Visitor Visas

Australia’s visitor visas allow individuals from around the world to enter the country for various short-term purposes such as tourism, business activities, visiting family and friends, or attending short-term courses and conferences. These visas are vital for promoting international travel and enhancing cultural connections.

This guide covers the different types of visitor visas available in Australia, along with details on their eligibility requirements, the application process, and information on which countries need or are exempt from needing a visa to enter Australia.

Visitor visas make it easier for global travellers to experience Australia’s diverse attractions, reunite with loved ones, engage in business, or participate in educational events. To ensure a smooth visit, it’s important to understand the visa conditions and follow the correct application steps. For the most accurate and updated information, it’s recommended to visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent or legal expert for professional guidance.

Visitor Visa to Australia: Eligibility, Conditions, and Extension Options

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Genuine Temporary Entrant: Applicants must demonstrate their intention to visit Australia temporarily for the stated purpose and not with the intention of staying permanently.
  • Health and Character Requirements: Visitors must meet health and character requirements and may need to undergo health examinations or provide police clearances.
  • Sufficient Funds: Visitors should have adequate funds to support themselves during their stay in Australia or have a financial guarantor.

Visitor Visa Extensions

In some cases, visitors may wish to extend their stay in Australia beyond the initial visa’s expiry date. Extension options vary depending on the type of visitor visa held and the applicant’s eligibility. It’s important to apply for an extension before the current visa expires to avoid overstaying and potential visa cancellation.

Visitor Visa Conditions

  • Visitor visas come with specific conditions that must be adhered to during the stay in Australia. These conditions may include:
  • No working or studying, except for certain limited business activities.
  • Maintaining adequate health insurance coverage.
  • Departing Australia before the visa expiry date.
  • Not engaging in any criminal activities while in Australia.
 

Types of Visitor Visas

There are four types of visitor visas: 

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is designed for individuals traveling to Australia for purposes such as tourism, business visits, or visiting family and friends.

It offers flexibility with options for either single or multiple entries. Depending on the visa granted, visitors can stay in Australia for 3, 6, or 12 months, making it ideal for various travel purposes such as sightseeing, attending business events, or spending time with loved ones.

EVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)

The eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) allows travelers to visit Australia multiple times within a 12-month period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months. This visa is ideal for a variety of purposes, including visiting family and friends, holidaying, attending business meetings, and, in some cases, participating in short-term study or training. 

To be eligible, applicants must apply from outside Australia and hold a passport from an eligible country. This visa offers a convenient option for short-term visits to Australia for both personal and business reasons

Eligibility Criteria for Visitor Visas

  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): Applicants must prove they intend to visit Australia temporarily for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends—not for permanent stay.

  • Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet Australia’s health and character standards. This may involve completing health checks or providing police clearance certificates.

  • Sufficient Funds: Visitors need to show they have enough financial resources to cover their stay or provide evidence of a financial guarantor.

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, Subclass 601)

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, Subclass 601) allows travelers to visit Australia multiple times within a 12-month period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months. This visa is perfect for holidays, visiting family and friends, or engaging in certain business activities.

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Apply from outside Australia.
  • Hold a passport from an eligible country.
  • Use the Australian ETA app to apply.
  • Watch the ETA video guides for application instructions.

The ETA offers a convenient and flexible option for short-term travel to Australia.

Apply for a Visitor visa

The first step in applying for a Visitor visa is to get in touch with the team at K1 Migration and arrange a discovery call.  Understanding your background and your goals will ensure we develop the right visa pathway that suits your circumstances.  

We take each step with you and provide help and advice throughout your migration journey.    

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    Step 1

    Once you reach out to K1 Migration, we set up a discovery call to understand what your needs are and what Visa best suits you.

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    Step 2

    From there, we will send you a Strategy proposal outlining the steps we will take to assist you in getting a Visa for you to sign off on.

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    Step 3

    Now our team leaps into action, following immigration pathways, taking care of the paperwork and helping you through the entire application process.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Let’s make it happen together. Contact K1 Migration today, and let us help you or your business take the next big step. We’re here to make your move smooth, stress-free, and successful!

Not sure what visa you could be eligible for?

Australian visas can be confusing, especially if you might have more than one option. Use our Visa Finder to view your visa options. 

Want to speak to someone about your case?

Not sure where to go from here? Speak to a registered migration agent about your immigration needs today.

Know what you need and want some pricing?

Know what visa you want to apply for but need some pricing? Get in touch with us and we will get back to you with a fixed price quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows individuals to visit Australia for purposes such as tourism, business visits, or to visit family and friends. This visa is designed for short-term stays and does not permit work in Australia. It offers different streams, including:

  • Tourist Stream: For holidays, recreation, or visiting family/friends.
  • Business Visitor Stream: For attending business meetings, seminars, or conferences.
  • Sponsored Family Stream: For visiting family, with sponsorship from an eligible Australian relative.

The stay period on a Visitor Visa typically ranges from 3 to 12 months, depending on the stream and individual circumstances. The exact duration is decided by the Department of Home Affairs when your visa is granted. Extensions may be possible, but you must apply before your current visa expires.

No, you cannot work while holding a Visitor Visa. However, you may engage in short-term study for up to 3 months. If you wish to work or study longer, you must apply for a more appropriate visa, such as a Student Visa (Subclass 500) or a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482).

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Visa Resources

Stay informed with the latest updates, expert insights, and essential resources on Australia’s evolving visa programs. From skilled migration pathways to new visa regulations, K1 Migration provides clear, accurate, and actionable information to help individuals and businesses successfully navigate the complex immigration landscape.

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