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Visitor Visas

In order to holiday in Australia or visit family, you will generally require a visitor visa before travelling. There a number of different visitor visa subclasses that you may apply for, depending on your country of origin.

eVisitor and Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) Visas

For applicants from many European, North American and some Asian countries, it will be possible to apply for either an eVisitor (subclass 651) or Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) visa.

Both of the visas entitle the holder to a 12 month visa, in which they are able to travel to Australia for 3 months at a time in that 12 month period. These visas are generally free or attract a nominal fee, and are automatically granted within one business day.

Visitor Visas (subclass 600)

For applicants from all countries that are not eligible for either the eVisitor or ETA visa, an application will need to be made for a Visitor Visa (subclass 600).

The Visitor Visa is split into 4 streams, depending on the purpose of your visit:

  • Business Activity;
  • Tourist;
  • Sponsored Family;
  • Approved Destination or Tour.

Unlike the eVisitor and ETA visa, the Visitor Visa is not automatically granted and requires the applicant to meet a number of criteria in order to make a successful application.

These include, but are not limited to:

  • Evidence of financial support for the duration of the stay;
  • The applicant is a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE);
  • The applicant genuine intends to travel to Australia for a vacation or to visit family;
  • Depending on the duration of stay, and country of origin, the applicant may also need to complete a medical assessment.

Applications for visitor visas are extensive and closely scrutinised by the Department of Home Affairs. Errors in the application process and failing to meet each criteria can lead to longer processing times and the possibility of a refusal.

If you are considering making an application for a Visitor Visa for yourself or your family, we recommend first confirming your eligibility and whether this is the most appropriate visa for your circumstances. To arrange a consultation with a MAPS registered migration agent today, please call us on 1300 899 734.