Australia Transit Visa Guide
When embarking on long-haul flights with stopovers, it’s common to have layovers in different countries. However, many nations don’t allow passengers to stay in airports for extended periods. In such cases, a transit visa becomes essential. If your transit point is in Australia, you’ll need a Transit Visa in Australia. We provide all the essential information about Australia Transit Visas.
What is an Australia Transit Visa? An Australia Transit Visa, also known as Subclass 771, is necessary if you’re traveling through Australia as a transit stop. While citizens of many countries do not require a transit visa, Indian citizens need one unless they hold an official passport. This visa permits a stay of up to 72 hours and can also be used by maritime crew members traveling by air to board non-military ships.
How to Obtain a Transit Visa for Australia from India? Getting an Australia Transit Visa (Subclass 771) from India is a straightforward online process facilitated by the Australian Government. Before applying, ensure you have all the required documents and scanned copies. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create an account on ImmiAccount for your application.
- Log in to your account and complete the application form with the necessary details.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit your application by paying the applicable visa fees.
- Note that in specific cases, you may be asked to provide biometrics. You will receive a notification if this is required.
Ensure that all information is accurate, and submit genuine documents, as providing false information or fake documents can lead to visa rejection and future ineligibility for various visa types.
Eligibility for Australia Transit Visa: To apply for an Australia Transit Visa from India, you must meet the following criteria:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
- Apply for a visa from outside Australia.
- Meet health and character requirements as per Australian regulations.
- Provide evidence of an onward journey from Australia.
- Have health insurance.
- If you are part of a maritime crew, ensure you also hold a maritime crew visa.
While Holding an Australia Transit Visa: When you have an Australia Transit Visa, keep the following in mind:
- Carry all your travel documents at all times.
- Be aware of your visa’s validity. Staying beyond the 72 hours is considered an offense.
- On this visa, you can visit family and friends and engage in tourism activities.
- You cannot work or participate in related activities.
- Respect Australian laws and the way of living.
Documents Required for an Australian Transit Visa: The checklist of documents required for an Australia Transit Visa includes:
- A valid Indian passport.
- A valid passport.
- A travel itinerary for your trip.
- Confirmed onward journey flight tickets and proof of accommodation.
- A statement from the shipping agent detailing vessel information, if applicable.
- Documents proving your connection to a non-military ship, if relevant.
- Proof of a valid permit to enter the country you are visiting from Australia.
- Health certificate if requested.
- Character certificate if requested.
Photo Specifications for Australian Transit Visa: Ensure your photographs meet the following specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm.
- Colored with a white or grey background.
- The head must be centered.
- Recent photograph.
- The face should cover 80% of the photo with a neutral expression.
- Eyes must be open and directed towards the camera.
- Non-thick framed prescription glasses are permitted.
- Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
Australia Transit Visa Processing Time: The processing time for an Australia Transit Visa from India is typically around 10-15 days. However, various factors, such as additional document requirements, biometric submission, and application complexity, can affect processing times. It’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any delays.
Australia Transit Visa Cost: The cost of an Australia Transit Visa for Indian citizens depends on biometric charges, visa agency fees, and additional service charges. Since fees can change without prior notice, it’s essential to check the exact amount when applying.
Submission of Your Application: Once your application is submitted, you will be informed if the high commission requires additional documents or biometrics. If in case your visa is approved, you will receive written details, including a visa grant number, validity, and other conditions. It’s important to note that the Australia Transit Visa is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), so you won’t need a physical visa document.
How to Check Visa Status: While waiting for your visa, you can check its status online by logging into your ImmiAccount. Alternatively, you can contact the travel agent through whom you applied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Technically, you can apply for a transit visa, but in most cases, it won’t be granted. The Australian government is strict about deportations and offenses. While there may be exceptional scenarios, deportation reasons are usually not considered.
No, you cannot extend a Transit Visa in Australia. It is valid for a maximum of 72 hours, and staying beyond this period is an offense. You cannot apply for another Transit Visa from within Australia.
No, you must leave Australia before your Transit Visa’s validity expires. Staying beyond this period is considered an offense and can result in deportation and future ineligibility.
Since Transit Visas are typically for short durations (less than 6 months), a specific medical test is not required in most cases. However, you may be asked for one if deemed necessary by the high commission, but you must meet the minimum health requirements to enter Australia.
You cannot convert a Transit Visa into another category. The “no further stay” condition applies to Transit Visas, requiring you to exit the country before its expiry. After leaving Australia, you can apply for other visas, provided you meet their specific conditions.
