Australia, often referred to as the Land Down Under, is a land of incredible natural beauty and diverse culture. Australia has iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the mesmerizing Great Barrier Reef; Australia offers a plethora of experiences for tourists. To explore this vast and enchanting country, you’ll need an Australian tourist visa. We will walk you through the process of obtaining one.

What is an Australia Tourist Visa? An Australian tourist visa is a vital document for travelers wishing to explore Australia for short-term tourism purposes. This visa, typically known as Subclass 600, is granted by the Australian government to individuals from eligible countries who intend to visit Australia for leisure, holidays, or to meet family and friends. The standard duration for this visa is three months, but it can be extended up to 12 months under specific circumstances. It’s important to note that you can only apply for this visa when you are outside Australia.

Are you applying for an Australia Tourist Visa? Before applying for an Australian tourist visa, you must meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents ready. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an Australia tourist visa:

Online Procedure:

1. Create an IMMI account on the official website: IMMI Account.
2. Fill out the Australia tourist visa application form for Subclass 600.
3. Complete the form with accurate information and attach a recent photograph according to the specified photo specifications.
4. Attach the required supporting documents.
5. Pay the visa fees online.
6. Submit the application form to the Australian embassy online.
7. Upon Submission, you may need to provide biometrics and undergo a health examination if instructed by the embassy.

Offline Procedure:

1. Download the application form from this link.
2. Please fill out the form with the necessary details and sign it.
3. Attach the required documents, including original documents, if specified.
4. Submit the completed form to the Australian embassy.
5. Pay the visa fees at the time of Submission.
6. Provide biometrics if required by the embassy.
7. Undergo a health examination if mandated by the embassy.

When filling out the application form, ensure that you provide accurate and truthful information and submit genuine documents. Providing false information or fraudulent documents may lead to visa rejection, which could affect future visa applications.

Eligibility for Australia Tourist Visa To be eligible for an Australia tourist visa, you must meet certain criteria, including:

• Meeting health requirements (specific requirements may vary depending on the visa type).
• Obtaining a character certificate, typically in the form of a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• Have enough funds to cover your stay in Australia or access to funds for your expenses.
• The sole purpose for a genuine visitor is with the intent of visiting Australia solely for tourism purposes while adhering to the country’s rules and regulations.
• Possess health insurance to cover potential medical expenses during your stay.

Documents Required for an Australian Tourist Visa When applying for an Australian tourist visa, you must provide specific documents, including:

• Passport with at least 6 months validity ( from your planned departure date.)
• Colored photographs that meet the specified photo specifications.
• A detailed cover letter.
• Proof of any change of name (if applicable).
• Proof of financial funds, including savings bank statements from the past 6 months, salary slips, or equivalent documents.
• Invitation letters from relevant Australian family members or friends should specify your relationship with the invitee, the purpose and duration of your visit, and whether you will be staying with them.
• Proof of your intention to return home, which can include a letter from your employer, school, college, or university, as well as evidence of immediate family ties and major assets in your home country.
• A return ticket.
• Character documents, such as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• Proof of identification, including your PAN card and Aadhaar card.

Photo Specifications of Australian Tourist Visa Photographs for an Australian tourist visa must adhere to specific guidelines:

• Photo size: 35 mm x 45 mm.
• Provide a colored copy.
• Ensure the head covers about 30 mm within the photo frame.
• Center the head within the frame.
• Use a recent photograph not older than 6 months.
• The background should be white.
• Maintain a neutral expression.
• Avoid wearing glasses, except for prescription glasses.
• Headgear is not allowed except for religious reasons.
• Clothing should not match the background.

Processing Time of Australian Tourist Visa The processing time for an Australian tourist visa is approximately 10 to 15 days after the embassy receives your documents. However, the processing time may vary depending on factors such as embassy workload, biometric appointments, form accuracy, document verification time, and other considerations.

Fast-track applications are available for travelers applying for an Australian tourist visa from India, allowing for visa issuance within 2 days in most cases. However, this option may not be applicable if you have health issues or character concerns or if your previous visa applications were rejected.

Australia Tourist Visa Fee The fee for an Australian tourist visa varies based on several factors, including service charges, biometric charges, processing fees, and other aspects. The fee may also differ for urgent visa requirements. Here are some examples of visa fees for multiple-entry tourist visas:

• Multiple Entry Normal (6 months validity): AUD 7700.0
• Multiple Entry Normal (12 months validity): AUD 7700.0
• Multiple Entry Normal (3 months validity): AUD 7700.0
• Multiple Entry Normal (1-year validity): AUD 17050.0

After Submission After submitting your application form and required documents, there are some important actions to take:

• Inform the embassy of any errors in your application form.
• Withdraw your application if you have a change of plans.
• Update the embassy about any changes in your phone number, address, or passport.
• Notify the embassy of changes in your relationship status or the birth of a child while your visa is being processed.

How to Check Visa Status? Check the visa application status by visiting the official online website of the Australian embassy or Australia Immigration. Enter the required details, such as your application number, to track the status of your visa. Alternatively, you can contact the embassy with your visa application number for an update.

When You Have This Visa Once you have been granted an Australian tourist visa, there are several important things to keep in mind:

Before You Travel:

• Ensure you have a valid visa before boarding your flight to Australia.
• Carry a valid passport and all necessary travel documents.

At the Border:

• Complete the required formalities, including filling out the Incoming Passenger Card.
• Utilize the Smart Gate for faster Entry if eligible.

When Entering Australia:

• Carry your original and valid visa with you.
• Abide by the visa conditions outlined in your visa grant letter.

What You Can Do on Your Visa:

• Enjoy a cruise or a holiday in Australia.
• Visit family and friends, often referred to as the Australia visitor visa.
• Pursue short-term studies or training for up to 3 months.
• Engage in volunteer work but refrain from employment activities.
• Understand the visa type:
  • Single Entry: Allows one Entry, and if you leave, you cannot return.
  • Multiple entries: Permits multiple visits to Australia within the visa’s validity period.