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What is a Visitor Visa?

A visitor visa is used by foreign nationals who wish to visit Australia for short periods of time for tourism, or any of the reasons below:

  • Tourism and sightseeing

  • Visiting family or friends

  • Business activities, such as attending a conference or an exploratory business meeting

  • To obtain medical treatment or go to a consultation

The base application charge for this visa ranges from AUD135 to AUD340.

If you hold a certain passport, you might be able to apply for a free or cheaper visa.

The eVisitor (subclass 651) visa is free. You must be a passport holder of a certain country.

The Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) visa has an AUD20 service charge. You must be a passport holder of a certain country.

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Who should apply for a Visitor visa?

If you would like to travel to Australia and your passport is not issued by a country eligible for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) you may be required to obtain a visa to travel to Australia. You may also be required to obtain a visa if you plan to visit Australia for longer than 3 months.

Can I work or study on a Visitor Visa (subclass 600)?

Paid work is not allowed under the Visitor visa, though voluntary work may be permitted. You cannot enroll in study courses that are longer than three months. That means you might be able to take some courses but if you would like to enroll in longer courses through a school or university, you need to apply for a student visa.

How long can I stay in Australia?

This depends on the type of visa you are issued. Visas may be single or multiple entry and they may be issued for periods of three, six or 12 months.

Documents required for Australian tourist visa


Identity documents
Provide the pages of your current passport showing your photo, personal details and passport issue and expiry dates.

Also provide:

  • a national identity card, if you have one

  • proof of change of name, if applicable, such as:

    • a marriage or divorce certificate

    • change of name documents from an Australian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, or the relevant overseas authority

    • documents that show other names you have been known by

 

Genuine visitor documents
Provide as much proof as you can to show you are visiting Australia as a temporary visitor only. This could include:

  • proof you have enough money for your stay and to leave Australia, such as personal bank statements, pay slips, audited accounts, tax records or credit card limit.

  • a letter from your relative or friend in Australia, inviting you to visit. The letter could state:

    • their relationship to you

    • the purpose of your visit and length of stay

    • if you will be staying with them

    • If this person will be paying for your stay, provide proof of their funds.

  • your plans while in Australia

  • Proof that you have reasons to return home


Character documents
Provide any military service record or discharge papers, if applicable.

Additional documents for parents requesting a longer visa
Parents and step-parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents who are requesting a visa that is valid for more than 12 months should provide us with a letter stating:

  • you are a parent or step-parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen

  • you want to apply for a longer visa

Triumphal Legal & Migration is an independent migration firm which is not associated in any way with the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHA). Information on this website does not constitute personal migration advice. For an appraisal of your unique personal situation, please call and talk to one of our Registered Migration Agents or Immigration Lawyers, who are all bound by the MARA Code of Conduct.

Copyright © 2022 by Link Journey (Australia) Pty Ltd

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