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.
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
- Payslips
For Self-Employed or business owners
- Business licence
- A finance sheet that explains profits and losses
- Income tax document
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.
39 Comments
Hello, my employer will sponsor all my expenses (roundtrip air ticket for 2 weeks stay in AU and accommodation) I am here in Philippines working as independent contractor for my client. I have ff questions below, hope you can give me an advice. Thank you so much in advance.
1. do I need to include this in my cover letter? what is the safe cover letter I can say? if self funded i have low income here
2. what else do my employer need to provide as proof? this is a gift travel to me and like an appreciation gift of my employer
Hello! Great to hear about your upcoming trip, and I’d be happy to help. Here are some suggestions:
Cover Letter: Yes, it’s a good idea to mention your employer’s sponsorship in your cover letter. You can simply state that your employer will be covering all expenses for this trip as an appreciation gift. Mention that you’re an independent contractor and provide a brief explanation of the purpose of your visit. For example, “My employer is generously covering my travel expenses, including airfare and accommodation, as an appreciation for my work.”
Employer’s Proof: Your employer should provide a sponsorship or support letter explaining that they will cover all costs related to your trip as a gesture of appreciation. The letter should ideally include specifics about what expenses they’ll cover (e.g., roundtrip airfare, accommodation) and confirm the purpose and duration of your stay. Additional documents, like proof of the company’s business registration or financial capacity, may also strengthen your application.
Let me know if you need help drafting these documents, and best of luck with your visa application!
Hi, Should I apply separately for my wife and me for a Visitor Visa to Australia?
You may apply for all together
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.
Hi,
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.
Hi there
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.
Thank you.
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.