Australia Tourist Visa
If you’re planning a trip to Australia for a holiday, to visit family or friends, or for a short-term stay, you’ll likely need an Australia Tourist Visa, officially known as the Visitor visa (subclass 600). This visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily and comes with different conditions depending on your circumstances. Understanding the duration, cost, and entry rules can help you prepare a smooth and enjoyable visit.
How long can you stay on a tourist visa?
The duration of an Australian tourist visa depends on the stream you apply for and the decision made by the Department of Home Affairs. Typically, most tourist visas are granted for stays of up to:
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 12 months (in certain situations)
In most cases, the visa is valid for 12 months from the date of grant, allowing you to enter Australia within that period. The length of stay on each visit will be specified in your visa grant notice. Some visas may allow for single entry, while others grant multiple entry rights.
It’s important to stick to the period specified in your visa to avoid any complications with future visa applications.
Key takeaway: Your visa grant will indicate how long you can stay and how many times you can enter. Be sure to check these details carefully.
What are the costs involved?
The base application fee for an Australia tourist visa starts at AUD 190. However, the final cost can vary depending on how and where you lodge your application:
- Online application: Often the most straightforward and cost-effective method.
- Paper application or through an agent: May come with additional service or processing fees.
- Biometrics and health checks: These might also incur separate costs depending on your situation.
If you’re applying from outside Australia, you’ll need to consider currency exchange rates and payment method fees when budgeting.
Key takeaway: While the base visa fee is fixed, other costs like biometrics and service charges can add up—plan your budget accordingly.
Who can apply for the tourist visa?
You can apply for a tourist visa to Australia if you intend to visit for:
- A holiday or leisure trip
- Visiting family or friends
- Undertaking certain short-term study courses (up to 3 months)
- Other non-work purposes
You’ll need to show that you’re a genuine visitor and that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. In some cases, you may be asked to provide additional documents like:
- A travel itinerary
- Evidence of your relationship with family or friends in Australia
- Proof of financial capacity (e.g., bank statements)
Some applicants may also need to meet additional health or character requirements.
Key takeaway: Your intention to stay temporarily and your ability to support yourself are key factors in a successful visa application.
What are the entry conditions for a tourist visa?
Once your tourist visa is granted, it may come with specific conditions, such as:
- No work: You cannot work in Australia while holding this visa.
- No study for more than 3 months
- Must not stay beyond visa expiry
- Health insurance: While not always mandatory, having travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Some visas also have a condition called 8503 – No Further Stay, which means you cannot apply for another visa while in Australia, except under special circumstances.
It’s also important to check how many entries your visa allows. A single-entry visa lets you enter once. If you leave, you’ll need a new visa. A multiple-entry visa allows you to leave and return while it’s valid.
Key takeaway: Make sure you understand the restrictions attached to your visa. Breaking the rules could impact future applications.
How long does it take to process?
Processing times for the tourist visa can vary depending on demand, your personal circumstances, and the completeness of your application. As a rough guide:
- 75% of applications are processed within 20–25 days
- 90% within 30–40 days
If you’re travelling on specific dates, it’s best to apply early to allow for any delays, especially during peak travel seasons.
Key takeaway: Apply well in advance of your intended travel date to avoid last-minute stress.
Applying for an Australia tourist visa is generally straightforward if you understand the requirements and prepare ahead. By knowing how long you can stay, how much it costs, and what conditions apply, you can set realistic plans and make the most of your visit.
Whether you’re heading to Australia for a scenic getaway or to reconnect with loved ones, getting your visa sorted early means one less thing to worry about before your trip.
