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• Australian visa information
• Working holiday visas

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Australian 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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Thursday, 14 Mar 2024

• Documentation

Tourist Visa Extension Australia: How to Extend Your Visitor Visa

Is your 3-month tourist visa period about to end? There’s still a way you can legally extend your visit as a genuine tourist—by simply reapplying for a new Tourist visa onshore (a.k.a Tourist visa extension)!

Technically speaking, getting a Tourist visa ‘extension’ is synonymous with applying for an onshore Tourist visa. Once you’re granted this new Tourist visa, you won’t have to leave Australia before the usual 3-month visit period ends.

Keep reading to learn about the visa’s eligibility requirements, supporting documents, conditions and FAQs

When is a Tourist visa Australia extension possible?

Typically, tourist visas are granted for 3-month stays at a time. You’ll have to exit Australia before each period ends and then re-enter if you intend to return.

If you wish or need to stay in Australia longer without leaving the country, you can apply for an onshore tourist visa. This extends your stay for up to 12 months, with the department deciding the exact length of the extension.

To be eligible for this tourist visa extension, make sure:

• Your current tourist visa hasn’t expired
• There’s no Condition 8503 – no further stay condition attached to your current visa
• Your total stay in Australia won’t exceed 12 consecutive months
• You have enough money to fund your extended stay
• You have compelling reasons for staying longer, which may include:
• Exploring the different states of Australia for tourism purposes
• Participating in local festivals or cultural events
• Supporting sick or dying friend or family member

You can’t extend this visa further beyond the maximum 12 months allowed.

If you find yourself in special circumstances or are simply uncertain, seek professional advice from a trusted Australian migration agency . They’ll give you insights and clarify expectations regarding your situation.

How to Apply for Extension of Tourist Visa in Australia

Applying for an extended tourist visa is the same as applying for a tourist stream visitor visa the first time:

• Login to your ImmiAccount .

You can read our ImmiAccount Guide to help you create and log in to your account. 

• Click on ‘New Application’ and click on Visitor Visa 600.

• Fill in the correct responses under ‘Application Context’. 
• Tick ‘No’ for the question, Is the applicant currently outside Australia? A prompt will appear, confirming that you’re applying for an onshore tourist visa.

• Provide details of the request for an extension or further stay.

• Accurately provide information for all required fields. This will be about 19 pages, including:
• Applicant bio
• Passport details
• Contact information
• Details of your travel in Australia
• Employment details
• Financial status
• Health and character declaration
• Visa history
• Review the summary of information. Make sure to correct any mistakes and update the information.
• Attach all requirements and supporting documentation.
• Pay the visa application fee.

Tourist Visa Extension Requirements

Below is a checklist of documents you must submit together with your online application form:

• Passport with your photo, bio and issue and expiry dates
• Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)
• Evidence of previous travel, such as entry/exit stamped pages of your passport, photos, etc.
• Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements, payslips, etc.
• Proof of return to home country, such as assets, properties, investments, ongoing employment or studies
• Travel itinerary or tourism plans
• Invitation letter for tourist visa from family or friends (if applicable)

If the inviter is sponsoring your stay, attach documents such as:

• their visa status/citizenship
• financial status, such as employment details, bank statements, pay slips, etc.
• lease agreement, house bills, etc.
• Health certificate (if required)
• Police certificate (if required)
• Adequate health insurance

Tourist Visa Extension Australia Fee

As of writing, the cost of applying for an onshore Tourist visa is AUD 475.

Note that this can change depending on the Department of Home Affairs.

Also, this covers only the basic application charge. You must pay for other fees like health checks and police certificates separately. 

Tourist Visa Extension Processing Time

Typically, you can receive your new tourist visa within a few days. 

Based on data from the Department, 50% of applications are processed in 8 days, and 90% within 27 days.

To prevent unnecessary delays, make sure to complete your online application thoroughly and correctly, attach all supporting documents, and respond promptly if more information is requested.

When to Apply for Tourist Visa Extension

We recommend that you apply for the extension 3 to 4 weeks before your current Tourist visa expires.

What are the conditions attached to my Tourist visa?

A tourist visa typically comes with these conditions:

• Visa condition  8101 – you must not work in Australia
• Visa condition 8201 – you must not study in Australia for more than three months

In some cases, other discretionary visa conditions may also be attached, such as:

• Visa condition 8501 – you must maintain adequate health insurance
• Visa condition 8531 – you must leave Australia before your visa expires
• Visa condition 8558 – you must not remain in Australia for more than 12 months in any 18 month period
• Visa condition 8503 (no further stay) – you cannot apply for another substantive visa during your stay in Australia

We recommend you regularly do a quick VEVO check to review the conditions of your visa and stay lawfully in Australia.

Can I request a waiver of the no further stay condition?

Yes, you can request a waiver of visa condition 8503 No further stay . However, approval is at the discretion of the Department. Usually, they grant it in dire, unforeseen circumstances, such as:  

• Serious medical issues that prevent travel
• Family emergencies like severe illness or loss
• Unsafe conditions in your home country, such as natural disasters or civil unrest

To make a request, fill in the online No Further Stay waiver request form .

You may also submit by post using this paper application form . 

Attach the following to your application:

• Copy of your passport showing your bio and issue dates
• Proof supporting your reasons for further stay (e.g. medical reports)

You must submit this before your current visa expires.

Can I bring my parents to Australia on a Tourist visa?

Yes, you can do so by helping them apply for a separate Tourist visa.

If you’re looking to bring your parents to Australia on a long-term basis, you can explore Family visas like the 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa or 838 Age Dependent Relative visa.

If I can’t extend my Tourist visa, can I apply for other visas instead?

Yes, you can as long as your tourist visa does not have a condition that prevents further stay (visa condition 8503). Otherwise, you must first request for the further stay condition to be waived before applying for any substantive visa.

If you’re planning to pursue Australian studies, you can apply for Student visa . Or, if you’re interested in seeking employment, pursue Australian working visas instead.

Looking for help with your tourist visa extension?

If you’re unsure about your eligibility for a tourist visa extension, KBA Global’s friendly migration agents are here to help. 

We’re happy to shed light on your situation and assist you with the application process. We can also help you explore other visa options, should your plans change for your extended stay.

Schedule a free consultation so you can discuss your case with us further.

Disclaimer: The above information is a general guide and not professional immigration advice. Be aware that immigration laws and regulations can change swiftly, potentially rendering some or all of the information outdated. Thus, before using the information above, we recommend checking the current laws with assistance from a migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs website.

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How to extend your visitor visa 600 in Australia

Blog » How to extend your visitor visa 600 in Australia

This post is also available in: Español

Sometimes the 3 months that you are allowed to stay in Australia as a visitor is not enough for many reasons and the most obvious option is to extend your visitor visa.

Maybe you are visiting your family and you want to stay longer, maybe you fell in love with the country and you would like to explore much more, or maybe you are stuck due to the global COVID-19 pandemic that also is affecting Australia and you need to extend the visa to stay legally.

Whatever the reason is, the first thing you should do is make sure that your tourist visa doesn’t have a “no further stay” condition, because that will be the only limitation for you to apply for a new visa while in Australia. 

If it doesn’t you can go ahead and prepare everything to extend your visa.

Visitor Visa 600

If you hold a visitor visa 600 is because you went to Australia for tourist or business purposes, and on this visa depending on these conditions you may have the possibility to stay 3, 6 until 12 months in the country.

However, it is a requirement for you to leave the country every three months even if your visa has a longer duration than 3 months, this can be very expensive and inconvenient. 

This is why you may think about getting a visa extension or a different type of visa in order to stay longer depending on your needs. 

Make a decision on how long you want to stay in Australia

Keep in mind that the longest you could stay in Australia under a visitor visa is 12 months. For this reason you have to be clear about the total length of your stay to know which visa would be the best option for you. 

Also, when you already make one visa extension, it could be less likely to do this again, so the best thing you could do is to be clear about your objectives while in the country.

Check your visa expiry dates and conditions 

Check when your visa expires , because the ideal thing to do is to apply at least 3 weeks before the expiration date. Remember that the quicker the better, if you already made a decision what we recommend is to take action immediately, check all your visa options and prepare the documents you need for your application.

Explore all your visa options

If your visa doesn’t have a condition to prevent you from further stay, then you can apply on a new visa even when your current visa is still valid. If you do this, you will most likely be issued a bridging visa A so you can stay lawfully in Australia while your other visa is still processing. 

Remember that you can’t leave Australia on a bridging visa as it will cease the moment you leave the country, just wait patiently for your visa renewal. 

Also, be sure to meet all the requirements before applying to extend your visitor visa. If you apply for another visitor visa, most likely you will need the same documents that you used to apply for your first visitor visa in the first place.

If you apply for another type of visa be sure to check what are the requirements before applying. 

Choose the visa that suits you best

What are your new goals in Australia? Think carefully about this question to evaluate your visa options. 

Maybe you want to stay longer because you feel your time in Australia was not enough, but you do not have any other purpose than to do tourism. In this case you will need another visitor visa 600.

Maybe you need to stay longer but you don’t have money. In this case you need to consider that the visitor visa doesn’t allow you to work or apply to a job , so you may have to apply to another type of visa.

Maybe you want to study in the country, then you will need to apply to the school where you want to study first and then make a student visa application .

As you can see, it all depends on your specific situation and if you have any question or doubt you can visit de Australian government website to find all the detailed information about types of visa and visa application. 

Apply for your new visa

When you have all your documents ready you can go to the Department of Home Affairs website and apply directly. Also, they will give you 28 days to have a health check, which is also important to apply to a visa. 

Remember that a visa to get processed may take from 10 to 30 days so you need to be patient. Don’t worry if your visa expires in the meantime because you will be granted a Bridging visa to stay lawfully in the country.

What to do if your visa already expired?

If you overstayed in Australia it is very unlikely that you will be granted a Bridging visa or a visa extension because you have broken the law.

The Australian government expects all visitors to leave Australia before the expiration of their visa and if you do not comply with this requirement there is not much more that you can do.  

On the Covid-19 pandemic situation

As Australia closed their borders due to the covid-19 pandemic , they are allowing tourists with a “no further stay” condition on their visas to make a written request to have it waived. If this request gets approved, then you can apply to extend your visitor visa while they are still in Australia. 

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Extend a Visitor Visa in Australia

Three months in Australia is never enough. You can extend your Visitor visa while staying in Australia – so that you don’t have to leave.

This article explains:

• when you can extend your Visitor visa;
• documents required to extend your Visitor visa;
• how long you can extend your Visitor visa for;
• the minefield that visa extensions can be for pregnant women;
• how many times you can extend a Visitor visa; and
• key considerations when extending your Visitor visa in Australia.

Why extend a Visitor visa in Australia?

Most visitor visas to Australia last for three months. Even if you are lucky enough to get a multiple entry visa for a year – each stay is still only three months.

So, at the end of your three months you need to decide. Will you leave Australia or will you extend your Visitor visa.

Many visitors to Australia, especially couples, want to lodge a Partner visa while they are here. If you are not married then you need at least six months living together before you can lodge a de facto visa .

So if your Visitor visa only gives you three months, you might want to consider extending it so that you meet the de facto visa requirements .

If you have a multiple entry visa, leaving Australia and coming back can be expensive. Not to mention the time spent on the airplane is just wasted.

Instead of jumping on a plane you can extend your Visitor visa while you remain in Australia. This will save you time and money.

When to Extend your Visitor Visa

It is illegal to let your visa expire, so you always need to make sure you have plenty of time to make your new visa arrangements.

If your Visitor visa lasts for three months and you want to extend it. Start to make your extension with around 6 weeks left. This way you have plenty of time to do things.

When you lodge an application to extend your Visitor visa in Australia, you get a Bridging visa that lets you stay – while Immigration make their decision.

During the processing of your Visitor visa extension, you will be asked to undergo Health Checks. You are normally given 28 days to get the health check organised.

If you miss the 28-day deadline for the health check your application to extend your Visitor visa will be refused immediately.

Documents Required for a Visitor Visa Extension

The documents needed to extend your Visitor visa come in two categories: 1) documents you already submitted for your first Visitor visa; and 2) new documents.

Documents from your Original Visitor Visa Application

You will need access to all the original documents. This is because the first visa application would have been decided in your home country. Then your application to extend will be decided in Australia.

So they are decided by two different departments of Immigration. There is no way for you to ask them to use the old documents. You have to supply it all again.

New Documents to Extend your Visitor Visa

You may also be required to show new docuemnts including new bank statements, proof of your employment in your home country and evidence of the purpose of the extended stay you are requesting.

For example, if you are requesting to stay another four months to attend a wedding – you will need to show proof that this reason is real. So, a wedding invitation would be required at teh very least.

You will also need to organise health checks as already mentioned above.

Finally, you can be asked for more information about your stay in Australia. This is typically done in the form of a questionnaire that immigration sends.

The questionnaire asks what you have been doing in Australia, whether you have been working and what your plans are.

How Long the Extension Lasts

First, you cannot stay on a Visitor visa for more than 12 months. This is the most important consideration.

Then there are quite a few considerations as to how long your extension will last:

• how long you have already been in Australia;
• the purpose of your extension- are you really still a visitor; and
• your immigration history.

Start by considering how long you have already been in Australia. You will be limited overall by the 12-month maximum.

You should also consider previous visits to Australia. The Department has a policy of no more than a year in Australia, in an 18-month period.  This applies to the temporary visas like the visitor visa.

Next, the purpose of your stay is considered. If you are using the visitor visa to stay with your partner in Australia then an application to extend can be risky.

Immigration may think that you are using a Visitor visa to live in Australia with your partner, and this is reason to refuse your Visitor visa extension.

Finally, if immigration has refused your visa before, applications to extend can be risky. Again, it becomes more and more difficult to show your case is genuine after you receive a refusal.

Extend your Pregnant girlfriend’s Visitor Visa

• pregnant women cannot do the health check;
• the 12-month rule means that after giving birth she has no visa
• schedule three requirements mean that she will have to leave Australia to lodge a Partner visa .

Health Check

Health check for pregnant girlfriend after giving birth, schedule three, how many times can i extend.

You can keep applying to extend your Visitor visa to a maximum stay if 12 months.

The first application to extend is relatively inexpensive. The application fee is around $360 and most Agents, including OzVisa Group will process the application for you for around $400 – $500.

If it is cheaper than this – you should beware. Possibly the Agent has not go the required experience to process your extension – as you will find out as the process goes on.

The second time you go to extend a temporary visa, like a Visitor visa, you will get hit with an extra charge from Immigration. Currently its around $700 more. This is nothing more than a money grab by immigration.

The reasons put forward by the Department for the extra charge are that they want discourage people from reapplying in Australia. But this excuse holds no weight because they make the decisions and could simply refuse the application if this reason was real.

The Most Important Considerations

There is one point I want to emphasize – if your girlfriend is pregnant then you must hire a lawyer.

We have written a separate blog about having your baby in Australia . But this information does not substitute for a lawyer with specific experience in this area.  It is very complex.

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Visa requirements for visiting Australia

Dec 1, 2023 • 6 min read

Don't let a forgotten tourist visa ruin your Australian getaway © xavierarnau/Getty Images

Planning a trip to Australia ? Whether you’re heading Down Under for a short break or extended working holiday, you’ll likely need a visa. 

Here’s your complete guide to filling out your paperwork for a visit to Australia.

Do I need a visa for Australia?

Most visitors to Australia will need a visa, but the type of visa you apply for depends on your country of origin, how long you plan to stay in Australia and what you plan to do while you’re there. 

Most tourists must apply for either an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or a visitor visa before traveling. The exception is New Zealand passport holders, who are issued a Special Category visa upon arrival. 

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay. You’ll also need to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your stay. Depending on your visa category, you may be asked for proof of this upon arrival. 

What type of visa do I need to travel to Australia?

The Australian Department of Home Affairs’ (DoHA) visa finder can help you determine what visas you’re eligible for based on your citizenship, your travel purpose and your intended length of stay. 

Here are the three main tourist visa categories:

For visitors from visa-exempt countries: ETA (subclass 601)

If you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country – including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada or Singapore – you’re eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) . With an ETA you can visit Australia as many times as you like for tourism purposes within a one-year window, staying for up to three months per visit. 

Attached digitally to your passport number, an ETA allows for a simplified entry process into Australia. An application needs to be completed via the dedicated ETA app before you arrive and usually is processed within a day. However, it’s recommended that you apply for it a few days in advance to ensure you have the ETA in time for your departure. 

While ETAs are free, there is an application service charge of $20. 

If you’re already in Australia and you want to extend your stay, you will need to apply for a Visitor visa.

For visitors from European countries: eVisitor visa (subclass 651)

The eVisitor visa is free and available for passport holders from most European countries. It offers similar conditions to an ETA: Visitors can stay for up to three months for tourism purposes. It’s valid for 12 months, with multiple entries permitted.

You can apply for the eVisitor online. Processing time is usually within a day, but it’s recommended that you apply well in advance of your intended travel date in case of delays. This visa can’t be extended, so if you wish to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a Visitor visa.

If you hold a passport from a country that’s eligible for both an ETA and an eVisitor visa, you’ll find the two options are nearly identical. The main difference is how you apply for them: ETAs must be applied for through an app with a fee of $20. There is no charge for eVisitor visas, but you’ll need to register for an ImmiAccount and apply online through a web browser.

For all other tourists: Visitor visa (subclass 600)

If you’re not eligible for an ETA or an eVisa and plan to visit Australia for tourism-related purposes, you’ll need to apply for a Visitor visa from outside Australia. This visa may be granted for up to 12 months and may be single or multiple entry. Conditions are determined on a case-by-case basis. A visitor visa starts at $190, but there may be other associated costs including health examinations, police clearances or biometrics, depending on your passport.

Although most visitor visas are processed within a few weeks, it can take longer in peak periods, so it must be applied for well in advance of your trip. Standard processing times change regularly and can be monitored on the DoHA site. 

Once you apply, you can track your application through your ImmiAccount. You may be required to submit additional information, so check your application regularly to provide any further details to keep the process moving.

How do I extend my visa to Australia?

Enjoying your stay in Australia and don't want to leave? We don’t blame you. 

Depending on your visa, you may be able to apply for a new visa to stay in the country longer. Visitors who are already inside Australia and wish to stay longer as tourists may use the onshore Visitor visa (also subclass 600) to extend their stay. 

Make sure you apply for your new visa before your current visa expires. If you’ve submitted your application before your current visa expires, you’ll be granted a free bridging visa until your new one is processed. 

What if I want to work and travel around Australia?

Working holidays are a popular option for travelers who want to fund their adventures and immerse themselves in Australian life and culture. 

Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program is available for visitors between the ages of 18 and 30 (and up to 35 in some cases) from 40 participating countries and jurisdictions around the world. 

There are two classes of visas available under this program: t he Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) and the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) . Which one you apply for depends on the passport you hold. Both are valid for 12 months and cost $635, and both enable you to legally work while in Australia.

Many working holiday visa makers find that one year isn’t enough. Fortunately, you may be able to extend your working holiday visa for a second or even a third year. In order to do so, you’ll need to complete “specified work” in a “regional area” for a period of three months (for a second year) or six months (for a third year) first. 

This specified work is usually referred to as “farm work” in backpacker circles, but it’s a bit of a misnomer. It’s a common misconception that you need to head to the woop-woops (that Aussie for “middle of nowhere”) and pick fruit to complete your specified work. In fact, there are a range of approved industries the program , including tourism and hospitality, construction and bushfire recovery. Likewise, “regional areas” aren’t just found in remote rural areas; some major cities (including Darwin and Adelaide) are eligible post codes. So while you might find yourself harvesting bananas in a tiny town in tropical Queensland, you could just as easily find yourself serving tables at a luxury lodge in Darwin or working in a winery in the Barossa.

For more information on the working holiday visa program, you can also visit Tourism Australia’s dedicated portal. 

This article was first published March 2021 and updated December 2023

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How to Extend Tourist Visa in Australia

If you’re enjoying your time in Australia and want to stay a little longer, you might be wondering how to extend your tourist visa. Don’t worry, the process is quite straightforward. Here’s a simple guide to help you extend your tourist visa in Australia.

Table of Contents

1. Plan ahead 

It’s important to start the extension process before your current visa expires. Give yourself plenty of time to gather the necessary documents and complete the application.

2. Check eligibility

Not all tourist visas can be extended. Make sure your visa type is eligible for an extension. Typically, subclass 600 and subclass 651 visas can be extended.

3. Gather required documents 

Prepare the necessary documents for your visa extension application. These may include your passport, visa documents, proof of sufficient funds to support your extended stay, and evidence of health insurance coverage.

4. Complete the application

Submit your visa extension application online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Provide accurate and up-to-date information, and double-check for any errors before submitting.

5. Pay the fee 

There is usually a fee associated with extending your tourist visa. Make sure to pay the required fee as part of your application process. Payment methods such as credit cards are usually accepted.

6. Await a decision 

After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. This can take some time, so be patient. Avoid making any travel plans until you receive the decision.

7. Comply with visa conditions

While waiting for the decision, ensure you comply with the conditions of your current visa. Overstaying your visa can have serious consequences and may affect any future visa applications.

8. Stay informed 

Keep track of your visa extension application by checking your online application status. If there are any updates or requests for additional information, respond promptly to avoid delays.

9. Seek professional advice if needed 

If you’re unsure about any step in the process or encounter difficulties, seek assistance from a registered migration agent. At Migration Door Australia, we are dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive consultation and expert guidance on extending your tourist visa. Book a consultation now !

Remember, extending your tourist visa is subject to approval by the Department of Home Affairs. It’s important to follow the guidelines and provide accurate information in your application. By planning ahead and following the process, you increase your chances of being granted an extension to enjoy more of beautiful Australia.

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The eight essential steps to extending your visitor visa to Australia for 2023

Australia is a magnificent travel destination and the ideal place to spend quality time with your family. One may apply for a visiting visa if one desires to visit Australia for a short term. Many tourists can stay in Australia for a prolonged period with a visiting or working vacation visa. They search for ways to extend a visitor visa.

When someone visits a family member, whether it be a grandparent seeing their first grandchild, a girlfriend visiting her boyfriend, or parents visiting their children, it is one of the most frequent scenarios. These individuals often receive a three-month tourist visa. But it is insufficient.

Some visitors to Australia may leave the country every three months due to their 12-month tourist visa. It may be both expensive and inconvenient. An immigration expert will help you to know how to extend a visa to Australia.

Read Also:- Know About Costs And Funds Required For Visitor Visa 600

Meaning of Visitor Visa Australia Subclass 600

Visitors who intend to stay in Australia for a while can apply for a subclass 600 visiting visa. It enables travellers visiting Australia to reunite with loved ones and take a cruise. A transitory visa is a 600 visa. On a visit visa, you can stay for one year of residence in Australia. A visa subclass 600 doesn’t allow one to do business or receive medical treatment in Australia.

To apply for an Australian tourist visa, you must live elsewhere. Australia is off-limits until the Department of Home Affairs considers your application.

Read Also:- Things to Remember While Travelling To Australia With ETA Subclass 601

Extension of Subclass 600 Visitor Visa

The Visitor Visa 600 is a transitory document. You can stay in Australia for a year with a visa subclass 600. You couldn’t extend your tourist visa in Australia. You must apply for a different substantive visa if you intend to stay in Australia for an extended period.

If the conditions of your present visa do not preclude you from remaining in Australia for a prolonged time, you can apply for a new one. Condition 8505 – No Further Stay prevents you from living in Australia once your visa has expired.

The Department of Home Affairs reserves the right to waive the no-more-stay condition in certain situations. You might look into different visa choices, if you intend to reside permanently in Australia. You must be eligible to apply for the visitor visa (extension australia) if you meet the following criteria:

• You must have a valid passport from one of the competent nations
• You must be in good physical health
• You must possess a current visa
• You must not be subject to any visa restrictions that might limit a lengthy stay in Australia.
• You must not have spent a maximum of 12 months in Australia in the previous 18 months.

To request the Visitor Visa extension, you will also require the following paperwork:

• The passport duly updated (with blank pages) will be valid for at least three months after the electronic visa’s expiration date.
• New visa application form completed.
• Proof that you have the money to cover your stay in Australia

Read Also:- Things To Know About Tourist Visa 600 Before Applying

The Steps To Extend Your 600 Tourist Visa For Australia

You must move quickly to extend your visitor visa 600 in Australia if you anticipate remaining in Australia after the visitor visa’s expiration date. Typically, you should be ready to submit your application for a visa extension three weeks before your existing tourist visa expires. However, to understand if you qualify for an extension, you must first examine the kind of your visa.

The steps to extend a tourist visa in Australia are listed below:

• Choose the length of your stay in Australia.
• Check the expiration date of your current tourist visa.
• Consider the visa choices that are best for you.
• Select the Visa subclass 600 that best fits your needs.
• See if there is a “no further stay” restriction on your existing tourist visa.
• Assemble the supporting evidence.
• Make a new visa application and get your health tested.
• Wait for the approval of your new tourist visa.

Read Also:- 7 Common Refusal Reasons For Visitor Visa 600

Step-1 Choose your length of stay in Australia.

Most visitors visiting Australia have tourist visas that allow them to stay up to three months, so this is probably the case for you as well. It’s crucial to consider how long you plan to stay in Australia because it will influence the visa types available to you.

An extension of a tourist visa to Australia might not be the ideal choice for you if, for instance, you anticipate needing to stay in Australia for some time greater than 12 months. You can stay there on a visitor visa for one year.

Step- 2 Check the expiry date of your visitor visa 

Once you’ve determined how long you’ll be staying in Australia, you should establish how much time is yet on your visiting visa. I advise my clients that if their tourist visa is about to expire in less than six weeks, now is the time to start preparing to apply for a tourist visa extension. If you have less than three weeks left on your visitor’s visa, you must leave immediately. You must explain the reason for extending a visitor visa in Australia.

Step- 3 Consider the visa choices that are best for you

Many travellers who enter Australia on a visitor visa later switch to another substantive visa because of a change in circumstance. It can also be what you need to do for your case.

Because you cannot work in Australia while on a visiting visa, if you need help making ends meet throughout your stay, it is not a good idea to your visa extension.

Do you want to start the process for a long-term stay if you are the partner or child of an Australian citizen or permanent resident? Or Maybe you’ve decided to pursue your studies or job in Australia.

You must consider your prior experience with Australian visas. You can stay in Australia on a visiting visa for 12 months within any 18-month term. If any of these situations seek you, applying for a tourist visa extension isn’t the best move.

Step- 4  Select the Visa subclass 600 that best fits your needs

Depending on your objectives, more than one visa extension option is available. Since the conditions for the employment and travel visa are less stringent than those for the partner visa in this circumstance, you might decide to apply for it. Alternatively, Extending the visitor visa to Australia may be the most cost-effective option if you don’t need to work.

Another item you should consider is your true motivation for remaining in Australia, as you will need to persuade the Department of Home Affairs of this when you apply for an extension of your tourist visa.

It may be risky to apply for a visitor visa extension in Australia if your intent is not to travel. If it is denied, it will impair your ability to apply for any future visas. 

Step- 5 See if there is a “no further stay” restriction on your existing tourist visa

If your visiting visa in Australia contains a ‘no further stay’ condition, that could be an issue. It typically means you must depart Australia when your recent visitor visa expires.

For reasons such as the nation the applicant is from or any prior instances of non-compliance with Australian visa requirements, the Department of Home Affairs frequently requires “no further stay” as a condition of a tourist visa. An essential requirement is always in place if a family member sponsors the visitor visa.

The Australian government is allowing travellers with a “no further stay” condition to make a written request to cancel after the coronavirus COVID-19 caused Australia’s border to close. You can then apply for a new visa in Australia if you do this and your application is approved.

Step- 6  Assemble the supporting evidence

You must have decided how to extend a tourist visa in Australia and do not have a “no further stay” constraint. The next step is to gather all of your paperwork so that you can apply for a visa extension.

You might wonder, “Why do you present the same documents again?” Since the Department of Home Affairs awards an extended visitor visa as a new visa application, you must show that you have sources to manage your extended stay in Australia.

You can be handed a questionnaire outlining what you did in Australia and why your stay lasted longer. 

Step- 7  Construct a new visa application for extending the tourist visa and get your health tested.

Now that you have prepared your supporting documents, you must complete the online visa application form at the Department of Home Affairs. At least three weeks before the expiration of your existing visa, you should finish this.

You have 28 days to get a health checkup; if you can’t, contact the Department of Home Affairs and ask how to extend a visa in Australia .

Step- 8  Waiting for the approval of your new tourist visa

On average, it takes 20 days or so from the date of application for a new visa to receive it. If, however, your present visa subclass 600 is about to expire, don’t worry.

While your new visa application is being examined, the Department of Home Affairs will often issue you a Bridging visa A, allowing you to remain legally in Australia.

You must depart Australia within 28 days after the date of cancellation (unless your prior visa is still in effect) if you begin a new visitor visa Australia application while you are there and decide to cancel it before you hear back. You are not eligible for a refund of your application fees. Even so, if that is all the Sydney extended stay you require, it is to add a few extra days or weeks to your Australian vacation visas.

Read Also:- What You Need to Know About Australia Visitor Visa Subclass 600

Visitors can stay in Australia temporarily with a visiting visa. Australia might demand that tourists remain longer. The visitor visa 600 falls under a provisional category. Therefore, once your 600 visa expires, you can’t stay in Australia. A frequent query is how to extend visitor visa 600 in Australia . Extension of this visa is not an option. If you want to stay in Australia longer, you must apply for a new visa classification, either temporary or permanent.

Depending on your circumstances, the department may extend your stay for three, six, or twelve months. Only those who want to stay in Australia for tourist reasons can obtain this extension.

A migration agent, Adelaide , can tell you about the restrictions placed on the visiting visa 600 and what to do when your current visa expires. They will inform you of other visa possibilities based on your requirements and eligibility.

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Australia Tourist Visa - How to Extend Visitor Permit in Australia?

Are you in Australia, and your current visa is about to expire? But do you wish to extend your stay for tourism purposes? You may apply for a new Visitor visa (subclass 600) as you cannot extend this visa. If you are eligible to apply for Australia Tourist Visa , you must do so a minimum of two weeks before your current visa expiry date.

Please note, an Australia Tourist visa (subclass 600) will be granted to you, if:

• You were found to be substantially abiding by your previous visa conditions
• You meet key eligibility criteria for visa subclass 600
• You do not have a 'No further stay' Condition 8503 applicable on your visa

Suppose you are a visitor visa or a Working Holiday visa holder. You can extend your stay for up to 12 months if you fall under any exceptions.

Let's better understand about Australia Tourist Visa (Subclass) 600

Under Visitor Visa (Subclass) 600 (Tourist stream), you can visit Australia for purposes like visiting your family and friends, visiting as a tourist, for a cruise, or for a purpose other than medical treatment or business for a duration of up to 12 months.

But, to be eligible, you must have a genuine intention and must have enough money to support your entire stay in Australia.

Additionally, this visitor visa Australia also allows you to get trained or study for a maximum of 3 months in total 12 months duration this visa. But if the main reason for your travelling to Australia is to pursue a long-term study program, you must apply for an Australia student visa.

Once applied, the DHA generally processes 75% of applications within 44 days and 90% in 48 days.

But, your application processing may take longer, if:

• Your application is found to be incomplete or contains incorrect information
• You miss any supporting documents or information
• DHA is taking a longer time to verify your documents and information

Eligibility requirements to apply for Visitor Visa Australia

• You must meet Australia's health and character requirements in order to ensure that you don't impose any public health and safety risks to the Australian community
• You must have access to enough proof of funds to support yourself when you are in Australia.
• You must be a genuine visitor to live temporarily in Australia and not do things that your visa doesn't allow you to do

The stepwise process to apply for Visitor Visa

You may follow a step-by-step process to apply for a visitor or Australia tourist visa from India or any other country.

• Get your valid passport and complete your health examinations before applying
• Seek professional assistance with your application from registered migration consultants
• Gather relevant documents like:
• Identity proof
• Proof of change of name, if applicable (a marriage or divorce certificate)
• Genuine visitor documents as proof that you are visiting Australia temporarily
• Character documents
• Additional documents if you are under 18
• Apply for Visa online by creating ImmiAccount
• Submit the complete application along with documents and the application fee
• Wait till DHA processes your application
• Visa outcome stage. The DHA will inform you about the decision in writing and provide you with a visa grant number, the date from which your visa starts and all visa conditions applicable on your visa

Instead of spending your time figuring out things and still ending up with visa refusals, you may hire Australian immigration consultants who can guide you in the right direction.     

At Visas Avenue, we offer a comprehensive range of consultancy services to individuals and families aspiring to migrate to Australia. Our team of experienced visa advisors has assisted many individuals and helped them achieve their immigration goals.

If you are planning a trip to Australia and struggling with the Australia tourist visa application process, we are happy to help. You may reach us on Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or write to us at [email protected] , and one of our representatives will call you shortly.

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What Is The Process For Extending Visitor Visa 600 To Stay In Australia?

• 17 Apr 2023
• Australian PR

Australia is an excellent destination for tourism where you can spend priceless time with your loved ones. One might apply for a visitor visa if one wishes to travel to Australia for a brief length of time. On a visiting or working holiday visa, many travellers can stay in Australia for an extended time. They search for ways to extend their subclass 600 visitor visa to Australia .

If your visitor visa is about to expire, would you like to extend your stay in Australia? You will need to apply for a different visa in this situation. Let’s look at how you might make plans to stay in Australia for a longer time.

Australia Visitor Visa Subclass 600

Travellers willing to spend some time in Australia can apply for a tourist visa Australia. It makes it possible for visitors to Australia to meet up with loved ones and go on a cruise. A transitory visa is a 600 visa. You have a year to stay in Australia with a visitor visa. To do business or obtain medical care while within Australia on a visit visa is not permitted.

You must reside outside of Australia to apply for a tourist visa there. You can’t visit Australia until the Department of Home Affairs decides on your application.  There are the following streams for Australia visitor visa subclass 600 :

Tourist Visa Stream For Visitors 

The Tourist Stream is for visitors from outside Australia who want to travel, take a cruise, or see relatives or friends.

Stream For Sponsored Family Visitors’ Visas

Through the Sponsored Family stream, foreigners visiting Australia for family business may apply.

Business Travellers Stream

Foreign nationals should use the business visitor stream when travelling to Australia for business-related events like conferences or negotiations. If you select this stream, you can’t find employment in Australia. The maximum stay allowed by this visa is three months.

Frequent Traveller’s Stream

People from the People’s Republic of China who frequently visit Australia for leisure or business are eligible for the Frequent Traveller Stream.

Latest Blog: Top 10 Reasons To Move To Australia!

Australia Tourist Visa Requirements

You must meet the conditions for an Australian tourist visa when applying for visa number 600. To achieve this, you must:

• Meet the moral and physical standards
• Remain in Australia only temporarily and observe the visa conditions.
• Have enough cash to pay for any expenses you incur while visiting Australia.
• Repay the Australian government for all of the money you owe.
• have no jobs in Australia
• Keep your request for a Visa 600 outside of Australia.
• Genuinely intend to enter Australia temporarily.

Australia Visa Application For Subclass 600

Applicants must submit all necessary papers to apply for a visitor visa subclass 600. You must meet the eligibility requirements. Because it affects how soon your application for a visit visa is handled. Additionally, accurately complete the 600 visa application.

The processing time for visitor visas to Australia is as stated:

• 25% after 14 application days
• 50% of applications in 25 days
• 75% of applications received in 45 days
• 90% applications In 11 months

If you wish to speed up the processing of your parent visitor visa, you should submit your visa application with all required supporting documents. Check the visa application form once more to ensure it is accurate and complete to the best of your knowledge with the guidance of a migration agent in Perth.

You must pay the visitor visa 600 fees as the visa application charges. Each stream of the visiting visa subclass 600 costs AUD150, except for the frequent traveller stream, which costs AUD1,120.

Must Read: What You Should Know About Australia Before Applying For A Visitor Visa?

Tourist Visa Extension 

For visa holders in Australia, temporary visas are the only official authorization available. The Department of Foreign Affairs has tight guidelines that visa holders must abide by while extending their visas in Australia when they need to stay there longer than their initial visas.

The Visitor Visa 600 is a transitory document. You can only stay in Australia for a year on a visa subclass 600. Your tourist visa cannot be extended to Australia, despite what you may believe. To stay in Australia longer, you must apply for another substantial visa.

You can apply for a new visa if the terms of your current one do not prevent you from staying in Australia for longer. If your visa has expired, Condition 8503 – No Further Stay prohibits you from residing in Australia.

Condition 8503

The 8503 conditions included on a visitor visa subclass 600 are one to be aware of. While in Australia, the 8503 restriction precludes the visa holder from applying for any other type of substantive visa save a protection visa. However, you can ignore this condition. You must experience a significant change (like being unable to travel owing to a medical condition, significant illness or death within a close family) in your circumstances that is out of your control, compelling, and compassionate to waive it.

It is significant to note that the Department’s processing of your waiver request could take some time. You are not granted a bridging visa while they make their waiver decision. You must give yourself enough time to submit your waiver application before your visa expires.

Process For Extension

It’s crucial to comprehend the cost before beginning your Visitor Visa Australia extension. Remember that you must pay this charge when submitting your Visa 600 application; the current amount is roughly $345.

You must apply for a new visa if you plan to stay in Australia for an extended period. It could be a different substantive visa or another guest visa. Temporary visas like a work visa (Subclass 482) or a student visa (Subclass 500) may be among them. A permanent visa, such as a partner visa (subclass 820/801) or a kind of permanent visa for Australia (subclass 186), may also be applied for. You must choose a visa based on your qualifications and the purpose of your immigration extension to stay in Australia.

It is essential to remember that some visa preparation may require several stages and take time. Before your current visa expires, it is good for you to prepare and apply for an Australian visa.

You will be issued a bridging visa once you have applied for another substantive visa. While the Department evaluates your visa application, you can remain in Australia legally with the help of a bridging visa. A bridging visa A (BVA) is what you’ll get generally. If you travel while holding a BVA, you can’t return to Australia. When you leave the nation, it is over. Because of this, you must apply for a bridging visa B (BVB) after receiving a BVA if you need to travel abroad.

Travellers are only permitted to stay in Australia temporarily with a visiting visa. Australia may demand that tourists should live longer. Temporary visas fall under the visitor visa 600 Australia category. Therefore, once your subclass 600 visa in Australia expires, you are not permitted to stay in Australia. A frequent query is how to lodge a visa application for an extension of stay on an Australian visiting visa 600. It follows that it is not possible to extend this visa.

You must apply for a new visa subclass, either temporary or permanent, of your choice to extend your stay in Australia. If you have questions about stretching a visiting visa 600 in Australia, you can schedule an appointment with a registered migration agent in Perth .

about the author

Migration Agent Perth specialist in Spouse, work and family visas as well as Visa Refusal and cancellation. Get quality assistance with their visa and migration issues with us.

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• Australian Visa

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I’ve been using Migration Agent Perth, WA for Visa concerns for a long time. Me and my partner recently went to their office to enquire about our partner visa. Their team was really professional and informed about our needs, and their guidance with visa applications made things much easier for us.I agree that the processes are unpleasant, tedious, and involve a lot of red tape, but I have to applaud Migration Agent Perth’s employees with keeping us on schedule and ensuring that we received our visa. I would recommend them because they are both cost-effective and the best immigration agents in Perth. If you want to get any kind of visa without any hassle, you must go there at least once.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Australia Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: February 23, 2024

Australia has a complex visa policy, but thankfully visiting Australia as a tourist is quite easy. Australia does not offer visa exemption, so all visitors must obtain a tourist visa. All Australia visa applications are done entirely online. 

Quick summary:

• There is no VISA-FREE access to Australia, everyone must hold either an ETA, eVisitor or Visitor visa
• ETA is available to 33 nationalities, costs 20 AUD, approved immediately
• eVisitor visa is available to 36 nationalities, free of cost and approved within a day
• Visitor visa is available to all nationalities, costs 190 AUD, processing takes 1-3 weeks 

In this article, I will summarize visa requirements, eligibility, and procedure for the four main ways to visit Australia as a tourist: the ETA, eVisitor, tourist visa, and transit visa.

Table of Contents

Australia visa requirements.

Passport validity required

Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay to enter Australia as a tourist.

Entry requirements

All tourists coming to Australia must meet the following conditions:

• Must be free from any disease or condition that may be a burden to Australia’s healthcare system, such as tuberculosis.
• Must be a genuine visitor and obey the rules and conditions set by the visa.
• Must have a good character and not have a substantial criminal record.
• Must have enough money to finance your stay in Australia.

Visa Policy and Visa Types

Australia does not offer VISA-FREE access to any nationality. You would either need an ETA or a visa. The main tourist visas are summarized in the following table:

According to the Trans-Tasman Travel Agreement, citizens of New Zealand receive a free Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival at any Australian port of entry . This allows them to live and work in Australia indefinitely.

All Australian visas are electronic visas. Visa information is linked to the passport number and verifiable online. 

ETA (Electronic Travel Authority, Subclass 601)

Australia ETA is available to nationals of 33 countries and territories listed below. In most cases, the ETA is approved immediately. For that reason, ETA is often considered a visa exemption or visa waiver.

• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City

The ETA application is entirely online and can only be applied using the Australian ETA mobile phone app. The app is available as a free download.

There is no charge to apply for ETA, but using the app itself costs a service charge of 20 AUD.

For more information, read the complete guide to Australia Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for details on eligibility, required documents, the ETA app and the application process.

eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)

The eVisitor visa is available to nationals of 36 countries exclusively in Europe.

The main difference between the eVisitor visa and the ETA is that the eVisitor requires more documents to be submitted, such as a bank statement as proof of sufficient funds. 

Most eVisitor visa applications are processed within a day. There is no fee to apply for an eVisitor visa. 

The success rate of the eVisitor visa is 98.5%, even higher than the ETA’s success rate of 97%. This means that if you’re eligible for both the ETA and the eVisitor, you can save 20 AUD by applying for the eVisitor as they are identical in all other aspects.

For more information, read the complete guide to Australia eVisitor Visa for details on eligibility, required documents, the application process and our personal experience.

Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream, Subclass 600)

The subclass 600 is Australia’s main tourist visa. It has several streams depending on the purpose such as tourism or business and whether you are applying from outside or within Australia. 

For this guide, we will focus on the visitor visa for tourism that can only be applied from outside Australia. 

Eligibility, validity and duration of stay

Visitor visas for tourism are available to all nationalities. 

Australia issues only eVisas. Therefore, the tourist visa is also an eVisa. The visa will be electronically linked to your passport. You can carry a print of the eVisa with you when you travel. 

Visitors visas are either single or multiple-entry valid for up to 3 years. On each visit, you are allowed to stay up to 3 months. 

Application process and documentation

Applications for tourist visas can be made online through the ImmiAccount portal.

The documents required for a tourist visa include any of the below. The actual documents required depends on a case-by-case basis. 

• Proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements, pay slips, tax returns, etc.
• Proof of reasons to return home, such as employment letter, property ownership, family dependency, etc. 
• Proof of travel history such as previous visas and entry/exit stamps of the countries you have traveled to.

50% of applications get processed within a week and 90% of all applications get processed within 21 days.

The fee for the tourist visa is 190 AUD. 

For more information, read the complete guide to Australia Visitor Visa for details on required documents, biometric appointment, application process and our personal experience.

Benefits of an Australian visa

Australian tourist visa not only grants you access to Australia but also to many other countries. As of 2024, you can travel to 16 countries with an Australian visa. Read this article on VISA-FREE countries for Australian visa to learn how to visit these 16 countries.

Transit Visa (Subclass 771) 

Eligible nationalities can transit without a visa (TWOV) through Australian airports. For TWOV, you must meet the following conditions:

• Stay airside and not clear immigration
• Have your onward flight within 8 hours of arriving in Australia
• Hold a passport from the following eligible countries

TWOV eligible countries

• Marshall Islands
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates

Transit visa requirements

If you already hold an ETA, eVistor or Visitor visa, then you do not need a transit visa. Rest must obtain a transit visa (subclass 771). The transit visa allows entry into Australia for short stays of up to 72 hours.

To apply for a transit visa, you must have a confirmed onward ticket to another country within 72 hours of arrival and the required visas for it. In addition to those, you may also require proof of adequate health insurance. 

For more information, read the complete guide to Australia Transit Visa for details on the application process, required documents, fees and transit procedure at the airport.

Visa Extension

Extensions are not allowed for any of the Australian tourist visas. You are allowed to apply for another visa while you are in Australia, such as the Visitor Visa (Onshore stream).

Certain conditions attached to your current visa may prevent you from applying for another visa while in Australia. The most notable one is Condition 8503: No further stay.

When applying for a new visa from within the country, a Bridging Visa is automatically applied for you. A Bridging Visa will keep your stay lawful while waiting for your new visa to be approved.

As a tourist, you will receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) while you are waiting for your new visa. BVA expires if you leave Australia.

For more information, read the article on Australia Visa Extension for details on rules, conditions and procedures to extend your stay in Australia.

Entry and Exit Procedures

Australia has one of the most streamlined entry procedures in the world. Passports are not stamped on entry or exit. 

If eligible to use SmartGates, you can process your entry and exit without even speaking to a border official. 

SmartGates eligibility

To use SmartGates at Australian airports, your passport must be an ePassport from one of the following countries. 

You must check your eligibility to use SmartGates at the kiosks just before the gates. If eligible, you will be given a ticket. Then you must proceed to the SmartGates and follow the procedure. 

If not eligible, you will be directed to a border officer.

Other passports

All other passport holders must proceed to an immigration officer box. Answer any questions about your stay and intentions. 

Your passport will not be stamped. But if you need evidence of entry, you can request a stamp. 

Incoming Passenger Card (IPC)

All arriving passengers must complete and present a paper arrival card called Incoming Passenger Card (IPC). You will be given one on your flight to Australia.

Pay attention to the items you must declare. Australia has stringent biosecurity protocols and failure to declare even harmless items, may lead to fines and severe penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can i stay in australia for 6 months as a tourist.

The eVisitor, ETA, and most Tourist Visas allow stays of up to 90 days at a time. You need to explicitly apply for a 6-month Tourist Visa to stay in Australia that long.

How many times can you enter Australia on a tourist visa?

The eVisitor and the ETA allow unlimited entries into Australia. Regular tourist visas can be either one or multiple entries.

How much bank balance is required for an Australia tourist visa?

Australian Immigration does not specify a minimum and it will depend on the length of your trip. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 4000 AUD per month of intended stay.

How long do you have to leave Australia for before returning?

There is no minimum time outside of Australia required. As long as you have a valid visa, you can go back whenever you want.

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.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

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02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

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.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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• Travel Destinations
• Australia & South Pacific

How Long Can You Stay In Australia With A Tourist Visa?

Published: November 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Isobel Payton

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Planning a trip to Australia? One of the first things you need to consider is your visa. Australia offers various types of tourist visas to visitors from around the world, allowing them to explore the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences that the country has to offer.

Understanding the duration of stay allowed on a tourist visa is crucial for proper trip planning. It determines how long you can legally remain in Australia, explore its attractions, and indulge in its diverse offerings.

In this article, we will provide an overview of Australia’s tourist visa options and explain the duration of stay permitted for each type. We will also discuss the factors that can impact the length of your stay and the potential consequences of overstaying your visa.

Whether you are applying for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601, an eVisitor subclass 651, or a Visitor visa subclass 600, this article will help you have a clear understanding of the time you can spend in Australia as a tourist.

Overview of Australia’s tourist visa

Australia offers several types of tourist visas to cater to the needs of different travelers. These visas allow individuals to visit the country for tourism or recreational purposes, such as vacationing, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.

There are three main types of tourist visas available:

• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601: This is the most common type of tourist visa for visitors from eligible countries. It is electronically linked to the passport and allows multiple stays of up to three months each within a 12-month period.
• eVisitor subclass 651: This visa is specifically designed for citizens of European Union (EU) member countries and a few other European countries. It enables multiple short-term visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes, with each visit being up to three months within a 12-month period.
• Visitor visa subclass 600: This visa caters to visitors who are not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor visa. It allows individuals to visit Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or other short-term non-work purposes. The duration of stay can vary depending on the individual circumstances and visa conditions.

It’s important to determine the most suitable visa type for your specific travel needs. Each visa has its own requirements, application process, and permitted duration of stay. Understanding the characteristics of each visa will help you make an informed decision and ensure a successful visit to Australia.

In the next sections, we will delve deeper into the duration of stay permitted for each type of tourist visa, as well as the factors that can influence the length of your stay.

Duration of stay for different types of tourist visas

The duration of stay permitted on a tourist visa in Australia varies depending on the type of visa you hold. Let’s take a closer look at the duration of stay for each of the three main tourist visa types:

• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601: With an ETA visa, you can stay in Australia for a maximum of three months per visit. This visa allows multiple entries within a 12-month period from the date of grant or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. However, each stay must not exceed three months.
• eVisitor subclass 651: The eVisitor visa grants visitors a maximum stay of three months per visit as well. Like the ETA visa, it allows multiple entries within a 12-month period from the date of grant or until the passport expires. Similar to the ETA visa, each stay must not exceed three months.
• Visitor visa subclass 600: The duration of stay for a Visitor visa subclass 600 can vary depending on the visa conditions and individual circumstances. The visa may allow stays ranging from three months to 12 months, depending on the purpose of the visit and the conditions specified by the Department of Home Affairs. It is important to check the specific conditions and validity period of your Visitor visa subclass 600 to determine your allowed stay duration.

It’s worth mentioning that the duration of stay is typically calculated from the date of your arrival in Australia. It is essential to comply with the visa conditions and ensure that you depart the country before the authorized period ends.

Now that we have covered the basic duration of stay for each visa type, let’s explore the factors that can affect the length of your stay in Australia on a tourist visa.

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 is a popular tourist visa option for visitors from eligible countries. This visa allows for multiple short-term visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes.

With an ETA visa, you are permitted to stay in Australia for a maximum of three months per visit. However, it’s important to note that each stay must not exceed three months, and the total duration of your visits should not exceed three months within a 12-month period.

The ETA visa is electronically linked to your passport, eliminating the need for a physical visa label. This makes it a convenient and efficient option for eligible travelers. The ETA visa can be applied for online, either directly through the Australian government’s website or through a travel agent or airline.

It’s important to mention that the ETA visa allows for multiple entries within the 12-month period from the date of grant or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that you can leave and re-enter Australia multiple times during the validity of your visa.

It’s crucial to comply with the visa conditions and ensure that you depart Australia before the authorized period ends. Overstaying your visa can have serious consequences, including future visa rejections, penalties, and even a re-entry ban. Therefore, it is essential to plan your trip and keep track of your stay duration to avoid any complications.

It’s also worth noting that the validity period of an ETA visa is commonly determined by the passport’s expiration date. If your passport expires before the 12-month period is over, your ETA visa will cease to be valid, and you will need to apply for a new visa with your new passport.

The ETA visa offers flexibility and ease of use for eligible visitors, making it a popular choice for those planning a short-term visit to Australia for tourism or business purposes.

Next, let’s explore the second type of tourist visa available for Australia: the eVisitor subclass 651.

eVisitor subclass 651

The eVisitor subclass 651 visa is specifically designed for citizens of European Union (EU) member countries, as well as a few other European countries. This visa allows for multiple short-term visits to Australia for various purposes, including tourism or business.

Similar to the ETA visa, the eVisitor visa grants visitors a maximum stay of three months per visit. Each stay must not exceed three months, and the total duration of your visits should not exceed three months within a 12-month period.

The eVisitor visa, like the ETA visa, is electronically linked to your passport, making it efficient and convenient to use. It allows for multiple entries within the 12-month period from the date of grant or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

To apply for an eVisitor subclass 651 visa, you can use the Australian government’s online application system or enlist the services of a travel agent or airline. The application process is straightforward, and you will need to provide the necessary documentation and meet the eligibility criteria.

It’s important to note that the eVisitor visa does not grant you the right to work in Australia. If you plan to work during your visit, you will need to explore alternative visa options that allow for work authorization.

As with any visa, it is essential to comply with the conditions and validity period of the eVisitor visa. Ensure that you depart Australia before the authorized period ends to avoid any penalties or future visa complications.

It’s also crucial to keep in mind that the eVisitor visa is not available to all countries. Only citizens of EU member countries and a select few European countries are eligible for this visa. If you are not from one of these countries, you will need to consider other visa options, such as the Visitor visa subclass 600.

Now that we’ve covered the eVisitor subclass 651 visa, let’s move on to discussing the Visitor visa subclass 600, which is suitable for visitors who are not eligible for an ETA or eVisitor visa.

Visitor visa subclass 600

The Visitor visa subclass 600 is a versatile visa option for visitors who are not eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa. It allows individuals to visit Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or other short-term non-work purposes.

The duration of stay for a Visitor visa subclass 600 can vary depending on the visa conditions and individual circumstances. Generally, the visa may allow stays ranging from three months to 12 months, providing greater flexibility for travelers with longer-term plans in Australia.

It’s crucial to carefully review the specific conditions and validity period of your Visitor visa subclass 600 to determine your allowed stay duration. These conditions are typically outlined in the visa grant notice or in the visa label affixed to your passport.

When applying for a Visitor visa subclass 600, you will need to demonstrate your intention to visit Australia temporarily and satisfy the visa requirements as specified by the Department of Home Affairs. The application process involves submitting the necessary documentation and paying the applicable visa fees.

Unlike the ETA and eVisitor visas, the Visitor visa subclass 600 may have additional requirements, such as health examinations or character assessments, depending on the individual circumstances and proposed activities in Australia.

It’s important to note that the Visitor visa subclass 600 does not provide work authorization. If you plan to work during your visit, you will need to explore alternative visa options that allow for employment in Australia.

As with any tourist visa, it is imperative to comply with the conditions and validity period of the Visitor visa subclass 600. Overstaying your visa can have serious consequences, including future visa rejections, penalties, and even a re-entry ban. Ensure that you depart Australia before the authorized period ends to avoid any complications.

Now that we’ve explored the three main types of tourist visas available for Australia, it’s important to understand the factors that can affect the duration of your stay on a tourist visa.

Factors affecting the duration of stay

Several factors can influence the duration of stay permitted on a tourist visa in Australia. While the specific conditions vary depending on the type of visa you hold, here are the key factors to consider:

• Visa conditions and validity period: Each tourist visa has its own set of conditions and validity period that determine how long you can stay in Australia. It is essential to review the visa grant notice or label to understand the specific conditions and duration applicable to your visa type.
• Extension and multiple entries: Some visas, such as the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 and the eVisitor subclass 651, allow for multiple entries within a specified timeframe. This gives you the flexibility to leave and re-enter Australia multiple times as long as it is within the authorized period.
• Individual circumstances and immigration assessment: Your individual circumstances and the assessment made by the Department of Home Affairs can affect the duration of your stay. If you have compelling reasons or exceptional circumstances, you may be granted a longer stay period. Conversely, if there are concerns regarding your intentions or compliance, a shorter stay duration may be imposed.

It’s important to note that the duration of stay allowed on a tourist visa is typically calculated from the date of your arrival in Australia. It is crucial to monitor your stay and ensure that you leave the country before the authorized period ends to avoid any visa violations.

As each visa type has different conditions and considerations, it is advisable to consult the official Australian government website or seek professional advice to better understand the factors that may affect the duration of your stay on a specific visa.

Now that we have explored the factors influencing the duration of stay, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of overstaying your visa.

Visa conditions and validity period

One of the key factors that can affect the duration of your stay in Australia on a tourist visa is the set of conditions and validity period specified by the visa. These conditions are outlined in the visa grant notice or in the visa label affixed to your passport.

Each type of tourist visa has its own specific conditions and validity period that determine how long you can legally stay in Australia. It is crucial to thoroughly review and understand these conditions to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues.

The conditions and validity period of a tourist visa can vary depending on factors such as the visa subclass, the purpose of your visit, and your individual circumstances. For example, an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 visa typically allows for multiple short-term visits of up to three months each within a 12-month period. On the other hand, a Visitor visa subclass 600 may have a duration of stay ranging from three months to 12 months, depending on the specific conditions assigned to the visa.

In addition to the duration of stay, visa conditions may include restrictions or limitations on activities such as employment, studying, or healthcare access. It’s important to understand and abide by these conditions during your stay in Australia.

Visa validity refers to the period during which the visa is considered legally active and can be used for travel and entry into Australia. It’s essential to take note of the visa’s validity period as this can impact the timing and length of your visit. If your visa expires while you are in Australia, it can lead to complications and potential visa violations.

Remember that the visa validity period is often determined by the expiration date of your passport. If your passport expires before the visa’s validity period ends, your visa will cease to be valid, and you will need to obtain a new visa with your new passport.

It is crucial to comply with the conditions and validity period of your tourist visa. Failure to do so can result in penalties, future visa rejections, and even a re-entry ban. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully plan your visit and ensure you leave Australia before your visa expires.

Now that we have discussed the importance of visa conditions and validity period, let’s move on to the next factor that can affect the duration of your stay in Australia on a tourist visa.

Extension and multiple entries

Another factor that can impact the duration of your stay in Australia on a tourist visa is the ability to extend your stay and the provision for multiple entries.

Depending on the type of visa you hold, there may be opportunities to extend your stay beyond the initial duration granted. Extensions are typically granted on a case-by-case basis and are subject to various factors, including the purpose of your visit, your activities in Australia, and the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs.

If you wish to extend your stay, it is important to apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Failing to do so may result in your visa expiring and potential issues with your immigration status. Extension applications should be made through the appropriate channels, such as online application systems or by reaching out to the Department of Home Affairs.

In addition, certain types of visas, such as the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 or the eVisitor subclass 651, allow for multiple entries within a specified timeframe. This means that you can leave and re-enter Australia multiple times during the validity of your visa. Each entry is treated as a separate visit, with the duration of stay resetting upon each entry.

For example, if you hold an ETA visa, you can enter Australia multiple times within the 12-month period from the date of grant or until the passport expires. However, each stay must not exceed three months. This provision for multiple entries can be beneficial if you plan to explore other countries in the region and return to Australia during your trip.

It is important to note that the ability to extend your stay or seek multiple entries may vary depending on the visa type and specific circumstances. It is always recommended to check the conditions and limitations associated with your specific visa subclass to understand your options for extension and re-entry.

Remember that extending your stay or seeking multiple entries is not guaranteed. The decision is ultimately at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs and is subject to their assessment of your circumstances and compliance with visa regulations.

By being aware of the extension and multiple entry provisions of your tourist visa, you can plan your stay in Australia more effectively and make the most of your time in the country.

Next, we will explore the third factor that can affect the duration of your stay in Australia on a tourist visa: individual circumstances and immigration assessment.

Individual circumstances and immigration assessment

When it comes to determining the duration of stay on a tourist visa in Australia, individual circumstances and immigration assessment play an important role. These factors take into account the specific details and considerations of each visitor’s situation.

The Department of Home Affairs carefully assesses individual circumstances and intentions to ensure compliance with visa regulations. During the assessment process, various factors may be considered, such as the purpose of your visit, your ties to your home country, financial stability, and evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.

Based on these factors, the Department of Home Affairs may grant different lengths of stay to different individuals, even if they hold the same type of visa. For instance, someone with a compelling reason or exceptional circumstances may be granted a longer stay duration, while others may receive a shorter stay duration.

Additionally, immigration officers have the authority to grant discretionary periods of stay upon arrival in Australia. This means that you may be given a shorter or longer stay duration at the discretion of the officer, depending on their assessment of your situation.

It’s important to note that while you can provide supporting documentation and information to demonstrate your intentions and circumstances, the final decision lies with the immigration officer or the Department of Home Affairs. It is essential to truthfully and accurately provide all required information during the application process and maintain compliance with the conditions of your visa.

Individual circumstances and immigration assessment can have a significant impact on the duration of your stay in Australia. Being well-prepared, providing comprehensive documentation, and demonstrating genuine reasons for your visit can help increase the likelihood of a favorable assessment.

It is crucial to be aware of the individual assessment process and comply with all visa regulations throughout your stay. Failing to do so may result in unintended visa violations, future visa rejections, and potential complications with your immigration status.

Now that we have explored the factors affecting the duration of stay, let’s discuss the potential consequences of overstaying your tourist visa in Australia.

Consequences of overstaying your visa

Overstaying your visa in Australia can have serious consequences and should be avoided at all costs. It is vital to understand and abide by the specified duration of stay on your tourist visa to maintain a lawful status in the country.

The potential consequences of overstaying your visa include:

• Legal repercussions: Overstaying your visa is a violation of immigration laws. This can lead to penalties, fines, and potential legal action, including detention and removal from the country. These legal consequences can have a long-lasting impact on your ability to visit or live in Australia in the future.
• Visa complications: Overstaying your visa can result in future visa rejections and difficulty obtaining visas for Australia or other countries. Immigration authorities take visa violations seriously and may view overstaying as an indication of non-compliance, making it harder to obtain a visa in the future.
• Re-entry bans: Overstaying your visa can result in a re-entry ban, prohibiting you from returning to Australia for a specified period. Re-entry bans are often imposed to deter individuals from repeatedly violating visa regulations and can significantly restrict future travel opportunities.
• Effect on immigration records: Overstaying can have a negative impact on your immigration record. It creates a blemish in your history, which can affect future visa applications, employment opportunities, and other immigration-related matters both in Australia and potentially in other countries.
• Impact on travel plans: Overstaying your visa can disrupt your travel plans and cause stress and inconvenience. It can result in unexpected travel expenses, last-minute changes, and difficulties in arranging future travel arrangements.

It’s important to note that overstaying a tourist visa, even by just a few days, can have serious consequences. It is crucial to keep track of your visa’s expiration date and make proper plans to depart Australia before the authorized period ends.

If you find that you need to extend your stay due to unforeseen circumstances, it is crucial to apply for an extension before your current visa expires. By following the appropriate procedures and maintaining compliance with visa regulations, you can avoid the potential consequences of overstaying.

Remember, it is your responsibility to ensure that you have a valid visa and comply with its conditions during your stay in Australia. If you have any uncertainties or questions regarding your visa status, it is advisable to seek advice from the Department of Home Affairs or consult an immigration professional.

Now that we have discussed the consequences of overstaying, let’s conclude our exploration of the duration of stay on a tourist visa in Australia.

Understanding the duration of stay on a tourist visa is essential for anyone planning a trip to Australia. Whether you are considering an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601, an eVisitor subclass 651, or a Visitor visa subclass 600, knowing the length of time you can legally stay in Australia is crucial for proper trip planning.

The duration of stay permitted on a tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa you hold. The ETA and eVisitor visas typically allow for stays of up to three months per visit, with the option for multiple entries within a specified timeframe. The Visitor visa subclass 600 offers more flexibility with possible stay durations ranging from three months to 12 months depending on the conditions and individual circumstances.

Several factors can affect the duration of your stay on a tourist visa, including the visa conditions and validity period, the ability to extend your stay, and the immigration assessment of your individual circumstances. It is important to comply with the conditions and validity period of your visa and seek appropriate extensions if needed.

Overstaying your visa can have serious consequences, including legal repercussions, visa complications, re-entry bans, and negative impacts on your immigration records. It is crucial to depart Australia before the authorized period ends and avoid any violations of visa regulations.

In conclusion, when planning your trip to Australia, carefully consider the type of tourist visa that best suits your needs, understand the duration of stay permitted, and ensure that you comply with the visa conditions and validity period. By doing so, you can have a pleasant and lawful visit to Australia, immersing yourself in its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences.

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New Delhi:  A senior Australian journalist stationed in New Delhi has left India claiming that the Narendra Modi government refused to extend her visa because her reporting had “crossed a line”.

Avani Dias, the South Asia bureau chief of ABC News, posted on X that she had to leave the country “abruptly”, flying out on 19 April — the first day of India’s weeks-long general elections.

This comes a little over two months after French journalist Vanessa Dougnac, who was accused by the Indian government of “malicious” reporting and not complying with rules and regulations, claimed she has been forced to leave the country. Dougnac had said in a statement then that she had been ‘unfairly accused of prejudicing the interests of the state’ and that ‘it has become clear that she cannot keep living in India’.

In her X post, Dias said the decision to deny her an extension was finally overturned due to the Australian government’s intervention, but the Indian government would only give her another two months in the country. The visa came through less than 24 hours before she was scheduled to leave and it was too late, she alleged.

Dias said she was also told that her media accreditation to cover the Indian elections “would not come through because of an Indian Ministry directive”.

“We left on day one of voting in the national election in what Modi calls ‘the mother of democracy’,” she wrote on X.

Last week, I had to leave India abruptly. The Modi Government told me my visa extension would be denied, saying my reporting "crossed a line". After Australian Government intervention, I got a mere two-month extension …less than 24 hours before my flight. 1/2 — Avani Dias (@AvaniDias) April 22, 2024

We were also told my election accreditation would not come through because of an Indian Ministry directive. We left on day one of voting in the national election in what Modi calls "the mother of democracy”. Hear more on our podcast Looking for Modi: https://t.co/rn6wTkdI21 — Avani Dias (@AvaniDias) April 22, 2024

Dias later took to her podcast ‘Looking For Modi’ to claim that the Indian government’s move was purportedly because of her documentary on the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year, which had sparked a  diplomatic row  between the two countries.

“I received a call from someone in the Indian ministry stating that my routine visa extension application wouldn’t be approved, and I needed to leave the country within a few weeks. The official specifically mentioned my story on the Sikh separatist, saying it had gone too far,” Dias said in her podcast.

“The Narendra Modi government has made me feel so uncomfortable that we have decided to leave,” added the Sri Lankan-origin journalist in the final episode of her podcast series.

Dias claimed the team faced many questions by Indian authorities during filming and were initially stopped by the government. “I thought I would be fine as a foreign journalist, but I was mistaken; asking challenging questions about Narendra Modi can lead to trouble. He doesn’t appreciate criticism from the media or the opposition,” she said in the episode.

Government sources however said Dias’ contention that she was not allowed to cover elections and was compelled to leave the country were “not correct, misleading and mischievous”.

They stressed that Dias had violated visa rules. “Inspite of this, on her request, she was assured that her visa would be extended for the coverage of the general elections. Her previous visa was valid till 20 April 2024,” a source said.

The source added: “She paid the visa fee on 18 April and her visa was extended till end June the same day. She, however, chose to leave India on 20th April. At the time of her departure she held a valid visa and her extension of visa stood approved.”

The source further said that coverage of election activities outside of booths is permitted to all journalist visa holders. “Authority letters are required only for access to polling booths and counting stations. This, however, cannot be processed while the visa extension is under process. It is pertinent to note that other ABC correspondents — Meghna Bali and Som Patidar — have already received their letters.”

Sources also told ThePrint that the documentary was shot “without appropriate permission”.

They said the Border Security Force (BSF) had denied permission to film near the Attari/Wagah border due to security-related restrictions, but she still went ahead. An official also said the visas of her associates were obtained using “misleading/incomplete information”.

“The documentary glorified terrorism, such as the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the bombing of Air India Flight Kanishka. It provided a platform for extremists and fringe groups like Dal Khalsa, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and Sikhs for Justice Australia,” the official added.

The documentary Sikhs, Spies and Murder: Investigating India’s Alleged Hit on Foreign Soil focused on the killing of Nijjar outside a gurdwara in Canada’s Surrey on 18 June, 2023. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has accused the Indian government of being involved in the fatal shooting, a claim denied by Indian authorities as “absurd and motivated”.

YouTube had blocked the video on 24 March, just days after its release, following orders from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Government officials cited “a lack of objectivity” in the coverage, noting the failure to mention support for the Indian state in Punjab and Nijjar’s pro-Khalistan stance.

The 33-year-old journalist also claimed that an earlier podcast on Modi’s alleged role in the Gujarat riots was banned too.

“It was shocking. We were forced to leave on the Indian government’s terms,” she said, accusing the Modi government of issuing her visa at the very last minute.

“It became too difficult to do my job in India. I struggled to access public events held by Modi’s party, and the government wouldn’t provide me with the necessary passes to cover the elections. The ministry delayed so long that we were packed and ready to leave,” Dias claimed in her podcast.

(Edited by Tikli Basu)

Also read: Indian woman cadet on vessel seized by Iranian military returns home

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The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know

Published: Apr 25, 2024, 12:17am

Table of Contents

Do australians need travel insurance for vietnam, what does travel insurance for vietnam cover, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Vietnam is an increasingly popular travel destination for Australians, with the country even hoping to encourage more Aussies to visit by potentially waiving visa requirements in due time.

The Southeast Asian country is set to be high on the list for Aussies going overseas in 2024. The number of Australian tourists in Vietnam now exceeds pre-pandemic levels: more than 317,000 Australians visited Vietnam in 2019 , while there were 390,000 Aussie visitors in 2023.

Plus, as more and more flights become available, such as low-cost carrier Vietjet Air launching a direct service between Hanoi and Melbourne earlier this year, getting to Vietnam is becoming easier for Australians.

If the direct flights, fascinating history, vast scenery and delicious food aren’t enough to convince Australian travellers, the cost may be. Vietnam is considered one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world for Australian tourists due to our strong conversion rate against the Vietnamese Dong and the nation’s low cost of living in comparison to our own.

And while cheap thrills may be what you’re after on your vacation, it’s important not to skimp on the necessities that may cost that little bit extra—such as travel insurance. This guide outlines what you need to know regarding travel insurance in Vietnam.

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Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Investing in travel insurance is a good idea for any overseas trip. Travel insurance policies can help protect you from having to dive deep into your pockets, with many offering unlimited medical treatment while abroad and cancellation cover for your trip should the unexpected occur.

Travel insurance is not just handy for medical purposes or travel changes, either. Your personal items can be covered, should any baggage go missing or an important item be stolen—which, unfortunately, often occurs in Vietnam.

Smarttraveller warns Australians to be alert at all times in Vietnam, considering petty theft–including bag slashing–is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common, the website states.

Like most international travel insurance policies, you will be able to find basic coverage for your trip to Vietnam, or choose to opt for a more comprehensive, albeit more expensive, policy.

While a basic policy will often cover medical expenses and lost luggage,a comprehensive policy includes a lot more. Most basic policies also likely won’t offer compensation for travel delays, stolen cash, accidental death and more.

Additionally, if you are going on a trip to multiple countries within the year, it may be worth opting for an ‘annual multi trip’ insurance instead—making sure that there are no exclusions to the regions you are wishing to visit.

Visa Requirements For Australians Travelling to Vietnam

You’ll still be allowed to travel to Vietnam if you don’t invest in travel insurance, but you do so at your own risk—and, as stated, it is highly advised to have a travel insurance policy for any overseas trip.

However, what you cannot do is enter Vietnam as an Australian tourist without a tourist visa. While Vietnam will grant Australian citizens visas on arrival, applying for one online is much easier.

A tourist visa costs under $100 AUD; however the exact price depends on your length of stay.

The Vietnamese government may consider waiving visas for Australian citizens, especially since many other SEA countries have done so such as Indonesia and Thailand .

However, at the time of writing, Forbes Advisor Australia has confirmed that Australian citizens must still obtain a visa to visit Vietnam for tourism purposes.

The exact inclusions of your travel insurance will be dependent on your personal policy and the provider.

However, generally speaking, you can expect a travel insurance policy for Vietnam to offer some level of cover for:

• Medical expenses;
• Lost, damaged or stolen luggage;
• Travel cancellations or delays ;
• Personal liability;
• Credit card fraud;
• Covid-19 expenses;

If you are partaking in certain sports and activities, you will need to make sure that you choose a policy that covers them. You’ll also need to make sure that your policy covers any pre-existing medical conditions as well.

Plus, if you are travelling with valuables, you may wish to opt for a policy that lets you increase the protection cover on your items.

Ultimately, you need to consider what your trip consists of, what you will be taking with you, and your physical health to establish what policies would be appropriate for you.

From there, you can compare quotes of different policies and providers to ensure you have the optimal—yet affordable—cover for your trip to Vietnam.

Does Travel Insurance Cover The Ha-Giang Loop?

Considered one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the world, the Ha-Giang Loop is a popular tourist activity in Vietnam for adventurous travellers. If the Ha-Giang Loop is one of your goals, you’ll need to make sure you have travel insurance that covers motorcycling.

Occasionally a policy may include this as one of their included ‘sports and activities’, but it is more often the case that you will need to purchase an additional ‘adventure pack’ that is either specific to, or includes, motorsports.

Even so, when purchasing an additional pack to cover motorbikes, you need to be cautious of the conditions. For example, some policies will only cover motorcycle riding if the bike you are riding has an engine under a certain size.

Often, coverage will cease and claims won’t be accepted if you haven’t been wearing the correct safety equipment such as boots and a helmet, or have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

What Does Travel Insurance Exclude?

Your travel insurance policy may exclude some activities that you wish to partake in, unless you can opt-in to purchase an additional adventure pack as explained above in regards to motorbike riding.

Just like with the inclusions of a policy, the exclusions depend on what type of policy you choose, and what provider you go with.

Commonly, however, you won’t be covered for instances where you:

• Break the law;
• Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• Partake in an excluded activity;
• Receive medical treatment for a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed;
• Travel to a ‘Do Not Travel’ destination as outlined by Smarttraveller.

As always, it is essential to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) of your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what you will and won’t be covered for while overseas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Yes, as of April 2024, Australian tourists still need a visa to travel to Vietnam. This visa can be obtained on arrival, or purchased online prior to travel. The visa takes approximately three days to process online, and the cost depends on how long you intend to stay in the country.

Does international travel insurance cover Covid-19?

Many comprehensive travel insurance policies now cover Covid-19, including medical conditions related to Covid-19 or trip cancellations due to a Covid-19 diagnosis. However, it is not guaranteed that all policies will. It’s important to check your policy’s PDS carefully to understand what it will and will not cover in regards to Covid-19 for both you and your travelling companions.

Related: Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

How much does travel insurance cost for Vietnam?

The cost of your travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam will depend on your age, your health, the activities you wish to partake in, and the length of your stay.

For example, for a 34 year old with no pre-existing medical conditions travelling to Vietnam for two weeks, a policy from some of our top choices for comprehensive travel insurance would cost around $130 (based on quotes from Cover-More , 1Cover , and Fast Cover ).

The prices of these quotes would change depending on a chosen excess, cancellation cover, and any additional coverage options you may choose to purchase such as adventure packs or cruise cover.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

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Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally.

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Govt officials refute Australian journalist’s claim of visa extension denial

Avani Dias left the country on April 19

Australian journalist Avani Dias's claim that she was not allowed to stay in India to cover the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the country was called "misleading" by the government officials. 

Dias on Tuesday alleged that she was denied an extension of her visa by the Indian government as her report "crossed a line". She left India on April 19, the Phase 1 polling day in the country. 

However, the official sources said that the South Asia correspondent of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) was found to have violated visa rules while undertaking her professional pursuits. 

According to officials, her previous visa was valid till April 20. On her request, she was assured that her visa would be extended for the coverage of general elections, they added. 

"The contention of Avani Dias, the South Asia Correspondent of Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), that she was not allowed to cover elections and was compelled to leave the country is not correct, misleading and mischievous," a source was quoted by PTI. 

Dias had requested to extend the visa till June-end. However, she chose to leave India even as her extension of visa stood approved, said the officials. 

Coverage of election activities outside of booths is permitted to all Journalist Visa holders, they added.

"Authority letters are required only for access to polling booths and counting stations. This, however, cannot be processed while the visa extension is under process," the source said.

Last week, I had to leave India abruptly. The Modi Government told me my visa extension would be denied, saying my reporting "crossed a line". After Australian Government intervention, I got a mere two-month extension ...less than 24 hours before my flight. 1/2 — Avani Dias (@AvaniDias) April 22, 2024

Meanwhile, Dias said that the decision to allow an extension was made after the Australian government's intervention, but the Indian government would only give her another two months in the country. She also alleged that the visa came through less than 24 hours before she was scheduled to leave. 

Dias in her podcast 'Looking For Modi' said that the Indian government's move was because of her documentary on the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which sparked a diplomatic row between the two nations. 

"The Narendra Modi government has made me feel so uncomfortable that we decided to leave, " she said in her podcast. 

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ABC journalist Avani Dias told routine visa extension would be denied, days after India targeted her work on YouTube

ABC News South Asia bureau chief Avani Dias was told a routine visa extension would be denied by the Indian government, days after it blocked her reporting on YouTube in the country. 

Dias was informed of the decision via a phone call from an official at the Ministry of External Affairs, who said her most recent Foreign Correspondent episode "crossed a line".

The episode covered the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year, which led to a major global dispute after Canada accused Indian government agents of involvement in his murder.

It was blocked on YouTube in India, along with a related news story.

After weeks of lobbying by Australian diplomats and the office of Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, the Indian government finally overturned the decision and renewed the visa for two months  – less than 24 hours before Dias was due to leave the country.

"It felt too difficult to do my job in India. I was struggling to get into public events run by Modi's party, the government wouldn't even give me the passes I need to cover the election and the ministry left it all so late, that we were already packed up and ready to go," Dias said in an episode of her podcast, Looking for Modi .

"It's by design. The Narendra Modi government has made me feel so uncomfortable that we decided to leave."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has cracked down on international media who have reported on the Canadian killing in recent months, ahead of the general election that began on April 19, where he is seeking a third term.

Dias was also told she breached her visa by making a "documentary", despite her and other ABC journalists having filed 30-minute pieces for the program for years without issue. Other outlets make similar-length current affairs programs on the same visa.

During their investigation for the episode, the ABC crew faced pressure from Indian authorities.

They were questioned by Indian criminal intelligence officials about their reporting and were blocked from filming a public event in Punjab.

ABC managing director David Anderson said the broadcaster stood by Dias' reporting.

"The ABC fully backs and stands by the important and impactful reporting by Avani Dias during her time as ABC correspondent in India," he said.

"Avani joins the Four Corners team as a reporter in coming weeks. The ABC believes strongly in the role of independent journalism across the globe, and freedom of the press outside Australia."

Election underway

India has almost a billion registered voters, who started heading to the polls last week, in a rolling election with people in different parts of the country voting at different times over a month.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a rare third term in office, which would see him hold power for 15 years by the conclusion of the term.

Mr Modi and the Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hold a commanding majority of seats in parliament.

Reporters Without Borders has warned "press freedom is in crisis" in India, noting in its most recent report that an average of three or four journalists are killed in connection with their work in the country every year.

Dias will continue to cover the Indian election for ABC News now that she has returned to Australia before joining Four Corners, while her colleague Meghna Bali remains in Delhi.

"There's always a feeling of unease that this sort of backlash could come your way as a journalist in India," Dias said in her podcast.

"I've felt it the whole time I've been here. So have my colleagues from different publications."

Press freedom under pressure

Reports on the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Sikh separatist movement and how other religious minorities are treated have been targeted by takedown orders.

On March 25, YouTube informed the ABC it had received a takedown order from India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) over the upload of Sikhs, Spies and Murder: Investigating India's Alleged Hit on Foreign Soil and a news package on a story about ASIO agents meeting with Sikh activists in Australia regarding Mr Nijjar's death.

YouTube said the specific order was "confidential" but said it came under India's Information Technology Act (2000).

At the time of the YouTube removal, the ABC said it stood by the journalism of the story.

"It was meticulously researched and balanced and sought an array of perspectives, and upholds the highest editorial standards," a spokesperson said in a statement.

"We defend the audience's fundamental right to access this story, regardless of their location."

Earlier in March, the Indian government had YouTube block access to a video by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's Fifth Estate program that featured footage of Mr Nijjar's killing.

CBC said social media company X had also informed it the Indian government had sent a legal removal demand over the story.

"Indian law obligates X to withhold access to this content in India; however, the content remains available elsewhere," X said in an email to the CBC.

"We disagree with this action and maintain that freedom of expression should extend to these posts. Following the Indian legal process, we are in current communication with the Indian authorities."

A BBC documentary examining the role of Mr Modi during 2002 sectarian riots in the western state of Gujarat was also blocked under the legislation.

The Indian Finance Ministry also accused the BBC of tax evasion, with three days of searches in the British broadcaster's Delhi and Mumbai offices last February, just weeks after the BBC documentary aired.

• X (formerly Twitter)
• Broadcasting
• Media Industry
• World Politics

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9. Was Australian journalist ‘forced’ to leave India?

• Avani Dias , the Chief of Bureau of Australia’s state-run news outlet in New Delhi, has stated that she had to leave India ‘abruptly’ after government officials denied her a visa-extension.
• The journalist, who had been working in India since 2022, had produced the documentary about the June 2023 killing in Canada of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar — Sikhs, Spies, and Murder — which India got YouTube to block last month, also alleged that she found it difficult to do her job in the country.
• Canadian PM Justin Trudeau had said there were “credible allegations” that India was involved in the Sikh leader’s shooting, which India dismissed as “absurd”.
• In a post on X on Tuesday, Dias said, “Last week, I had to leave India abruptly. The Modi Government told me my visa extension would be denied, saying my reporting ‘crossed a line’.”
• She claimed that though she was able to secure a two-month visa extension after intervention by the Australian government, it came with less than 24 hours left for her departure.
• She said she was also told that her election accreditation — to cover the ongoing Lok Sabha polls — too would not happen.
• TOI reported, quoting government sources, that the ABC journalist’s contention that she was not allowed to cover elections and compelled to leave the country is “not correct, misleading and mischievous”.
• According to them, Dias was found to have violated visa rules while undertaking her professional pursuits. Despite this, on her request, she was assured that her visa would be extended for coverage of the general elections, they added.
• In February, Vanessa Dougnac, a Delhi-based French journalist, was accused of “malicious” reporting and asked by the MHA to explain why her Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status should not be cancelled.
• She had also left the country, saying she was “being forced to leave by the Government of India”.

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