Australia, a country of incredible diversity and remarkable natural wonders, welcomes you to immerse yourself in its modern cities, iconic sites, and unique wildlife. From the shores of the Gold Coast to the untamed beauty of the Outback, and the world-famous Sydney Opera House, Australia promises experiences unlike anywhere else. 

If you plan to visit Australia, obtaining a visa is often a key step. This guide is designed to make the visa application process straightforward and stress-free. We provide all the details you need to ensure a smooth start to your journey across Australia.

What is an Australian eVisa?

An Australian eVisa is a digital authorization that connects directly to a traveler’s passport, simplifying entry requirements by removing the need for a physical visa. It streamlines the application process, which is completed online. Common types include the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for short tourism or business trips, eVisitor Visa for European citizens, and the Visitor Visa for longer stays. Each visa type has unique eligibility rules, durations, and fees, so it’s crucial to select the one that aligns with your travel plans and nationality.

Australian Visa Type Information

Australia provides a number of visas to suit different travel needs. These are the most relevant visas for tourism, work, and study purposes. For comprehensive details on all visa subclasses, please refer to the Australia Visa Type page.

Visitor Visas

Studying and Training Visas

Working and Skilled Visas

Australian eVisa Required Documents 

To complete the application process, the following documents are required:

1. Passports: Copies of both old and new passports must be provided. Each passport should be valid for a minimum of six months and contain at least two blank pages.
2. Application Form: A duly completed online application form must be submitted with accurate details.
3. Family Documents (if applicable): A family register and composition form should be included.
4. Photograph: A recent color photograph (35x45 mm) with a white background is necessary. The photograph should be in JPEG format, and applicants should not wear glasses.

If the application involves a sponsor, the following documents are required:

• Sponsorship Proof: A letter from the sponsor along with their financial documents. Additionally, a copy of the sponsor’s photo ID (passport or driver’s license) must be provided.

Financial Documentation:

• Tax Records: All tax documents should be consolidated into a single PDF file.
• Bank Statements: Three months' worth of bank statements are needed. These must include the bank's address, contact details, the account holder's name, and the bank’s stamp and signature, along with proof of sufficient funds. The statements should be compiled into a single PDF file.
• Credit Card Statements and Term Deposit Receipts can also be required.
• Salary Slips: The last three months' salary slips in one PDF file may be required.

Travel Documentation: Confirmed flight tickets and a hotel voucher are mandatory to finalize the application.

Additional Requirements for Minor Applicants:

• No Objection Certificate (NOC): A letter from the minor's school or university might be required.
• Birth Certificate: It is necessary to present a copy of the minor's birth certificate.
• Parental Documentation: Includes a sponsorship letter, details of expenses, and a copy of the parents' marriage certificate.
• Parental Authorization: If the minor is traveling unaccompanied, written parental consent is mandatory.

Australia ETA (Subclass 601) Overview

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) allows you to visit Australia multiple times within a 12-month period, staying up to 3 months each visit.

What Can You Do with This Visa?

1. Tourism & Visits: Travel for holidays, cruises, or to visit friends and family.
2. Business Visits: Attend meetings, explore business opportunities, negotiate contracts, or take part in conferences (without payment).
3. Short-Term Study: You can study or train for up to 3 months. If studying is your main reason for traveling, apply for a student visa.

Validity & Duration

The ETA is valid for 12 months (or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner). It allows multiple entries, with each stay lasting up to 3 months.

Extensions

The ETA cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa.

Eligibility

To apply for an ETA, you must be from one of the eligible countries Australia ETA.

Australia eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) Overview

With the eVisitor visa, you can travel to Australia as frequently as you wish for a maximum of 3 months at a time throughout a 12-month period.

What Can You Do with This Visa?

1. Tourism & Visits: Travel for holidays, cruises, or visit friends and family.
2. Business Visits: Attend meetings, explore business opportunities, negotiate contracts, or participate in conferences (without payment).
3. Short-Term Study: Study or train for up to 3 months. If your main goal is studying, consider applying for a student visa.

Validity & Duration

After it is issued, the eVisitor visa is good for a full year. You can enter Australia as many times as you like during this period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months.

Extensions

This visa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa.

Travel Flexibility 

The eVisitor allows for multiple entries, meaning you can leave and re-enter Australia while the visa is valid.

Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Overview

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) permits you to enter Australia briefly for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. The visa is suitable for those who wish to stay in Australia for a longer period compared to the ETA or eVisitor visa.

Validity & Duration

• Typically, the Subclass 600 visa is issued for stays of three, six, or twelve months.
• The visa's validity and allowed duration depend on the specific stream you apply for and individual circumstances.
• It is possible to be granted single or multiple entries, depending on your application.

Streams Available

• Tourist Stream (apply in or outside Australia): Suitable for tourism or visiting family and friends.
• Sponsored Family Stream (apply outside Australia): For those visiting family members who are willing to sponsor their stay.
• Business Visitor Stream (apply outside Australia): For business purposes such as attending seminars or negotiations.
• Approved Destination Status Stream (apply outside Australia): For citizens of certain countries traveling in tour groups.
• Frequent Traveller Stream (apply outside Australia): For travelers from China who visit frequently for business or tourism.

Extensions

The Subclass 600 visa cannot be extended. You must apply for a new visa before your existing one expires if you need to stay longer.

Eligibility

All other countries that don't qualify for an ETA or eVisitor can apply for Australian Visitor Visa Subclass 600.

Visa-on-Arrival in Australia

Currently, Australia does not offer a visa-on-arrival option for travelers. If you are planning a visit, it is advisable to stay informed regarding the latest guidelines. 

The Australian Department of Home Affairs' official website has the latest visa requirements. Please ensure you verify this information prior to your trip to avoid any unexpected issues.

Applying for an Australian eVisa Online: Step-by-Step Guide

The Australian eVisa application process is straightforward and fully online. Follow these steps:

Once approved, your eVisa will be emailed directly for convenience and security.

Australia e-Visa Processing Times

The Australia e-Visa offers three processing options to suit your travel timeline:

1. Normal Processing: The most economical option, ideal for those with flexible schedules.
2. Expedited Processing: A faster option for travelers needing quicker results, available at an additional cost.
3. Super Rush Processing: The fastest choice, designed for urgent travel plans, with a higher fee applied.

Select the one that best suits your needs and itinerary.

Australia e-Visa Fee Structure

The cost of an Australia e-Visa depends on your visa type, nationality, number of entries, and processing speed. For accurate fees, use the fee calculator on the official Visa Fees page.

Visa charges are subject to change. The amount payable is based on the date your application is received. If fees increase between submission and processing, you must pay the updated amount. Ensure your account has sufficient funds and meets daily transaction limits to cover any surcharges.

Nail Your Visa Application on the First Go

Now that you are well informed about Australian e-Visas let's make sure you get it right the first time! 

With the high volume of visa applications we're processing right now, even a small mistake could delay your application—or worse, lead to a refusal. Do not panic, though; there are easy ways to ensure that your visa application is prepared for a prompt decision.

Tips for a Smoother Application Process

To make the visa process as smooth as possible, consider these handy tips:

• Submit Complete and Correct Information: Ensure all required documents are included, and every piece of information is accurate. Missing paperwork or incorrect details could slow things down.
• Give Yourself Time: Collecting everything you need might take longer than you expect. Make sure you allow enough time to gather official documents like birth and marriage certificates, police checks, medical reports, and translations.
• Double-Check Your Work: Before hitting submit, go over everything one more time. Double-check that your name matches your passport exactly—including middle names—and that no auto-corrections have sneaked in. Ensure your date of birth is in the correct format (dd/mm/yy) as well.
• Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Submit your application well in advance of your travel plans. Trust us; it's less stressful that way. And remember—book your flights only after your visa is granted.

These extra steps you take can have a significant impact, helping us process your application faster and getting you on your way sooner!

Frequently Asked Questions