Australia

Australia Tourist Visa Requirements

The Visitor Visa Subclass 600 is a temporary visa for individuals who wish to visit Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or for business purposes (non-work-related). It allows for a stay of up to 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the applicant’s situation and the Department of Home Affairs’ decision.

 

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Subclass 600 visa, you must:

• Intend to visit Australia temporarily for tourism or to visit family/friends.
• Have enough funds to cover your stay and return.
• Show genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention — i.e., proof that you’ll return home.

 

📄 Documents Required

The document list may vary by country, but generally includes:

1. Passport (valid at least 6 months)
2. Completed application form (Form 1419)
3. Photographs (recent, passport-sized)
4. Proof of funds – bank statements, pay slips, tax documents
5. Travel itinerary – flight reservations, hotel bookings
6. Cover letter – reason for visiting Australia
7. Proof of ties to home country – job letter, family documents, lease/property ownership
8. Invitation letter – if visiting family/friends
9. Character documents – police clearance if requested
10. Health insurance – recommended but not mandatory

 

How to Apply for Australia Tourist Visa (2025)

✅ Step-by-step Process

Step 1: Create an Immi Account

Go to the Department of Home Affairs website and create your Immi Account.

 

Step 2: Choose Visa Subclass 600

Select “Visitor Visa – Subclass 600” and choose the relevant stream: Tourist, Sponsored Family, or Business Visitor.

 

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

Enter personal, financial, travel, and employment details carefully.

 

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Ensure all documents are clear, translated (if needed), and in the accepted format (PDF, JPG, etc.).

 

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

The base application charge is AUD $200 (can vary by stream).

 

Step 6: Biometrics & Health Check

If requested, attend biometrics or medical exams at authorized centers.

 

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Most applicants receive a decision within 15–30 working days, though processing times can vary.

 

💰 Visa Fees (2025)

• Tourist Stream (apply outside Australia): AUD $200
• Sponsored Family Stream: AUD $200
• Business Visitor Stream: AUD $200

 

Additional costs may include biometrics, health checks, and translation services.

 

✅ Dos for Australia Tourist Visa

1. Do submit genuine and accurate information.

Ensure every detail matches across documents and the application.

2. Do show strong financial capacity.

Show evidence of at least AUD $1,000–$1,500 per month per person.

3. Do write a clear and concise cover letter.

Mention your purpose, travel plans, funding, and intent to return.

4. Do include evidence of home ties.

Employment letters, property ownership, or family responsibilities help support your application.

5. Do purchase travel insurance.

It’s not mandatory but helps in emergencies and strengthens your case.

6. Do keep a clean travel record.

Previous successful visa approvals help your case.

❌ Don’ts for Australia Tourist Visa

1. Don’t submit fake or incomplete documents.

This can result in visa rejection or a 3–10 year ban.

2. Don’t overstay your visa.

Overstaying can affect future visa applications for Australia and other countries.

3. Don’t hide past visa refusals.

The Department of Home Affairs can access international visa history. Always disclose truthfully.

4. Don’t assume it’s an easy visa.

Australia has a strict visa policy. Prepare your application professionally.

5. Don’t book non-refundable flights before visa approval.

Always wait for the visa grant notice.

 

⏱️ Processing Time for Subclass 600 (2025)

 

Processing time varies depending on the stream:

• Tourist Stream (outside Australia): 75% in 20–25 days, 90% in 35–40 days
• Sponsored Family Stream: 50% in 30–40 days
• Business Visitor Stream: Usually within 15–25 days

🔁 Multiple Entry vs Single Entry

Many Sub class 600 visas are multiple-entry, especially for frequent travelers. However, some applicants may receive single-entry visas based on risk assessment.

 

❓ FAQs – Australia Tourist Visa (Subclass 600)

 

Q1: How long can I stay in Australia on this visa?

You can stay for up to 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on your visa grant. The standard is 3 months.

 

Q2: Can I extend my tourist visa while in Australia?

Yes, you can apply for a new Subclass 600 visa from within Australia, but approval is not guaranteed.

 

Q3: Do I need an invitation letter?

It’s not mandatory, but helpful if visiting family or friends. It should include your host’s details, ID, address, and relationship.

 

Q4: What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement?

GTE is a written statement showing that you’re visiting temporarily and plan to return home after your visit.

 

Q5: Can I reapply if my visa is refused?

Yes, you can reapply anytime, especially after correcting the reasons for refusal.

 

Q6: Do I need to show return flight tickets?

Not compulsory but highly recommended to show you plan to return home.

 

Q7: Is there an interview for Subclass 600?

Not usually. But you may be contacted by the visa officer for clarification.