Comprehensive Guide to Australia Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa – Subclass 600)
Thinking of visiting the beautiful country of Australia? It’s absolutely a great place to give a visit. So without further delay, let’s get your tourist visa guidelines sorted!
Note: These guidelines are subject to change, and it is advised to contact the official authorities too!
The Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is kind of ideal for tourism, family visits, or short-term business activities. It allows stays of 3, 6, or 12 months. This duration is based on your application and purpose. Nationals from some countries may instead qualify for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor Visa for mini stays of up to 3 months.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. See Your Visa Type
Choose the appropriate visa based on your nationality and your reason for travelling:
- Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): Open to all nationalities; allows longer stays of up to 12 months.
- eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651): Free visa for nationals of 30+ European countries; valid for 3 months per visit.
- Electronic Travel Authority (ETA Subclass 601): Available to citizens of eligible countries; apply via the ETA app.
2. Create an ImmiAccount
Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs and register for an ImmiAccount. This platform is super important for submitting applications. It’s also helpful for uploading documents and tracking application status.
3. Prepare Required Documents
Ensure you have the following:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.
- Photos: Passport-sized photos meeting Australian specifics.
- Travel Documents: Proof of travel plans, including a back-to-home ticket.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or sponsorship letters showing AUD 5,000+ for those hefty expenses you might make.
- Health Insurance: Recommended but not mandatory.
- Ties to Home Country: Employment proof, property documents, or family connections to ensure return after your visit.
4. Complete the Online Application
- Log into your ImmiAccount, and select “Visitor Visa (Subclass 600),.” Then fill in the 19-page form carefully.
- Upload all supporting documents as PDFs or JPGs under 5MB each (you might have to compress them).
5. Pay Visa Fees
Visa fees are AUD 190. Payments can be made via credit/debit cards or online payment methods too! Biometrics collection (if required) may cost an extra AUD 85.
6. Submit Biometrics (If Required)
Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Application Support Centre (ASC) to give your fingerprints and photographs. You’ll receive an email if this step is needed.
7. Wait for Processing
- Processing times vary:
- Tourist Stream (outside Australia): 25–50 days.
- eVisitor and ETA: Processed within 1–3 days.
8. Receive Your Visa
Approved visas are electronically linked to your passport. You’ll be notified via email. Make it a point that all details (dates, conditions) are totally correct before travel.
Fees and Validity
Visa Type | Fee (AUD) | Validity |
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) | 190 | 3, 6, or 12 months per visit |
eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) | Free | 3 months within 12 months |
Electronic Travel Authority | 20 | 3 months within 12 months |
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Early: Submit your application at least 2–3 months in advance.
- Provide Strong Ties: Show evidence of your being employed, family or property to make your application rejection-proof, and your dreams of visit damage-proof.
- Double-Check Documents: Ensure translations (if required) are certified, and all documents are uploaded correctly.
Contact us to get all your visa preparation done without any hassle!