Australia Visitor Visa – Overview (Tourist / Business)
The Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is designed for people who want to travel to Australia temporarily for tourism, visiting family/friends, or for short-term business activities. This is a non-immigrant visa, meaning it does not allow permanent residence or work rights.
Types of Visitor Visas
- Tourist Stream (Tourist Visa)
- Purpose : Visit for holidays, recreation, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.
- Who can apply : Anyone outside or inside Australia.
- Stay period : Usually up to 3, 6, or 12 months.
- Key Notes :
- You must show that you are a genuine visitor.
- You must have enough funds to support yourself.
- Business Visitor Stream
- Purpose: Short business visits for :
- Attending conferences, trade fairs, or seminars (no payment allowed)
- Negotiating business contracts
- Exploring business opportunities
- Who can apply : People outside Australia.
- Stay period : Usually up to 3 months.
- Not allowed : Working, selling goods/services, or providing services.
- Purpose: Short business visits for :
- Sponsored Family Stream
- For people visiting family members in Australia who are sponsoring their visit.
- The sponsor may need to pay a security bond.
- Approved Destination Status Stream (for Chinese citizens only)
- For Chinese nationals visiting on organized group tours.
General Eligibility Requirements
- Be a genuine visitor: Intend to stay temporarily and obey visa conditions.
- Have sufficient funds to cover your stay.
- Provide documents to support your application.
- Show strong ties to your home country (job, family, property, etc.).
- Be in good health and have no serious criminal record.
Visa Fees (as of 2024 – subject to change)
| Visa Type | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Tourist or Business) | AUD 190 |
| Sponsored Family Stream | AUD 190 |
| Approved Destination Status | Varies |
Processing Time
- Tourist Visa: 10 to 25 days (varies by application)
- Business Visitor Visa: 8 to 20 days
- Processing can be faster with complete and accurate documentation
Common Documents Required
- Valid passport
- Recent passport-size photo
- Travel itinerary (flights, hotel bookings)
- Bank statements (past 3–6 months)
- Employment letter or proof of business
- Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
- Evidence of ties to home country (job, family, assets)
What You CANNOT Do on This Visa
- Work or be employed
- Sell goods/services to the public
- Stay long term or apply for permanent residency
- Study for more than 3 months
How to Apply
- Apply online at the Australian Government website
- Create an ImmiAccount
- Fill in the application, upload documents, and pay the visa fee
- Book a biometric appointment if required
- Wait for a decision (via email)
Who Is It For?
- Tourists wanting to explore Australia
- People visiting family or friends
- Business people attending meetings or events
- Frequent travelers who need multiple entries (valid up to 3 years in some cases)