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Australia Subclass 600 Visa – Complete 2026 Guide (Eligibility, Streams, Requirements & Tips)

Introduction

The Australia Subclass 600 Visa is one of the most sought-after visitor visas for travelers planning to visit Australia for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. Whether you are an Indian traveler planning your first trip, a business professional attending a conference, or a family visitor, this visa is your gateway to Australia.

In this guide, we will cover all streams of the Subclass 600 visa, eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, processing time, application process, and tips for a successful visa application. This is the most detailed, step-by-step guide you’ll find in 2026.

1. What is the Subclass 600 Visa?

The Subclass 600 Visitor Visa is a temporary visa for people who want to visit Australia for a short stay, without the intention to work or settle permanently. This visa is perfect for:

• Tourism and leisure trips

• Visiting friends and family

• Attending conferences, workshops, or business meetings

• Participating in short-term courses (up to 3 months)

Important: You cannot work under this visa, and overstaying can impact your future travel to Australia.

2. Who Can Apply for the Subclass 600 Visa?

You are eligible for this visa if you:

• Have a genuine intention to stay temporarily

• Hold a valid passport

• Can support yourself financially during your stay

• Meet health and character requirements

• Do not intend to work or settle permanently

Tip: Your ties to your home country, such as a job, property, or family, play a crucial role in convincing immigration officers that you will return.

3. Streams of Subclass 600 Visa

The Subclass 600 visa has multiple streams, each designed for specific purposes:

3.1 Tourist Stream

• Purpose: Tourism, holidays, visiting friends/family

• Duration: Up to 12 months (depends on application)

• Eligibility: Must have sufficient funds and clear travel plans

• Note: Short-term courses (up to 3 months) allowed

Example: An Indian family planning a 3-week vacation to Sydney and Melbourne can apply under this stream.

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3.2 Business Visitor Stream

• Purpose: Attend conferences, business meetings, negotiations

• Duration: Typically 3 months

• Restrictions: Cannot perform paid work or offer services to the public

Example: A business executive attending a tech conference in Melbourne for 5 days can apply under this stream.

3.3 Sponsored Family Stream

• Purpose: Visit family members in Australia

• Duration: 3 or 12 months

• Requirements: Your sponsor must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident

• Note: Sponsors may need to provide a security bond

Example: Visiting your sister in Sydney for 2 months while your brother sponsors your stay.

3.4 Approved Destination Status (ADS)

• Purpose: Travel with approved tour groups from China

• Duration: Short-term group visits

• Note: Only applies to Chinese citizens under specific conditions

3.5 Frequent Traveller Stream

• Purpose: For regular visitors from certain countries

• Validity: Multiple entries, up to 10 years

• Stay Per Visit: Typically limited (e.g., 3 months)

Example: A businessperson travelling frequently to Australia for quarterly meetings.

4. Subclass 600 Visa Fees – 2026

5. Processing Time

Processing times depend on the stream, country, and season:

Tip: Apply well in advance (at least 2–3 months before travel) to avoid delays.

6. Required Documents

6.1 Essential Documents

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)

• Completed visa application form

• Travel itinerary

• Proof of funds (bank statements, salary slips)

• Return flight tickets

• Proof of accommodation

• Health/travel insurance

6.2 Additional Documents (Depending on Stream)

• Sponsor documents (for family stream)

• Business letters or conference invites

• Invitation letters from family/friends

• Police clearance or health checks if requested

Pro Tip: Ensure all documents are translated into English and are clear and consistent. Poor-quality documents are a common reason for refusal.

7. Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Create an ImmiAccount on the official website

2. Select the correct stream (Tourist, Business, Family, etc.)

3. Upload all required documents

4. Pay the visa fee online

5. Attend biometrics & health checks (if required)

6. Wait for visa decision

7. Receive visa grant notification

Note: Keep copies of all documents and correspondence for reference.

8. How Long Can You Stay?

• Tourist/Family Stream: 3, 6, or 12 months (depends on approval)

• Frequent Traveller: Multiple entries over years, limited stay per visit

Tip: Each stay is counted from your entry date. Overstaying can affect future visa applications.

9. Conditions of Subclass 600 Visa

• No work permitted

• Must leave Australia before visa expires

• Comply with health and character requirements

• May include Condition 8503 (“No Further Stay”) in some cases

10. Common Reasons for Refusal

• Insufficient proof of funds

• Weak ties to home country

• Incorrect or inconsistent documentation

• Applying under the wrong stream

• Missing or unclear travel plans

11. Tips to Improve Approval Odds

✅ Show strong ties to home country (job, property, family)

✅ Provide detailed travel plans

✅ Include quality financial documents

✅ Provide proof of travel insurance

✅ Respond quickly to any additional requests

✅ Use a licensed migration agent if unsure

12. Extending Your Stay

• Apply for a new visitor visa if current visa is expiring

• Bridging visas may be required if waiting for a decision

• Be careful of Condition 8503 restrictions

13. FAQ – Australia Subclass 600 Visa

Q1: Can I work on a Subclass 600 visa?

No. Paid work is not allowed under any stream.

Q2: Can I study while on Subclass 600?

Yes, short courses up to 3 months are permitted.

Q3: How soon should I apply?

At least 2–3 months before your planned travel.

Q4: Can my family members be included?

Yes, you can include eligible family members in the same application.

Q5: What if my visa is refused?

You can reapply with stronger documentation or appeal through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) if eligible.

14. Expert Tips for a Smooth Application

• Always double-check your application before submission

• Keep your financial statements up to date

• Avoid vague travel plans; include a day-wise itinerary

• Make sure your passport has 6+ months validity

• Maintain honesty and consistency across documents

Conclusion

The Australia Subclass 600 Visa is your gateway to exploring Australia, whether for tourism, business, or family visits. By understanding eligibility, streams, documentation, fees, processing times, and common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application.

With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can enjoy your Australian trip without unnecessary stress.