Tourist Visa Australia - Definitive Guide
There’s nothing like Australia! Did you know? On a tourist visa Australia, you can explore various tourist locations in Australia like the Opera House and Sparkling waterway in Sydney, the Arnhem Island, Cradle mountain and certainly the beauty of the ‘Great Barrier Reef’.
What is Australia Tourist Visa?
One of the most important things that you need to travel to Australia is an Australian tourist visa. It is granted by the Government of Australia to an individual who is willing to travel to Australia for a short-term tourism purpose. This visa is applied by the tourists from the allowed countries to spend their holidays in the country, or sometimes even to meet their relatives or friends in Australia. An Australia tourist visa for Indians is of Subclass 600. The duration for which this visa can be issued is 3 months. However, the visa can also be extended up to 12 months under certain circumstances. You will be able to apply for the visa only if you are outside Australia.
How to Apply for Australia Tourist Visa?
Before applying for the visa, it is essential that you need to make sure you have the eligibility and the requirements to meet. You need to check your passport and its validity, also organize health exams as per the requirement of the embassy. The step by step procedure to apply for Australia tourist visa from India is as follows:
- Online procedure
- Create an IMMI account - https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login
- Fill out the Australia tourist visa application form for Subclass 600 visa.
- Fill in the correct details and required information and attach your recent photograph as per the given photo specifications.
- Attach the required documents along with the form.
- Pay the fees for the visa online.
- Submit the application form to the embassy online.
- When the application is submitted you will need to provide the biometrics to the embassy.
- Organize a health test if instructed by the embassy.
- Offline procedure
- Print out the application form from https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/form-listing/forms/1419.pdf
- Fill in the appropriate details and sign the form
- Attach the documents, original if asked
- Submit the form to the embassy
- Pay the fees for the visa at the time of submitting the form
- Provide the biometrics
- Organize a health examination if mandated by the embassy
At the time of filling out the form, you need to ensure that you provide the proper and true information and the documents are genuine. If there is any kind of misconduct or if the original documents are not submitted, there is a possibility that your visa may get rejected. You must also note that if you go through a visa rejection, it can even affect your future visa applications.
Eligibility for Australia Tourist Visa
When you apply for a tourist visa Australia, you need to make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria. The eligibility for the ones who can apply is given as follows:
- You must meet the health requirements :
The health requirements are different for different types of visas. They may not be required for a tourist visa. However, there are certain medical tests that are to be taken to get an Australian tourist visa for Indians. If you are above the age of 75, or if your stay is longer than 6 months, you will require a medical certificate.
- You must meet the character requirements :
You need to acquire a character certificate in order to submit it to the embassy. It can be submitted in the form of a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) as well.
- You must have enough funds to support your stay in Australia :
You need to have enough balance in your savings bank account. If not, you at least need to have access to funds to be able to pay for your expenses.
- You must be a genuine visitor :
When you are applying for this tourist visa, you need to ensure that you are a genuine visitor and are visiting Australia only for tourism purposes. Meanwhile, you are also supposed to stay within the rules and regulations.
- You must possess health insurance :
Health insurance must be issued so that you can cover any kind of possible injury. The insurance may limit your financial liability.
Documents Required For Australian Tourist Visa
There are particular documents that are required at the time of issuance of the visa. The Australia tourist visa documents are as follows:
- Original passport with a validity up to 6 months ahead of the date of journey
- Coloured photographs as per the photo specifications
- Cover letter - Detailed
- Proof of change of name (if applicable)
- Proof of financial funds
- Savings bank statement from the previous 6 months
- Salary slip; or any other equivalent documents
- Invitation letter (if visiting a friend)
- The letter must specify your relationship with the invitee
- The purpose of the visit and the length of stay in the country
- Specifying if they are staying with you
- Proof of you returning home
- Letter from your employer
- Letter from your school, college or the university
- Proof that you have immediate family back home
- Proof of your major assets at home
- Return ticket
- Character documents - PCC (Police Clearance Certificate)
- Income Tax Returns proof
- Proof of identification - PAN card, Adhaar card
Photo Specification of Australian Tourist Visa
- Photo size: 35 mm x 45 mm.
- Coloured copy must be provided
- The head must be about 30 mm in the photo frame.
- Head should well-centred.
- The picture should be recent and not older than 6 months.
- The background must be white
- Neutral expressions
- Glasses are not permitted.
- Headgears are not allowed except for religious reasons.
- Clothing shouldn’t match the background.
Processing Time of Australian Tourist Visa
When the documents have been received by the embassy, the officials will get the documents processed. The time required for the processing of documents and the application form is about 10 to 15 days. The processing time will still vary as per the workload at the embassy, the time required for biometrics, if the form has been filled in incorrectly, or the documents are missing or whether it’s taking longer to verify the information provided.
Applying for an Australia tourist visa from India, you are automatically benefitted with the Fast-track application as well. Fast-track application is how you can reduce the processing time for the visa and get it issued within 2 days. This privilege may not be applicable in certain cases like - if you have a health problem, there is an issue with the character or if the visa application has been refused previously.
Australia Tourist Visa Fee
The visa fees needed for the visa varies depending on various aspects. There are service charges, biometric charges, processing fee and other aspects as well. The fee will vary if you have applied for the urgent requirement of the visa.
| Entry | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple entry Normal | 6 months | 1 year | 193.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | 12 months | 1 year | 10615.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | 3 months | 1 year | 10615.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | 3 months | 1 year | 10615.0 |
| Multiple Entry Normal | 1 year | 1 year | 10615.0 |
After Submission
When the application form is completed, it is to be submitted to the embassy with all the required documents. Also, there are certain things that can be done or are to be done after the submission and the embassy must be informed. Such as -
- Inform the embassy if there are any mistakes in the application form
- Withdraw the application if you have a change of plans
- Any changes in the phone number, address, or the passport must be informed
- Changes in the relationship status or if there is a birth of a child when the visa is processing should be known to the embassy
How to Check Visa Status?
In order to check the status of your visa processing, you will have to visit the official website of the embassy or the Australia Immigration. You can fill in the required details like the application number and track the visa status. Else, you can even call the embassy with your visa application number and get an update on the status.
When You Have This Visa?
When you have received your visa, you need to make sure of a few things. There are certain pointers that you need to take care of. Some of the pointers are mentioned as follows:
- Before you travel
- You need to make sure that you have a valid visa before taking the flight to Australia.
- You also must carry a valid passport and other travel documents as well.
- At the border
- When you reach the airport, you need to make sure that you complete the formalities that are involved. You first need to fill in the Incoming Passenger Card.
- You can use the Smart Gate. The Smart Gate uses facial recognition to confirm your identity and the credibility of your ePassport as well. You will be able to enter the country faster.
- When you enter the country
- You must have an original and valid visa with you.
- You must meet the visa conditions provided on the visa grant letter.
- What can you do on your visa
- On your visa, you can go on a cruise or have a holiday.
- You can visit your family and friends in the country, hence, also called Australia visitor visa.
- You can study or obtain training for up to 3 months.
- You are not allowed to be involved in any kind of employment but can do volunteer work.
- Single entry
You can enter the country once and if you leave, you will not be able to return to the country.
- Multiple entries
With multiple entry permit, you can enter Australia multiple times within the validity of the visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to get an Australian tourist visa?
The process of obtaining a tourist visa for Australia is quite simple and straightforward. However, the complications come into play when you have to get the documents ready. You are required to have all the necessary documents without fail. You might even need health, or even character certificates. If you submit your application with honesty, and genuine documents, and have a clean and healthy background, you will receive your visa easily.
Can I work while on a tourist visa in Australia?
No, it is strictly prohibited to take part in work activities while you are on a tourist visa. The tourist permit is used for the sole purpose of tourism. However, you may take part in unpaid, social work that benefits the community. Failure to abide by these restrictions can cause your visa being cancelled.
What is the validity for Australian tourist visa?
The validity of the visa depends on each individual case. The visa officer makes this decision based on factors such as your reason to stay in the country, as well as how long you want to stay. Usually, the permit is given for 3 months. However, it may also be given up to 12 months.
Is the difficulty higher for Indians to get a tourist visa to Australia?
The difficulty is usually irrespective of the country you belong to. In fact, it may be easier for Indians to get the visa. India is one of the nationalities that can apply for a fast track application. However, certain countries will have additional documents and eligibility criteria. As long as you submit the proper application and documentation, and meet the necessary eligibility criteria, you will not face any difficulties in the process.
Do we have interview mandatory for a tourist visa Australia?
No. you will not be required to give and interview for an Australia tourist visa. However, you may be required to provide your biometrics at a visa application centre or biometric collection centre, as well as be asked for health certificates and character certificates to prove your eligibility.
Can I change an Australian tourist visa into a working permit?
No, you cannot change your tourist visa into a working type. While you are on a tourist permit, you cannot be issued any substantive visa other than a protection visa. However, once your visa expires and you are back in your home country, you may apply for a work visa, or apply for one towards the end of your tourist visa validity.
Can I fly to Australia with a tourist visa without a return ticket?
There is no rule stating that you must provide a return ticket. However, having a confirmed return ticket will help your application. One of the important criteria under which the government issues a tourist visa is that you return to your country after the visit. As a result, you will be asked to provide other evidence to prove that your visit is temporary.
How much funds are required for an Australian tourist visa?
As per the Australian High Commission, you are required to show that you have funds to cover your stay in Australia. There isn’t a specific amount; However, generally, it is advisable to show that you have around 1000-1500 AUD for an individual per month for every month you plan on staying in the country.
Can I change an Australian tourist visa to a student permit?
You cannot change your tourist visa into a student visa. The tourist permit does not allow you to hold any substantive visa while you are on it. However, you can study for up to 3 months while you are on a tourist visa, or you can apply for a new student visa after or towards the end of your tourist permit expiry depending upon if there is a ‘no further stay’ condition on your current visa.
How do I convert a tourist visa into a work permit in Australia?
You cannot directly convert the tourist permit into a work permit. Alternately, you can file a new application for a work visa. However, depending on the type of work permit you require, you might have to wait till your current visa expires and then apply from outside Australia, or apply for one in Australia towards the end of your Australia tourist visa.
What is the procedure to extend a tourist visa in Australia?
As per the visa regulations, the tourist visa for Australia (subclass 600) cannot be extended by any means. You can, however, apply for a new visa if you wish to stay in the country. Although, certain visas may require you to be outside Australia to apply for them.
How many times can I get a tourist visa for Australia?
According to the visa regulations, there is no limit on how many times you can apply for a tourist visa for Australia. However, you must not stay in Australia for more than a duration of 12 months in an 18-month period unless there are exceptional circumstances. After each tourist visa expires, depending on any ‘no further stay’ condition on your permit, you will have to go back to your home country and apply for a new one, or you can also apply for it from within Australia, provided you meet certain criteria.
Do I need to undergo a medical examination for an Australian tourist visa?
The Australian government requires that all the visitors to the country should meet the minimum health requirements. Depending upon their decision, the embassy may ask you to undergo a medical examination and submit a medical certificate. However, the test is mandatory for people above the age of 75 years.
Can I sponsor a family member in their Australian tourist visa application?
No, You cannot sponsor a family member in their tourist visa application. To be able to sponsor them, you will need them to apply for a Sponsor stream visitor visa. However, in the tourist stream, you will be able to support their stay in the country. You will have to provide a letter stating your family member’s purpose, duration, your relationship, as well as that they will be staying with you. Also, if you are paying for his stay, you will need to provide proof of your funds.
Can I get an ABN in Australia while on a tourist permit?
No, you certainly cannot get an Australia Business Number (ABN) while you are on a tourist visa. One of the basic criteria of the tourist permit is that you do not take part in work activities. Applying for an ABN would be proof of you doing work, and as a result, is against the law and can get your visa cancelled and get deported.
Can I apply for a partner visa while on an Australian tourist visa?
Yes, you may apply for a partner visa while you are on a tourist visa. However, since you cannot have substantive visa while you are on a tourist permit, you must wait towards the end of your stay period, or after your visa expires to apply for this depending on the conditions in your visa.
Can a tourist visa to Australia be granted to a holder with an ECR passport?
Yes, you can get a tourist visa even if your passport has an ECR (Emigration Clearance Required) stamp. The tourist visa does not allow permission to work, and since ECR only affects work permits, you will remain unaffected. However, it may affect your application if you are applying for other visas.
Can I apply for a tourist permit while my spouse visa is being processed?
Yes, you can apply for a tourist visa while your spouse or partner visa is being processed. However, if you are granted with the tourist permit, your partner visa application will be withdrawn and cancelled. As a result, you are advised not to apply for any other visa while your permanent spouse visa is being processed
Can I change my Australian tourist into a student visa without visiting Australia?
You can apply for a student visa while you are in Australia, or even when you are outside. As a result, you do not have to visit the country to apply for a student visa. However, the tourist visa does not allow any substantive visa while you are on it and if it has a ‘no further stay’ condition, you will definitely have to apply it from outside the country.
Can we get a 10 year tourist visa in Australia?
No, you will not be issued with a tourist visa that is valid for 10 years. Usually, the tourist permit is issued for 3 to 12 months. However, in certain other criteria such as the tourist being a parent of an Australian citizen, the visa may be issued for up to 5 years.
Can I apply for a tourist permit while my student visa application is under process?
Yes, you can apply for a tourist permit while your student permit is still under processing. However, be aware that once either of your visas has been approved, the other one will become invalid as you will not be allowed to carry two independent visas at once.
Can I change a tourist visa into a spouse visa without leaving Australia?
It cannot be ‘changed’, but you may apply for a spouse visa without leaving Australia if your tourist visa does not have a ‘no further stay’ condition. However, if it does possess the condition, you would have to go back to your country and apply from there.
Are income tax returns mandatory for an Australian tourist visa?
No, it is not mandatory, however, as one of the eligibility criteria for the visa is to prove that you possess sufficient funds during your stay in the country, you will have to submit documents showing these. An income tax returns record is one of the documents that can prove financial resources. As a result, it is acceptable, but not mandatory.
Can I extend my Australian tourist visa from India?
No, you cannot extend your Australia tourist visa at all. However, you can apply for a new tourist visa once your current permit ends. This can be done from outside Australia, or within the country if you do not have a ‘no further stay’ condition.
Can I get an Australian student visa after getting rejected of an Australian tourist visa?
No, you will be ineligible to apply for a student visa if you have been rejected for a tourist permit. Australia takes visa rejection very seriously, and only allow a limited few types of permits that can be applied to if you have been rejected in the past.
