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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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Australian Tourist Visa Checklist

January 25, 2023

About Visa to Australia

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The Australian Tourist Visa , also known as the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) , is an entry permit issued for foreign citizens who wish to visit Australia for tourism purposes. This visa type allows eligible travelers to attend a sightseeing tour, go on a cruise, participate in cultural festivals, or simply meet with family and friends.

Usually, the Australian Tourist Visa is issued for a period of 3 months. However, in certain circumstances, the permit may remain valid for up to 12 months. Before proceeding with the visa application, it is recommended to make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria.

Apply online for ETA Australia CLICK TO APPLY ONLINE

Documents required for the Australian Tourist Visa

There are a few basic documents that are required while applying for the Australian Tourist Visa (Subclass 600). The criteria include preparing relevant documents verifying your identity and proving your wish to be a genuine visitor in Australia.

Identity documents

The identity documents are necessary to verify your identity while applying for an Australian visa . The most important document is your valid passport which contains all the relevant information, including personal details, passport number, issue date, and expiry date. The travel permit also contains your biometric photo.

Required documents:

-valid passport

-national identity card (if applicable)

-proof of name change (if applicable)

-marriage certificate

-divorce certificate

-name change documents from the relevant authority

Genuine visitor documents

The genuine visitor documents serve as proof of planning only a temporary visit to Australia with no intention of requesting permanent residency. They describe your reasons for traveling but also could be treated as a statement that you will do well abroad.

-description of the purpose behind the travel

-declaration of sufficient funds (bank statements, tax records)

-declaration to return to your home country (from the relevant authority)

-proof of having plans to return to your home country

-proof of pursuing education in your home country

-proof of continuing employment in your home country

-proof of having immediate family members in your home country

-proof of being an owner of major assets in your home country

-letter of invitation (from an Australian friend or relative)

-describing the relationship

-stating the purpose of your visit

-stating the length of your visit

-declaring a will to pay for your visit

Character requirements for the Australian Tourist Visa

It is essential that you are considered of good character if you wish to visit Australia. Details on the character requirements are described in the Migration Act 1958, section 501.

During the visa application process, you may be asked to provide a police certificate, a military certificate, or a letter of good conduct issued by your employer. Sometimes it is also essential to complete the character assessment and character statutory declaration.

Character assessment

You may not meet the character requirements for the Australian Tourist Visa if you:

-have a criminal record

-have been convicted of serious crime

-have been convicted of escaping from immigration detention

-have been a member of a group or organization involved in criminal conduct

-are suspected of engaging in criminal conduct in Australia

-are suspected of inciting discord in the Australian community

-are suspected to be a threat to the Australian community

Health requirements for the Australian Tourist Visa

The general health requirements for the Australian Tourist Visa are:

-to be in good health overall

-to have health insurance covered

Medical examination

You may be asked to undergo additional health examinations . The need to schedule a doctor visit depends on numerous factors, some of which are the length of your journey to Australia or the level of tuberculosis risk in your country.

However, if you have been to a medical examination during the last 12 months before your planned arrival in Australia , you may be exempt from this visa requirement.

It is essential to undergo a medical examination if the travel from your home country to Australia could be considered a threat to public health, with a high risk of polio or EVD.

Requirements concerning the medical examination

The applicants for the Tourist Visa may be required to undergo specific medical examinations (including chest x-ray) if:

-they are pregnant

-they are aged over 75 years

-they had contact with tuberculosis

-they expect to require medical treatment in Australia

Requirements concerning diseases and chronic conditions

To meet the health requirements for the Tourist Visa, you must be free from any disease or chronic condition that:

-may be a significant healthcare service cost to the Australian community

-may be a significant community service cost to the Australian community

-may limit the access of Australian residents to healthcare and community services

Translation of the documents

It is essential that all the necessary documents are originally issued in English or translated to English by a sworn translator. Documents in other languages will not be accepted.

Translators in Australia must be accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters. However, translators outside Australia do not have to be accredited

Requirements for high-risk countries

Citizens of countries that are considered high-risk must meet some additional requirements to be allowed entry to Australia on the Tourist Visa.

Financial details

-bank statements (personal and business) showing consistent savings history

-documents proving good financial status

-documents showing possessed funds or assets

-documents showing taxation for the last 3 years

Moreover, if your friend or relative in Australia will be paying for your visit, you should obtain a Statutory Declaration stating the evidence of their financial capacity to do so.

Employment details

-letter from the employer stating your position and salary, describing the length of employment, and confirming the contact details of the person providing the letter (for employed travelers)

-evidence of business registration (for self-employed travelers)

-evidence of retirement (for retired travelers)

International students who wish to visit Australia on a Tourist Visa should provide evidence of enrolment, such as an official letter from an educational institute.

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Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Step-by-Step Guide

Visa application, processing, and getting are quite hustling for many people. But without a visa, you can hardly cross the border of other countries. And if you’re planning to visit Australia, then you can’t skip the visa processing.

Though Australia is pretty strict about visas, it doesn’t mean it is very hard to get an Australian visitor visa . Even I would say the Australian visa processing is much easier than any other country as the whole process takes place online. 

So, you can apply from your home. All you need is a phone or computer and a strong internet connection.

If you’re a first-time traveller and you intend to visit Australia as a genuine visitor, you should apply for an Australian visitor visa (subclass 600) . Also, if your Australian ETA (601) been refused and asked to apply Subclass 600 instead subclass 601 the follow this article.

Here in this article, I will give you a step-by-step guideline of how to apply for a visitor visa and some DOs and DON’Ts that you should follow if you don’t want your visa to be denied.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Understanding Australia visitor visa Subclass 600

What is australian visitor visa (subclass 600).

An Australian visitor visa (Subclass 600) is a short time visit visa that will allow you to enter Australia for less than three months. This visa allows you to enter and stay in Australia for an allotted amount of time, with you being responsible for abiding by the rules and regulations associated with it.

Visitor visa (Subclass 600) has nearly six streams, but the two main streams are the Tourist stream and the Business stream . The visa validation, cost, and time processing depend on these streams.

Tourist Stream

Travellers looking to visit Australia should apply for a tourist stream visa. This visa is typically used by visitors who are going to Australia for leisure, medical treatment, visiting family or friends, and even completing short-term study or training activities lasting less than 3 months.

Business Stream

The Business Visitor Stream visa is for those travelling to Australia for business-related activities, such as attending a conference, training or seminars. Non-work-related activities such as networking and making sales enquiries are also allowed. It is important to note that this visa does not allow recipients to provide their services in the country while they are here.

Requirements for Australian visitor visa

Here I have listed some required and recommended information and documents that you may need to apply for the Australian visitor visa.

1. Online application form

Applying for a visa to enter, travel and stay in Australia just got simpler. Those looking to apply now can go online to complete the entire process, making it that much faster and more convenient! So, you can apply for your visa at your home without any hustle.

You have to fill up a 19-page application form that you will get after creating an ImmiAccount on the official immigration website of the Australian government. Get more details about the application form in the “how to apply for an Australian visitor visa (subclass 600) online” below.

2. A Valid Passport

When applying for an Australian visa, it is necessary to provide a valid passport as part of the application documentation. This is essential for the Australian government to consider and process visa requests. You have to scan your passport and then attach the file with the application form. The scanned copy should be clear and transparent. Otherwise, your visa can be rejected.

3. Recent passport size photos

As you have to provide all information through an online process, you must submit a soft copy of every document, including your photo and passport. You must attach a coloured passport-size photo to the required section of your application form. The photo must be clear and vivid.

4. National identity cards (if Have)

National identity cards are not mandatory for all applicants. But if you have, you must submit it. And if you’re under 18 and you don’t have your national identity card, then you can provide your birth certificate or other documents as evidence of your identity.

5. Proof of financial status

Proof of financial status is crucial for an Australian visitor visa, proving that you have enough funds in your bank account to support your stay and leave in Australia. To prove your financial status and you have enough funds, you need the following documents:

Your bank statement of at least three months period (if you’re carrying your trip expense).  Tax Return Your pay slips. Term deposits Audited accounts Credit card statement (if have)

Note: If someone is sponsoring your Australia trip, you may have to apply for a Sponsored family stream visa. Usually, your family member can sponsor your trip under this visa who has Australian citizenship or permanent resident, and your sponsor might be asked to pay a security bond.

6. travel itineries

A travel itinerary is a very important information that you must attach to your application form. In this travel itinerary, you have to include your day-to-day plans like places to visit and things to do during your vacation. And also mention the date, time, and your accommodation. Here is a sample copy of the travel itinerary . You only can submit a pdf copy of your travel itinerary.

Note: Travel itinerary is mandatory ONLY for those you are applying for the Tourist stream .

7. A cover letter

A cover letter is surely optional, but it can help you to get the visa smoothly. Because the whole process of applying and getting the Austria visitor visa would be online, there is no interview where you can explain your travel plans and purpose.

So, it is better to submit a cover letter that will explain your travel reason and travel plans. But of course, your cover letter must support every information that you have already submitted for the visa application.

8. Travel health insurance

Travel health insurance is also optional, like the cover letter, but it helps a lot to get the visa, and at the same time, the insurance is helpful during your stay in Australia. For example, if you have a medical emergency during your stay or your flight has been cancelled, you will get immediate financial support from the insurance company. So, travel insurance is required for your own sake and the visa authority also gets assurance that you can carry any medical emergency if needed.

9. Proof of employment status

With your visa application, you also need to submit evidence of your employment status. 

For employee

• NOC or Non-Objection Certificate
• A letter that explains your role in the company
• Income tax document

For Self-Employed or business owners

• Business licence
• A finance sheet that explains profits and losses

For Students

• Students need to show their enrolment certificate of the particular school or university.
• A non-objection letter from the specific school or university.

10. Application Fees

If you’re applying from outside Australia, then the tourist stream will cost you AUD 190.00 . And the cost is also the same for a business stream visa. You can pay the visa fee through your credit card, debit card, UnionPay, PayPal, and BPAY.

11. Additional Information

A Flight itinerary that will show Australia entering and exiting dates. And without buying an actual flight ticket, you can reserve your roundtrip flight which is also refundable in case your visa gets rejected.

An invitation letter from your family or friends if you’re staying with them in Australia. The letter should state your relationship with them, the reason for your trip, and so on. 

Provide evidence of your previous travel (if you have). It may help you to get the visa smoothly.

A marriage license (if have) or a divorce certificate (if have).

Any property paper or house paper that you own in your home country.

Note: If any of this information is not in English, you’re highly recommended to translate them into English and then submit them.

Important Notes:

You don’t have to submit all the documents as some are required, and some are recommended. But it is better to submit as many as possible, which will increase the possibility of getting the visa. And remember your passport and photo are mandatory that you can’t skip. As you know, all your files have to be submitted through an online process. So, you have to make them either a jpg, PNG, BMP, or PDF file to submit. And no zip files or encrypted pdf files are acceptable. Don’t make your file size more than 5MB, as larger size files are not acceptable. If you have files that are bigger than 5MB, make sure you reduce the size and then upload them.

How to Apply for an Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Online?

Obtaining a visa to visit Australia is straightforward if you have the right information and documents. A simple guide can help make the process simpler and stress-free. Here I have explained how to apply for an Australian visitor visa in four easy steps. Also, you can watch my video in above.

1. Create an ImmiAccount

Creating an ImmiAccount is the most simple and crucial part of an Australian visitor visa application. Without having the ImmiAccount, you can’t get the application form, and you have to create it from immi.gov.au , which is the official immigration website of the Australian government.

Here you will get two steps to create the account. You need to fill up your family name, phone number, and, most importantly, an active email address at the first step. In comparison, the second step requires setting a password and some questions about you. Click here to create your ImmiAccount .

2. Fill up the application form

After registering for the ImmiAccount, you will receive an email to get access to the account. Now you just have to do the following steps.

First, log in to your account and click the “ New application ” option.  Then you have to choose the visa type. If you’re a genuine tourist, select the “ visitor ” option and then “ visitor visa (600) “. Now you have a 19-page application form which you must fill up carefully and correctly. Don’t give any wrong information that may cause your visa denial. 

In these three simple steps, you can accomplish your visitor visa application form. And in case you cannot fill up your application form right then, you can always save it and edit it later. Moreover, you don’t have to print the form. Just fill-up the form and submit it. But be sure you have given all the correct information before submitting it.

3. Attach relevant documents

At this point, you have to submit all the required and recommended documents that we have mentioned before. On your application dashboard, you will have an option where you can upload all your files. Make sure you submit as many files as possible and make them less than 5MB before submitting them.

Now it’s time to submit your application form and then receive an Application Receipt via email.

Note: Remember, after submitting your application form, you cannot edit it anymore. So do double check before submitting.

4. Pay the visa fees

Now the last step is payment. The tourist stream visa fee is AUD 190.00 , and you also need to pay it online through a Credit card, debit card, UnionPay, or PayPal. 

5. Make an Appointment for Biometrics

After submitting the application, create an account with VFS Global for biometric enrollment. You should have already received an email from Home Affairs regarding this, which includes an attachment stating the requirement to provide personal identifiers (biometrics) for the purposes of Section 40 of the Migration Act 1958 in relation to your Visitor (Tourist) (subclass 600) visa application.Please use your application number to schedule an appointment with VFS.

What is the Processing Time? 

No one can predict the visa processing time as it is based on circumstances and the age of application finalisation. My visa processing time took nearly two years because I applied in February 2020 before the COVID-19 outbreak and the border was closed. I have received my visa confirmation email in March 2022.

But don’t be scared! Now the border has reopened for all visitors, and the processing time may take a few weeks. So don’t be so hopeless, just wait patiently as I did.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Is Australia issuing visitor visa now?

Australia does issue visitor visas, and I have personally traveled to the country using one.

How do I get a tourist visa for Australia?

Follow the step above or to apply for an Australian tourist visa, you will need to complete an online application form, provide supporting documents such as your passport and proof of funds, and pay the application fees.

How long can I stay in Australia on visitor visa?

The length of stay for a visitor visa in Australia can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. Generally, a visitor visa allows for stays of up to 3, 6, or 12 months. It is important to check the specific details of your visa to determine your maximum length of stay.

How much is a 3-month tourist visa to Australia?

The cost of a 3-month tourist visa to Australia varies depending on the applicant’s country of origin. For example, the fee for a US citizen is AUD $140, while the fee for a citizen of India is AUD $145. It’s important to note that additional fees may apply, such as health assessments or biometrics.

What is the visa validity time?

The visa validation depends on your travel itinerary and your nationality. Australian family visitor visa is generally granted for a period of 12 months. But normally, the Australian border agency will decide entry validity. In most cases it will be 3 months per entry.

Do I need to submit a flight itinerary and proof of accommodation?

It is not compulsory to submit a flight itinerary and proof of accommodation. But if you can manage a roundtrip flight ticket and book a staycation with a refund policy, it is better to submit these documents as they increase the chance of your visa approval. My suggestion is must do submit proof of accommodations including flight reservation.

How early should I apply for an Australian visitor visa?

It also depends on your travel itinerary, but you should apply at least six months before your planned trip. Since there is a huge backlog, submit your application as early as possible.

How much bank balance do I need for the approval of my visa? 

It is hard to say any exact number that you need to have in your bank account. Because it depends on many factors like how many days you’re intended to stay in Australia, your accommodation cost, your daily cost, etc. Make sure you have enough funds in your bank account so that you can maintain your stay and leave. With my personal experience, Australia is a very expensive place for many including myself. If you have pre-booked (paid) accommodations and purchased flight tickets, then i think at least A$ 200 per day.

What can be the possible reasons for an application denial?

Your visa can be denied, refused or rejected for many different reasons. But the most primary and possible reasons are the following: If you submit wrong information or unclear information. If you fail to prove that you have no intension to overstay in Australia. If your travel purpose is ambiguous. If you fail to prove that you or your sponsor has enough funds to support your trip. Weak travel history Not enough funds Fake or misleading information Not telling truth about previous visa application refused from other countries, namely from UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand etc.

If you face any problems or wants further to discuss regarding any questions about the visitor visa (subclass 600), let me know in the comment section or use our contact us form to assist you further or join our telegram helpline . For Malaysian who are facing problem with your ETA (601) can use the same form too. I will try my best to help you.

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Having navigated the Australian visa process myself, I can attest to its relative simplicity, especially with the online application system. If you’re considering a visit Down Under, opting for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is a wise choice. And if you ever need assistance or guidance along the way, Gold migration lawyers are there to lend a helping hand.

Can I apply Australia visit visa subclass 600 without travel history?. Because I never visit any country.

@Ashrafur Rahman. Of course, you can apply Australian visitor visa sub class 600 without any travel history.

i applied for a tourist visa in April 2023, but they refused. The status is

The applicant claims to be employed with xxxxx Electrical as Site engineer. Documents provided in support of the application include travel details, employment, financial and income documents along with inviter’s documents. In assessing these criteria, I have taken into account the information provided by the applicant in their visa application form and the supporting documents. I find that the information provided is not sufficient to satisfy me of their genuine temporary stay intention, and the applicant has not demonstrated that they have sufficiently strong commitments in India that would be an incentive for them to return to India

now can i re apply for visa

You can re-apply but I think better to get professional guidance. There should be more evidence to return to India.

This was a great and interesting article to read. I have really enjoyed all of this very cool and fun information. Thanks

Hi, I have submitted my application and paid for it, also I have done the biometrics. Status shows further assessment and i want to upload some more documents as well. Can I still upload it?

@Mandy Yes, if you need to upload more documents, you can do so easily via your ImmiAccount. Just log in to your dashboard and follow the directions to attach the relevant documents.

My wife is on work visa in australia and she had applied for tourist visa for me on my behalf but visa got refused due to insufficient document like my income detail. Just wanted to know: 1. If i can apply again from my side and if it is mandatory to mention in the online form regarding my first visa refusal or if it is ok without mentioning. 2. Also just wanted to know the list of mandatory documents required to upload along with the recommended documents.. What if I don’t have recommended documents.. 3. Since my wife is on work visa, can she sponsor me ?if yes, what all documents is required apart from invitation letter from my wife?

Hi Prashant. Your first question answer is you must need to tell them about your previous visa refusal even if it was not for Australia. Also, could you please share a bit more privately? Using our contact us page .

I have applied my Visitor Visa Subclass 600 on Dec 25th 2022 and still the application status is stuck at ”Further Assessment”. I have provided all requested documents = total is 23 docs uploaded to the immi account.

Any idea when I will be able to get the Visa grant letter for my application.

Appreciate your help

@Rahul Jonathan The timing for when you will receive your Australian visa grant letter, or any other related documents is dependent on many factors such as demographics and recent trends in applications. While the processing time may vary, it is advisable to wait for at least the designated processing period before reaching out to the authorities regarding an inquiry on your visa status. Best of luck!

Hi, I can’t seem to find the sample copy of the travel itinerary. Can you pls attach it as the hyperlink doesn’t seem to be working

The sample itinerary was added already. Thank you

My Wife and I is in the midst of processing the ETA to go to Australia. We have been rejected once before so I wonder if it’s still advisable to pursue the same path or go with subclass 600? though the first time we did not have our flights booked.

FYI our intention is so that my wife could attend her exam on 16 December 2022 at Brisbane, additionally, we’ll be visiting our relatives in the same city as well. from your article, you mentioned that an invitation letter from our relatives might further strengthen our application. May I please have a copy or a sample of such letter?

I am sorry to hear that you have been rejected once before. While it is not impossible for you and your wife to be approved again, it is still a challenge.

In your case, I would advise you to pursue ETA visa rather than a subclass 600. This is because the ETA visa does not require an invitation letter from your relative in Australia. However, if you choose the subclass 600 route, then I would suggest that you contact our office so that we can write an invitation letter for you and attach it to your application when we lodge it on your behalf.

What should I put in section where it asked for other travel documents? Will this include my expired passport and used/existing visas from other countries?

Do you have any other passports? Or you are a dual citizen? If not a dual citizen please include all your last 5 years travel histories. If you are Malaysian just use their ETA apps.

Do We Need to Upload Certified/ Notarised copies of New and Old Passport all pages?

Hi, you no need to notarized all passport pages. If you have good travel history on your old and new passport then combine all those pages and upload it together with other documents.

Hi, I am in South Australia on a student visa. My wife sister is a citizen here and she applied visitor visa for my wife on 9th June, 2022, but its still not approved. Could you please let me know why this visa is taking so long? Will my student visa affect their visitor visa?

Some nationality get longer waiting time then others. You are already there legally on a student visa so I don’t think your wife application will have anything with your current student visa.

have your wife got the visa now?

Hello, I have submitted my visitors visa application last June 19,2022 and the status is for further assessment. What does it mean? How woud I know if there’s incorrect upload of the required attachment, do they email me about it? I am just confused because under actions of my immi account it says Attached documents and health assessment. when I click on health assement it says no further examination required. on attached documemts it says further assessment. This is my second application. my first application was in 2019 and took only 10 days to receive the grant notification. Im considering the delay might due to backlogs. Appreciate your feedback

Hello there, health assement not required for tourists. The Department of Home Affairs will make further assessment on your visa application. You will be informed of this in writing by the Department and be given the opportunity to provide additional information or documents as part of this process. I am agree with you that delay might be the reason of huge backlogs. And regarding incorrect uploads, The answer is, you don’t need to upload any more documents as they are already there unless you received any email for additional documents. Please do Re-check all your uploaded documents one more time. Thank you and wish you good luck on your visa application

With regard to submission of documents not in English should I provide both original and translated documents.

Hi there. Submit only translated copy but make sure do the translation from authorized by them. I submitted only translated copy and keep the original with me. Hope this helps

Hi,what is the processing time now for visitors visa subclass 600 now? Rgds

At least 30 days+ depending your location and passport you are holding. Some gets faster than others.

I have uploaded documents ie 78 which is more than the maximum limit of 60. I have uploaded the same document in parts in my 600 Australia sponsor family visa. What should I do know?

Hi, did they asked you to submit anymore documents? If not then just wait or you may just send them an email to ask your status. Family sponsored visa usually gets approved just wait and let me know if you get your visa.

hello i applied for sub 600 tourist visa on 25th may. before the outbreak i receieved a grant but wasnt able to travel. i re- applied and they didnt want visa money because of previous grant. it says i should get visa in 26 or 37 days max is this true. thank you

They are refunding those who are withdraw their application. In your case i didn’t exactly understand what they mean to giving you visa 26 or 37 days. Usually Australian visa Sub class 600 comes one or two years validity.

Hi, can the Australian border force approve a 600 visa?

Yes. subclass 600 are now issuing as usual.

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Latest Documents Checklist for Tourist Visa Australia (Subclass 600)

Table of Contents

Checklist of documents for Tourist Visa (Subclass 600)

The following documents are needed by an applicant to apply for an Australian subclass 600 visitor visa, also commonly known as a tourist visa in the tourist stream.

Subclass 600 Visa Checklist

• An applicant for a tourist visa needs their travel document i.e Passport of their country. It is very important to make sure that your passport has more than 6 months of expiry since most airlines will not let you travel with less than 6-month passport expiry.
• If you have passports of multiple countries, you will need to upload all copies of these passports for your visa 600 application.
• A tourist visa applicant also needs to provide a copy of their National ID. These details are also required in the application. If you don’t have any National ID for your home country, you need to provide a reason in your visitor visa application.
• Applicants for subclass 600 visa need to provide a passport size photo as per the requirements of the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
• An applicant needs to satisfy character criteria for subclass 600 visitor visa. As a department policy, only the visa 600 applicants who are 17 years or older are required to provide police clearance if their cumulative stay will exceed 12 months. In this case police clearance from the home country and any other country in which the applicant has lived for more than 12 months cumulatively will be required.
• Even if in the other cases no police clearance is required as per department policy, the Australian Department of Home Affairs may request a police clearance if they have any character concerns of the subclass 600 visitor visa applicant.
• If you are employed in your home country, attach a letter from the employer approving your holidays. This shows your genuine intention to return to your home country.
• If you are currently studying, attach a letter from your school, college or university confirming your enrolment in their institution and the approval for your holidays to travel to Australia.
• While a tourist visa holder does not need to submit health insurance documents at the time of their visitor visa application, they are required to have adequate health insurance as part of their subclass 600 visitor visa condition. 

To check if you have adequate health cover please click on the following link.

Adequate Health Insurance for Visitor Visa and Student Visa Australia

•  Applicants of 600 visa needs to provide evidence of funds that they can support themselves. Examples are:
• Bank Statements
• Bank statements of sponsor

The evidence of funds should be genuine and long-accumulated funds are given more weight for purpose of genuine intention to travel to Australia for temporary basis.

• Visa Medical examinations
•  An invitation letter from your Australian relative inviting you to visit them in Australia. If they are offering support such as accommodation, travel costs, living costa and other associated costs of your stay, it should be mentioned in the invitation letter.
• In case the Australian relative or family member is offering support, they should provide bank statements, pay slips, tax returns etc.
• Identity document such as an Australian passport or Australian PR grant letter should be attached of Australian relative who is inviting you.
• Other identity such as PAN card in case of Indian applicants can be attached.
• For applicants under 18 years of age, Form 1229 will be required.
• Family Book and birth certificates may be attached.
• To demonstrate that an applicant for a visitor visa subclass 600 is a genuine temporary visitor, applicant should demonstrate as much financial and family ties in their home country.

The following documents should be attached to demonstrate financial condition of the applicant overseas. In case of young applicants, it becomes even more important to provide as much evidence in the form of documents to demonstrate financial condition and capacity overseas.

• Bank statements demonstrating that the savings have been accumulated over a period.
• Bank statements should be personal not of company.
• Tax returns for 2 to 3 years.
• Bank deposits
• Property Valuation Reports

You may want to look at the article for reasons of high refusals of tourist visa from applicants from India and other developing countries.

Disclaimer: The above information is not tailored to personal circumstances. For information relevant to personal circumstances, please book an appointment with Oracle Immigration Consultant’s expert migration agents in Australia.

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

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The Detailed Guide to Australia Tourist Visa Document Checklist

Are you planning an exciting trip, a relaxing vacation, or a cherished family visit to Australia? Then careful research on the Australia tourist visa document checklist (subclass 600) is an essential step.

Where to apply and what to prepare are probably two major concerns for visa applicants. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining this visa, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

What does a tourist visa application need?

Here’s the document checklist for an Australia tourist visa application :

Personal documents

• ● Valid passport
• ● Stamped visa or immigration stamp pages of countries you have visited.
• ● Passport-sized photo (4 x 6) with a white background, shot within 6 months.
• ● Details of relatives form
• ● Birth certificate
• ● Identity card
• ● Household registration book

Genuine visitor documents

For traveling purposes:

• ● Details of hotel bookings or address of accommodation in Australia
• ● Detailed Australia travel itinerary: activities, places, time, etc.
• ● Proof of prior overseas travels: photos, tourist visa for the U.S. , Korea, Japan, etc.

For business trips:

• ● Conference invitation
• ● Letter of invitation from organizations or companies in Australia
• ● Clear itinerary with contact details of business partners
• ● Degrees and certificates to substantiate the applicant’s profession
• ● Proofs of transactions made with business partners in Australia

For family visiting purposes:

• ● Invitation letter from family members or relatives
• ● Proof of relationship with family members in Australia: marriage certificate , letters , photos, household registration book, etc.
• ● Financial statement of your relative in Australia if they are paying for your visit: payrolls, bank statements, financial reports, etc.
• ● Passport or driving license of the relative whom you are visiting in Australia

For education purposes within 3 months:

• ● Letter of short-term course confirmation
• ● Details of the course

Evidence of departing intention from Australia after the trip

• ● Roundtrip flight or flight to another country booking details 
• ● Occupation information: Position, salary, company’s contact detail
• ● Leave of absence letter with signature and stamp of your employer.
• ● Documents showing ties to your home country: business license, marriage certificate, insurance policy, will, and land ownership documents.  

Financial statement

• ● Recent bank statements
• ● Credit card statements reflecting the current balance
• ● Financial statement of your sponsor
• ● Land ownership documents

Documents for under 18 applicants

If the applicant is under 18 and plans to visit Australia without the supervision of parents or guardians, s/he must provide these documents:

• ● Letter of permission for the applicant to visit Australia with the signature of a parent or a legitimate guardian verified by the local government.
• ● Identification card or passport of a parent or legitimate guardian.

For more details, check out our comprehensive guide on Australia visitor visa for child .

Where to submit online Australian tourist visas?

Since 30 March 2021, all applications for Australian tourist visas have been submitted online through the official website of the Australia Home Affairs Department . You need to prepare documents thoroughly and log in to this website to apply, make payments, and wait for visa decisions.

The steps to apply for an Australian tourist visa

Below is the step-by-step guide to applying for an Australian tourist visa . In general, this process is rather streamlined and the online application further saves the applicants time and traveling costs.

• ● Step 1: Sign in to your ImmiAccount or sign up if you don’t already have one.
• ● Step 2: Fill in the form and upload all the required documents.
• ● Step 3: Pay the visa application fee through credit cards, PayPal, BPAY, or UnionPay.
• ● Step 4: Wait for the application adjustment notice (if applicable) and the visa decision.

Important note:  As part of the Australian tourist visa application process (subclass 600), you may be requested to complete biometric data collection. If required, you will receive instructions on scheduling an appointment at an authorized Australia Visa Application Centre (managed by VFS Global) for fingerprint scans and a digital photograph.

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Important considerations for preparing an Australian tourist visa application

• ● Consideration of Australian tourist visa processing time ( 8 -25 days ) when starting your application to avoid delayed departure.
• ● Thorough document preparation as per the government guidelines. Otherwise, your application might be rejected.
• ● Only accurate and truthful information for visa applications. Any misrepresentation can lead to serious consequences, including fines and a permanent ban on entering Australia.
• ● For online document submission, scan and upload original documents in colors.
• ● Certified translation for documents that are not in English

Does the application for an Australian tourist visa require translation?

In response to the demand of the Australian Home Affairs Department, all Vietnamese documentation needs attached certified translations in English. Besides, the translated version needs to include the following information about the English translation service provider:

• ● Full name
• ● Phone number or contact information
• ● Relevant degrees of the translator
• ● Stamp of the translation company

Translating Australian tourist visa applications necessitates utmost accuracy, given its direct impact on both legal compliance and the success of visa applications. Consider engaging a reputable translation company for a seamless visa application and a successful trip. 

Avoid application delays and ensure a smooth process! Thao & Co. provides expert translation services for your Australian tourist visa application documents. With years of experience in visa application translation , we guarantee the best client experience: 

• ● Enjoy speedy translations with a guaranteed 48-hour turnaround for standard documents.
• ● Our linguists ensure your message is conveyed accurately, adhering to legal terminology and maintaining the original format.
• ● The translation is done by expert linguists majoring in English and holding English certificates required by the Australian Consulate.
• ● Thao & Co. provides our free Certificate of Translation Accuracy for all certified translation projects and assists clients with translation notarization and legalization for a small fee. 
• ● Our proprietary platform simplifies the process of file submission and file handover, empowering you to track the project progress easily with high confidentiality. 

Thao & Co. empowers you to navigate the Australia tourist visa application process with confidence. We provide clear resources and expert translation services to ensure your application is complete and accurate. 

Need certified and notarized translations for your Australia tourist visa documents?

Visit our Get a Quote page and provide your details. Our consultant will contact you to discuss a personalized solution and provide a competitive quote.

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.

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

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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