and other factors. Documentation: Prepare and submit supporting documents, including your passport, recent photographs, proof of finances, travel itinerary, and any additional documents requested by the immigration authorities. Letter of invitation if you are visiting a friend or a family member Travel Plan if you are vising under tourist stream Biometric Information: If required, you may need to provide biometric information (such as fingerprints and photographs) at a visa application center. To establish your sincere intent to return home, include documents like a letter from your employer confirming your job continuation post-travel, proof of school or college enrollment, evidence of supporting or residing with family, documentation of residential status and return facilities in your country, and proof of significant assets owned there.

What you can do upon Grant of Australian Tourist Visa Subclass 600

Upon grant of Tourist Visa 600, you can travel to Australia for vocation, to visit a family member or a close friend. Tourist Visa comes with different travel facilities:

You might be able to enter Australia once and then will need to apply for a new tourist visa if you want to return to Australia again. That means your tourist visa is granted for single entry. You might have Multiple-entry travel facilities and can enter Australia as many times as you want and remain in Australia for the specific time mentioned on your tourist Visa Grant Letter.

Applicant can check the visa expiry date and the conditions imposed on their visa or through VEVO.

Visa Conditions on Australian Tourist Visa:

Tourist visa may come with various visa condition. It is important to check the visa grant letter and thoroughly read the imposed visa conditions. If the visa is a subclass 600 visa in the sponsored Family stream, conditions 8101, 8201, 8503 and 8531 must be imposed. If the visa is a subclass 600 visa in the Business Visitor stream, conditions 8115 and 8201 must be imposed and 8503 may be imposed. If the visa is a subclass 600 visa in the Approved Destination Status stream, conditions 8101, 8207, 8503 and 8530 must be imposed. If the visa is a subclass 600 visa in the Frequesnt Traveller stream, conditions 8115, 8201, 8503, 8516, 8527, 8531, 8572, 8573 and 8609 must be imposed.

Condition 8503 (Applicant must depart Australia before the Visa expires)

While you are in Australia, you will be granted another substantive visa unless condition 8503 is waived or you have departed Australia.

To increase your chances of a successful visa application, consider the following tips:

✅ Apply Early: Submit your visa application well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing. ✅ Provide Accurate Information: Ensure all information provided in your application is accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. ✅ Be Transparent: Disclose any relevant information truthfully, including previous visa refusals or immigration violations. ✅ Seek Professional Advice: If you're unsure about any aspect of the visa application process, consider seeking assistance from a registered migration agent. or immigration lawyer. ✅ Keep Copies: Maintain copies of all your application documents, correspondence, and visa grant letter for your records. If you need help lodging your tourist visa application, you can book an appointment with our experienced registered migration agent who will guide you how this system work.

This page was last modified on: 03/01/2024 22:32:11

Book Consultation With Registered Migration Agent

How and When to Get a Visa to Visit Australia

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

US citizens can travel to many countries visa-free, but Australia isn't one of them. If you're thinking about traveling to Australia, you'll need to plan ahead and obtain valid travel documentation. Here's what you need to know before traveling to Australia as a US citizen with a US passport.

What Visa Do I Need?

The Australian government makes it easy to determine the visa you need with its Visa Finder website . This website asks three questions, the first of which is about the purpose of your trip (think: vacation, visiting relations, attending an event, doing business and seeking medical treatment, among others):

The next question asks the country of your passport:

And the final question asks how long you'd like to stay in Australia — either less than or more than three months.

Most travelers from the US will likely be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) — also called an ETA — as I was for my most recent month-long trip.

This is because an ETA is available to US citizens visiting Australia for three months for reasons that fit into the following categories:

• Holiday or vacation
• Visit to see friends or family
• Select business activities such as general business or employment inquiries; investigate, negotiate, sign or review a business contract; or attend a conference, trade fair or seminar

Since most US citizens traveling to Australia will be traveling for one of these reasons (and, as a result, are eligible to apply for an ETA) I'll focus on ETAs available to US citizens with a US passport.

What Are the Requirements?

To apply for an ETA, you must:

• Have a valid passport from an eligible country (including the US).
• Apply while outside Australia.
• Wish to stay no longer than three months at a time (you must not study for more than three months, for example).
• Be free from tuberculosis.
• Not have any criminal convictions for which you have been sentenced for a total combined period of 12 months or more, whether or not you served the sentence(s).
• Have paid back any debt — of either yourself or your family — or arranged to pay back any debt to the Australian government.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply Online?

The ETA is free, but there is an online application service charge of 20 Australian dollars (about $14) per applicant. As US passport holders -- along with seven other nationalities -- must apply online, there's no escaping the online application service charge. The fees for my recent ETA applications coded as "Bills and Utilities" on my Chase Sapphire Reserve statement, so don't expect the fee to code as "Travel."

How Long Does It Take?

The Australian government says "processing time for this visa is not available" and that the visa may take longer to process if:

• You don't fill it out correctly
• It takes the Australian government additional time to verify your information

Most ETA applications are approved immediately, and those that need additional processing are usually handled within 24 hours. This being said, the Australian government recommends travelers get an approved ETA before booking any nonrefundable travel. Once an ETA is granted, it is valid for one year and allows multiple entries up to three months each.

How Do I Apply?

The online ETA application takes about five minutes to complete. To start an application, click "Apply for an ETA."

Step 1 : Select whether you need a Tourist ETA or a Business Visitor ETA, and certify that you are currently located outside Australia.

Step 2 : Enter your personal details, whether you have an alias, answer a question about your criminal record and enter your passport information.

Step 3 : Enter your address, phone number and email. Select whether you wish to receive communications by SMS and declare whether you hold any passports issued by other countries.

Step 4 : Confirm your information.

Step 5 : Pay the online service charge of 20 Australian dollars (about $14) using a credit card.

How Do I Check My Status?

Once you have submitted an online ETA application, you'll receive a response. The response may:

• Notify you that your ETA has been granted.
• Advise you that your application has been referred for further assessment. You can then check the status of your application after 12 hours by logging back into the ETA system and selecting the option "Check an ETA."
• Advise you to contact the nearest Australian visa office to make a new application.

My response came immediately in an email titled, "ETA Application for Australia [CLIENT-IN-CONFIDENCE] (PROD)" that confirmed my application had "been successful," my payment had been received, that I was now the proud holder of a "valid ETA for Australia" and that my ETA had been linked to my passport, so no additional documents would be required during the travel process.

What Do I Need to Print Before Travel?

Nothing. When your ETA is linked to your passport, it becomes available to both airline representatives as well as Australian immigration authorities. So, there's no need to print your confirmation once your ETA has been granted.

Other Questions

If you have other questions about ETAs, or other types of Australian visas, take a look at the Australian government's Visa Finder website . Questions such as how to combine multiple visa types if the purpose of your trip changes and what to do if you get a new passport are covered on the website.

Traveling to Australia soon? Here are some TPG articles that might be helpful:

• The Best Ways to Use Points and Miles to Fly from the US to Australia
• TPG Readers Reveal Their Favorite Points Hotels in Australia
• TPG Readers' Best Tips for Flying Around Australia
• 8 Australian Islands You Probably Haven't Heard of But Need to Visit

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A Complete Guide To Obtaining A Visa To Travel To Australia

• Last updated May 04, 2024
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category Travel

Are you dreaming of exploring the beautiful landscapes of Australia? Do you want to experience the unique culture and vibrant cities down under? If so, you'll need to navigate the sometimes complex process of obtaining a visa to travel to Australia. But fear not! In this complete guide, we will walk you through all the steps and requirements necessary to secure your visa and make your Australian adventure a reality. From understanding the different visa types to providing tips on submitting a successful application, this guide has got you covered. So grab your passport and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the land of koalas and kangaroos.

What You'll Learn

Types of visas available for travel to australia, step-by-step guide to applying for an australian visa, required documents and eligibility criteria for an australian visa, tips and advice for a successful visa application to travel to australia.

Australia is a popular travel destination for people from all over the world. Whether you are planning a short vacation or a long-term stay, it is important to know the different types of visas available to enter the country. The Australian government has specific visa categories designed to cater to various purposes of travel. Here are the main types of visas available for travel to Australia:

Tourist Visa:

The tourist visa, also known as the Visitor Visa (subclass 600), is the most common type of visa for those who want to visit Australia for a holiday, sightseeing, or to visit family and friends. It allows you to stay in Australia for up to three, six, or twelve months, depending on the visa you apply for. The application process for the tourist visa is usually straightforward and can be done online.

Working Holiday Visa:

If you are between 18 and 30 years old, you may be eligible for a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462). This visa allows you to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. You can engage in short-term employment to supplement your travel expenses. However, there may be restrictions on the type and duration of work you can undertake. You can apply for this visa online, and it is essential to have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

Student Visa:

If you plan to study in Australia for more than three months, you will need to obtain a Student Visa (subclass 500). This visa allows you to study at an Australian educational institution and work for a limited number of hours per week. The application process for a student visa typically involves providing proof of enrollment in a registered course, sufficient funds to cover your living expenses, and proof of health insurance coverage.

Business Visa:

If you are planning to visit Australia for business purposes, you may require a Business Visa (subclass 600 or 188). This visa allows you to attend meetings, conferences, or explore business opportunities in Australia. The specific visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your business activities. You may need to provide a letter of invitation from an Australian business, proof of your business background, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay.

Partner Visa:

If you are in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible for a Partner Visa. This visa is for individuals who intend to marry or are already married, in a de facto relationship, or engaged to an eligible partner. The process for obtaining a Partner Visa is complex and involves providing evidence of your relationship, financial commitments, and health and character requirements.

Skilled Migration Visa:

If you possess specific skills and qualifications that are in demand in Australia, you may be eligible for a Skilled Migration Visa. The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) are two popular visas that allow skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. The application process for skilled migration visas involves a points-based assessment, which considers factors such as age, English language ability, work experience, and qualifications.

Applying for a visa to travel to Australia can be a straightforward process if you understand the different types of visas available and the requirements for each. It is essential to carefully review the visa options specific to your circumstances before applying. You can find detailed information about each visa category on the official Australian government immigration website. Remember to allow sufficient time for the visa application process and ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria to increase your chances of obtaining a visa successfully.

Can I Travel Overseas on My F-1 Visa? Your Questions Answered

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Are you dreaming of taking a trip to the beautiful country of Australia? Before you pack your bags, you'll need to obtain a visa to enter the country. Applying for an Australian visa may seem like a daunting task, but with this step-by-step guide, you'll be navigating the process with ease.

Step 1: Determine the type of visa you need

Australia offers various types of visas, including visitor visas, student visas, and work visas. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your stay. Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to explore the different visa options and choose the one that best fits your travel plans.

Step 2: Gather the required documents

Each visa category has specific requirements for supporting documents. Generally, you will need to provide your passport, a completed visa application form, recent passport-sized photographs, proof of health insurance, evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and any additional documents relevant to your specific visa category. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Australia.

Step 3: Complete the online application

The majority of Australian visa applications can be completed online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Create an ImmiAccount and follow the instructions to fill out the application form accurately. Be sure to double-check all the information you provide to avoid any errors or delays in processing.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Once you've completed the application form, you will need to pay the visa application fee. The fee amount will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. You can make the payment online using a credit or debit card. Keep in mind that the fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected.

Step 5: Submit your application

After paying the application fee, review your application one final time to ensure all the information is correct. Then, submit your application through your ImmiAccount. It's recommended to keep a copy of your application and any supporting documents for your records.

Step 6: Await the decision

The processing time for Australian visa applications can vary depending on factors such as the type of visa and the volume of applications being processed. You can check the progress of your application in your ImmiAccount. If additional information is required, the Department of Home Affairs will contact you.

Step 7: Receive your visa grant

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa grant notification via email. Take note of the visa grant number and the conditions of your visa. It's essential to understand any limitations or restrictions associated with your visa.

Step 8: Prepare for your trip

With your Australian visa in hand, it's time to plan the rest of your trip. Book your flights, accommodation, and any necessary travel arrangements. Don't forget to arrange travel insurance to protect yourself during your time in Australia.

Remember, it's important to apply for an Australian visa well in advance of your intended travel dates to allow ample time for processing. With this step-by-step guide, you now have the knowledge and confidence to navigate the application process smoothly. Start planning your Australian adventure today!

Exploring the Possibilities: Can F1 Visa Holders Travel to Canada?

To travel to Australia, you will likely need to obtain a visa unless you are an Australian citizen or hold a valid passport from a visa-exempt country. There are various types of visas available, depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. In this article, we will discuss the required documents and eligibility criteria for an Australian visa.

Determine the type of visa you need:

• Visitor Visa: If you intend to visit Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or for business purposes, you will need to apply for a Visitor Visa.
• Work Visa: If you wish to work and live in Australia temporarily, you will need to apply for a Work Visa.
• Student Visa: If you plan to study in Australia, you will need to apply for a Student Visa.
• Partner Visa: If you are in a committed relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for a Partner Visa.

Check the eligibility criteria:

• Each visa type has specific eligibility requirements. For example, the Visitor Visa requires you to have a genuine intention to visit Australia, sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, and the ability to meet health and character requirements.
• The Work Visa may require sponsorship from an Australian employer, evidence of your skills and qualifications, and a nomination from an approved sponsor.
• The Student Visa requires you to have a confirmed offer of enrollment from an Australian educational institution and sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.

Gather the required documents:

• Passport: You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
• Application Form: Complete the appropriate visa application form online or through a paper application.
• Photo: Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications mentioned in the application guidelines.
• Proof of Financial Capacity: Submit documents such as bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship details to demonstrate your ability to cover your expenses.
• Purpose of Visit: Provide documents such as flight itineraries, hotel reservations, invitation letters, or tour itineraries to support your intended purpose of visit.
• Medical and Character Certificates: Depending on the visa type, you may need to undergo a medical examination and provide character references or police clearance certificates.

Apply for the visa:

• Submit your visa application online or through a visa application center. Pay the required application fee.
• Provide all the necessary supporting documents along with your application.
• Keep a copy of the application and any receipts or documents provided.
• Wait for the decision on your application. Processing times can vary depending on the visa type and individual circumstances.

Additional Information:

• It is important to ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete. Any misinformation or false documentation can result in your visa application being refused.
• If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the Department of Home Affairs or seek help from a registered migration agent.

Remember that each visa application is assessed individually, and meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee the approval of your visa. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel to allow sufficient time for processing. By following these steps and providing the required documents, you will have a better chance of obtaining a visa to travel to Australia.

Exploring International Options: Traveling to Canada with a US L1 Visa

Are you planning a trip to Australia? If so, you will likely need a visa to enter the country. Applying for a visa can sometimes be a complicated process, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can increase your chances of a successful application. Here are some tips and advice to help you navigate the visa application process for Australia:

• Determine the type of visa you need: Australia offers a variety of visa types, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and work visas. Each visa has different requirements and eligibility criteria, so it's essential to determine the most suitable visa for your purpose of travel. Visit the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs website to explore the available visa options.
• Understand the eligibility requirements: Before applying for a visa, familiarize yourself with the eligibility requirements specific to the visa type you are applying for. These requirements may include age restrictions, health and character assessments, proof of financial stability, and evidence of ties to your home country. Make sure you meet all the criteria before submitting your application.
• Gather the necessary documents: Visa applications require supporting documents to prove your identity, purpose of travel, and eligibility. The required documents may include your passport, recent passport-sized photos, a completed application form, proof of travel insurance, a detailed itinerary, evidence of funds to support your stay, and any relevant educational or employment documents. Check the specific document checklist provided for your visa subclass, and ensure that you gather and organize all the required documents before submitting your application.
• Apply online: The Department of Home Affairs strongly encourages applicants to apply for visas online. Applying online is faster, more convenient, and allows you to track the progress of your application. Create an ImmiAccount on the Department's website, fill out the online application form, and upload all the required documents. Be careful to provide accurate and truthful information to avoid delays or potential visa refusals.
• Pay the visa application fee: Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, there may be an application fee involved. The fee varies depending on the visa subclass and processing time. Ensure that you pay the correct fee, preferably using a secure online payment method accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Be patient and plan ahead: Visa processing times can vary significantly depending on the time of year and the volume of applications. It is important to plan your trip well in advance to allow for sufficient processing time. Check the estimated processing times for the visa subclass you are applying for on the Department's website, and plan your travel accordingly.
• Seek professional advice if needed: If you find the visa application process overwhelming or need assistance, consider seeking professional advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer. They can provide expert guidance, review your application, and help increase the chances of a successful outcome.
• Be honest and accurate: When completing your visa application, be honest and accurate in providing all the required information. Any discrepancies or false information may lead to your visa application being refused or canceled. If you are unsure about any aspect of the application, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a professional advisor for clarification.

Applying for a visa to travel to Australia may seem like a complex task, but following these tips and advice can make the process smoother and increase your chances of a successful application. Remember to start early, gather all the necessary documents, and provide accurate information. By doing so, you'll be one step closer to embarking on an exciting journey Down Under!

How Can Travel Agencies Assist with Visa Applications?

Frequently asked questions.

To apply for an Australian visa, you need to fill out an online application form on the official Australian government website. Provide all the necessary information and supporting documents, pay the visa fee, and submit your application.

The type of visa you need to travel to Australia depends on the purpose of your visit. If you are visiting for tourism or vacation, you can apply for a visitor visa (subclass 600). If you are going for work or study purposes, you will need to apply for the relevant work or student visa. You can check the official Australian government website or consult with a travel agent to determine the appropriate visa for your trip.

The processing time for an Australian visa varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. It is advisable to apply for your visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any unexpected delays in processing. You can check the estimated processing times on the official Australian government website.

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Australia student visa rule: Rs 16 lakh minimum bank balance now mandatory

The savings requirement ensures that students have enough money to cover their travel, course fees, and living costs during their stay.

Tightening of student visa rules by Australia has sparked concerns among Indian nationals, particularly affecting students and those seeking visa renewals. Photo: Shutterstock

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Key takeaways — Students must show proof of savings of at least A$29710 (Rs 16,35,806) to get their visa. Click here to follow our WhatsApp channel — This is the second increase in about seven months. In October, the minimum savings amount was raised from A$21,041 (Rs 11,58,498) to A$24,505 (Rs 13,49,223).

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First Published: May 08 2024 | 4:34 PM IST

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‘It’s very unfair’: Australia’s visa crackdown is disrupting international students and hitting university finances

Student applications and net arrivals fall as refusal rates reach a record high. The situation is set to worsen if visa fees are hiked in the upcoming budget

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It took Rajesh more than 12 months to receive his visa to study in Australia.

But Rajesh – not his real name – considers himself lucky. Two of his friends who also come from India have recently had their PhD offers expire after waiting for visas for more than 10 months.

“It’s frustrating … especially considering PhD students are crucially important,” says Rajesh, who comes from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, considered a red flag by universities trying to weed out non-genuine applicants. “They are fully funded and highly skilled individuals who contribute significantly to our academic community.”

As part of a bid to halve net migration by 2025 , the Australian government is cracking down on non-genuine students who use student visas as a back door for work and permanent residency. The federal government has announced a series of reforms, including tougher visa conditions, stronger English-language tests and rules for education agents who bring overseas students to Australia.

The latest home affairs data shows the proportion of offshore student visa applications being refused has reached a record high, with as many as one in five students having their visas rejected in the year to March. Visas granted to Indian students fell by 48% between December 2022 and December 2023, with Nepalese visas granted falling 53% and Pakistani visas falling 55% over the same period.

The department cites an increase in incomplete applications and fraudulent documentation, contributing to both higher visa refusal rates and longer processing times. The tougher visa conditions have prompted institutions to change their policies, with some even imposing blanket bans on Indian students.

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The home affairs minister, Clare O’Neil, says the federal government recognises “change is hard” but migration is “too high” and must be brought back to “sustainable levels”.

“We are working with the sector to help providers adapt, but we must restore integrity to the system to protect the sector’s international reputation,” she says.

But some say the approach is having a financial impact on institutions and disrupting the plans of genuine students who may be turned off studying in Australia altogether.

What’s going on?

The founder and president of the Pakistani Students Association of Australia, Zeeshan Malik, says many offshore students are experiencing visa refusals , while others are scared to travel back home lest their visas be cancelled on return to Australia.

While there have not been any reported cases of students having their visas cancelled on return, Malik says students feel they are being discriminated against based upon their country of origin.

“It’s very unfair,” he says. “Lots of students are struggling with mental health and other issues because of these confusing policies.”

A University of Sydney spokesperson says a “significant number” of students have been forced to defer or withdraw their applications due to visa processing delays, while others have been suspended to fulfil additional requirements.

“This has been very disruptive to highly capable young people from around the world who had paid their visa application fee and chosen to come to Australia for their studies,” the spokesperson says.

“We have moved our last date to apply for semester 2 to try to limit any such impact for future students.”

The University of Melbourne has also “faced challenges” this semester, with a number of students yet to receive their visas for the 2024 intake. A spokesperson says it has provided an extension to allow enrolled international students to start later.

Central Queensland University has gone even further, writing to education agents confirming it will no longer offer English language programs to students from India or Nepal, or enrolments to applicants over 25 or married, except for research placements.

“With many universities witnessing an increase in student visa refusals, it has been necessary for CQUniversity to proactively reconsider admissions requirements on a regular basis,” a spokesperson says.

“We have a moral obligation to ensure that prospective students have the best opportunity to successfully obtain a student visa.

“Such an outcome is not good for the student, the university, or the reputation of Australia as a global study destination.”

Why universities are imposing blanket bans

Phil Honeywood, the chief executive of the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA), says stigmatising entire nations is a “blunt instrument” that ignores the benefits of diversity.

“We’re supposed to be a welcoming, safe nation,” he says. “It’s a shame sometimes blunt policy instruments go against other government policies.”

Honeywood says universities are imposing restrictive measures on international students in the hope it will improve their risk ratings, which are used by the federal government to reduce student numbers.

The system assesses universities based upon how likely they are to recruit non-genuine students who arrive in Australia primarily to work, not study. Visas are given a risk rating between 1 and 3, and only low-risk universities on level 1 have visa applications processed quickly.

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Earlier this month, the list was updated, with nine universities downgraded to a level 2 and two downgraded to a level 3.

According to Honeywood, less than 10% of international student visas are waiting to be approved at low-risk universities while universities at level 2 and 3 are facing extensive delays.

During a webinar hosted by the IEAA at the beginning of the university year, Charles Sturt University’s pro-chancellor, international, Mike Ferguson, said 40% of international students enrolled in his university – which is a level 2 – were still waiting on visa decisions in the first week of the semester.

“Speaking to my colleagues at other universities, I know many others are in similar situations,” he says.

“You’re looking at refusal rates for offshore students in most markets in the region of 50%.”

Level 3 institution Federation University has faced significant budget pressure since the migration crackdown. It recently announced plans to cut 200 ongoing positions – the equivalent of just over one in 10 staff members.

A spokesperson for the university said the announcement came in response to a 49% decline in international student numbers between 2019 and 2023, which had been exacerbated by “unexpected but necessary changes to international student visa arrangements”.

Similarly, the University of Tasmania – also at level 3 – announced last month it would sell two of its Hobart hotels intended to house international students in anticipation of declining numbers.

Private institutions have also been hit hard. According to English Australia, the national peak body for more than 100 English language colleges for international students, visa grants plummeted by 68% in December 2023 compared with the previous year.

What the future holds

The share of international students is likely to decrease further with an anticipated hike in student visa fees in the May budget, making Australia “well and truly” the most expensive country to apply for a non-refundable visa, according to Honeywood.

Honeywood says international students are facing a “blame game” as the only migration market to Australia that can feasibly be reduced.

The former immigration department deputy secretary Abul Rizvi agrees. He says while higher visa fees are likely, it will be “poor long-term policy”.

“It will mostly deter high-performing students who have options of going elsewhere,” he says. “Policy must be designed to encourage and reward providers to compete for the best students not just those who can apparently afford to pay.”

Rizvi says the cautious approach being taken by providers, coupled with the ramping up of refusal rates for offshore student applications, led to a big fall in student visa applications in February and a fall in net student arrivals in March.

“That trend will likely continue over the next few months,” he says. “But while the flow of students is slowing, the stock is still rising and is now well over a record 700,000,” he says, referring to the number of international students in Australia.

“The industry is built on continuous growth. Under the risk rating system, lower tier providers are particularly vulnerable. They are the ones complaining the most.”

To Rajesh, the decline in quality lies squarely with universities and the government.

“Students are not responsible for that,” he says. “Blaming everything on students and their respective countries is not solving the problem.”

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India to Australia: Visa and Entry Requirements FAQs

Learn about visa requirements for entry to Australia for tourism purposes with this list of frequently asked questions. 

Please note this page is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. For information on visas to enter Australia, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information from Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .*

Ready to plan your trip? We're ready to welcome you! Here are some helpful tips for getting your visa sorted: 

• Be sure to secure the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia. Use the Visa Finder to explore your options.
• Ensure all details are correct and provide all required documents when you apply. An incomplete or incorrect application can delay your visa.
• Submitting multiple applications at the same time can slow the process. For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children. 
• Questions? The Australian Government's Global Service Centre can help.

Australian Visa Information

Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of Australian visa types, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, via the ETA app or on the  Department of Home Affairs website.

There are different Australian visa types available for travellers to Australia. Knowing which Australian visa to apply for depends on the length of your stay, your passport and the purpose of your visit. You’ll also need to meet certain financial and medical requirements, be outside of Australia when applying and maintain health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) This visa allows you to visit Australia as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay for three months each visit. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of countries and regions, who live outside Australia. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is  here .

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app. Agents can assist you in the application process, but you must be physically present as a live facial image is required.

eVisitor  (subclass 651) This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of European countries and it cannot be extended.

Visitor visa  (subclass 600) The Visitor visa allows you to visit Australia, either for tourism or business purposes. It is open to all nationalities. Generally, a period of stay of up to three months is granted, but up to 12 months may be granted in certain circumstances. Applicants will have to pay a fee to submit their application.

The application process may differ depending on which visa you need.

You can only apply for the  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located  here .

For other visas, you can apply online by creating an ImmiAccount and completing the application process. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of your travel date to allow enough time for processing. You may be asked to provide further supporting information. You will be notified in writing if your tourist visa is approved and it will be digitally linked to your passport. For more information on different visa types, and Australian visa requirements including how to apply for an Australian visa, visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website.

If you are already in Australia and hold a valid Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) you can extend your stay by applying for another visa, such as a Visitor visa (subclass 600). An eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot be extended.

See the Department of Home Affairs website for details.

Working Holiday Visas

Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions.

Find out more about working holiday visas here .

*Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check this information is still current by visiting the Australian Department of Home Affairs .

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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