australian tourist visa for under 18

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Australian Visa and Entry Requirements FAQs

Learn about visa requirements for entry to Australia for tourism purposes with this list of frequently asked questions. 

Please note this page is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. For information on visas to enter Australia, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information from Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .*

Ready to plan your trip? We're ready to welcome you! Here are some helpful tips for getting your visa sorted: 

• Be sure to secure the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia. Use the Visa Finder to explore your options.
• Ensure all details are correct and provide all required documents when you apply. An incomplete or incorrect application can delay your visa.
• Submitting multiple applications at the same time can slow the process. For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children. 
• Questions? The Australian Government's Global Service Centre can help.

Australian Visa Information

Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of Australian visa types, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, via the ETA app or on the  Department of Home Affairs website.

There are different Australian visa types available for travellers to Australia. Knowing which Australian visa to apply for depends on the length of your stay, your passport and the purpose of your visit. You’ll also need to meet certain financial and medical requirements, be outside of Australia when applying and maintain health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) This visa allows you to visit Australia as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay for three months each visit. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of countries and regions, who live outside Australia. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is  here .

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app. Agents can assist you in the application process, but you must be physically present as a live facial image is required.

eVisitor  (subclass 651) This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of European countries and it cannot be extended.

Visitor visa  (subclass 600) The Visitor visa allows you to visit Australia, either for tourism or business purposes. It is open to all nationalities. Generally, a period of stay of up to three months is granted, but up to 12 months may be granted in certain circumstances. Applicants will have to pay a fee to submit their application.

The application process may differ depending on which visa you need.

You can only apply for the  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located  here .

For other visas, you can apply online by creating an ImmiAccount and completing the application process. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of your travel date to allow enough time for processing. You may be asked to provide further supporting information. You will be notified in writing if your tourist visa is approved and it will be digitally linked to your passport. For more information on different visa types, and Australian visa requirements including how to apply for an Australian visa, visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website.

If you are already in Australia and hold a valid Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) you can extend your stay by applying for another visa, such as a Visitor visa (subclass 600). An eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot be extended.

See the Department of Home Affairs website for details.

Working Holiday Visas

Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions.

Find out more about working holiday visas here .

*Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check this information is still current by visiting the Australian Department of Home Affairs .

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Visitor Visa for Child Under 18 to Australia

• June 24, 2023

If you are planning to bring a child under the age of 18 to Australia as a visitor, there are some specific requirements and considerations that you will need to take into account. For a subclass 600 visa, both parents (or all people with custody of the child) must provide their consent for the child to travel to Australia if both parents are not travelling with the child.

Visitor visa for child under 18 to Australia

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you obtain a child tourist visa to Australia :

• Determine the type of visa required: The first step in obtaining a visitor visa for a child under 18 is to determine the type of visa that is required. In most cases, a visitor visa will be sufficient for a short-term stay in Australia for tourism or visiting family and friends. However, if the child will be participating in activities such as study or work, a different type of visa may be required.
• Gather the necessary documents: To apply for a visitor visa, you will need to provide certain documents to support your application. This may include:
• A valid passport for the child
• Birth certificate or other proof of the child’s identity
• A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate
• A certified copy of the passport of the parent not travelling with the child
• Child travel consent form Australia (or travel consent form for minor Australia) : Signed Form 1229 by the non-travelling parent (Consent form to grant an Australian visitor visa to a child under the age of 18 years)
• Evidence of the child’s relationship to the person responsible for their welfare while in Australia (if applicable)
• A letter of consent from the person with parental responsibility for the child (if applicable)
• Evidence of the purpose of the visit, such as a letter of invitation from a host in Australia or confirmation of travel arrangements
• Evidence of sufficient financial means to support the child’s stay in Australia, such as bank statements or pay stubs
• Complete the visa application: Once you have gathered all of the necessary documents, you will need to complete the online visa application form. You may be required to provide additional information or documents during the application process.
• Pay the visa application fee: You will need to pay a fee to apply for a visitor visa for a child under 18. The amount of the fee will depend on the specific circumstances of your application.
• Submit the application: Once you have completed the application form and paid the fee, you will need to submit the application. You may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information or documents as part of the application process.
• Wait for a decision: Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a decision to be made. The processing time for a visitor visa for a child under 18 can vary, so it is important to plan ahead and apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

How to fill out form 1229

This is the form that needs to filled out if one parent of the child will not be accompanying the child to Australia. It does depend on your custody orders so double check the form to see if it applies to you. Otherwise, it’s a pretty straightforward form, requiring the details of the child and their parents.

Overall, obtaining a visitor visa for a child under 18 to Australia requires careful planning and attention to detail. By gathering the necessary documents and completing the application process accurately, you can increase your chances of success in obtaining a visa for your child.

• Family and Parent Visitor Visas
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Visas to visit Australia

Whether you are visiting Australia for less than 72 hours or planning on a stay of several years you must have a valid Australian visa.

A visa is a form of permission for a non-citizen to enter, transit or remain in a particular country.

Information on visas to Australia can be found at the Department of Home Affairs .

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Visas and Migration

Latest news.

For the latest immigration and citizenship news, see  News - Archive . 

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app which you can download for free from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android) . For more information, see our Step by step guide .  There is no Visa Application Charge (VAC) for an ETA, however there is an application service fee of AUD20 to use the Australian ETA app. European passport holders may be eligible for an eVisitor (subclass 651) . Don’t be Scammed We are aware of third-party websites purporting to be associated with the Department of Home Affairs (the Department), charging exorbitant fees to lodge ETAs on behalf of visa applicants. Be aware that you are being scammed if:

• you apply for your ETA via a website – ETAs can only be applied for using the ETA app 
• you pay more than AUD20 to lodge the application
• you are told to pay extra fees for premium service or extra charges for ‘expedited’ visa processing
• the information you are relying on hasn’t come from an official website ending in .gov.au

Some of the known websites which are not official Department-approved platforms to make an ETA application are:

• https://www.jsdimmigrations.com  
• https://www.jsdvisa.com  
• https://australiaevisas.org  
• https://australiavacationsonline.com
• https://www.ivisa.com/

If you choose to use one of these third-party websites, you risk:

• losing any upfront cash that you have paid to the agent
• having your ETA refused
• not being permitted on the flight to Australia
• being refused entry to Australia at the Australian border by the  Australian Border Force

In order to protect yourself from visa scams, you should only deal with reputable travel agents, or official Australian Government channels via the Department of Home Affairs website .

If you are aware of, or suspect a scam in relation to ETAs, or other visas to Australia, please report it to Australia's Border Watch by visiting homeaffairs.gov.au/report .

Information on visas to Australia can be found on the  Department of Home Affairs website .

Explore visa options  on the department's website to help you find the visa most likely to meet your specific circumstances.

Visa applications, fees & processing times

Most visa applications can be lodged online by creating an  ImmiAccount . This is our preferred method of visa lodgement to helps us process your application faster.

If you are lodging an application in the US, please refer to the following information before submitting your application:

• Processing times
• Visa requirements  (health, character, biometrics)
• Translation of documents not in English

Please note, you should not book flights or make travel commitments until you have a valid visa to travel to Australia. The Department of Home Affairs will not be liable for any financial loss incurred by travellers whose visa application was finalised later than expected, or where an application is not successful.

Visa and citizenship applications are managed by the Department of Home Affairs. Embassy staff are unable to assist with general visa or citizenship enquiries. 

The Department of Home Affairs website has the most up to date and comprehensive information on applying for visas and citizenship. The website also has useful definitions and tools to help you understand the department’s requirements. Visit the website at Immigration and citizenship .

If you are having trouble locating information on the department’s website, the Home Affairs Digital Assistant may be able to help. The Digital Assistant can help you find information on Australian visas, citizenship and border entry. Visit the  Immigration and citizenship  website and click the Ask a question   Digital Assistant button to get started.

Global Service Centre

If you require additional information, you may telephone the Global Service Centre on +61 2 6196 0196, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm your local time.

International calls may be subject to charges imposed by your local carrier. You may wish to consider using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider to avoid potentially high charges.

Using an interpreter

When you call the GSC, select option 6 to engage a Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) interpreter in your language. Option 6 can be selected straight after dialling the GSC number.

Alternatively, a TIS interpreter can also be engaged directly via:

•    TIS website:  Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) or

•    Home Affairs website See:  Family and friends helping with your application .

Compliments, complaints and suggestions

Your feedback is valuable to the Department of Home Affairs. The department uses your feedback to improve services and investigate and respond to any issues of concern. You can find more information on the department’s website at  Compliments, complaints and suggestions .

Allegations related to suspicious border activities

If it doesn’t feel right, flag it anonymously with Border Watch. Border Watch is the single collection point for the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border Force (ABF) for allegations related to suspicious border activities and is not limited to immigration and citizenship. One small observation could help stop a much larger border crime.  You can report suspicious immigration, customs and border related activity via the  Border Watch Online Report .

Beware of Visa Scams

To avoid being scammed, you can check the Register of Migration Agents on the  OMARA website , to receive the protections of an OMARA registered Migration Agent.

There are Australian registered migration agents working all around the world. These agents are subject to the same Code of Conduct, professional development and regulations as registered migration agents based in Australia. More information about Australia's efforts to ensure the integrity of the migration advice profession is available at:  www.mara.gov.au .

Further information on visa scams is available on the Department of Home Affairs website .

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Australia Visitor Visa: Requirements, Eligibility and Application Process

Updated: February 7, 2024

Australia Visitor Visa is the only option to visit Australia as a tourist for many nationalities. If you don’t qualify for either the Electronic Travel Authority(ETA) or the eVisitor Visa, then you will need to get a Visitor Visa.

Australia no longer accepts paper applications for the visitor visa. All applications must be lodged online through the Australian Government Immi Portal.

The Visitor Visa has subclass 600 in Australia’s visa documentation and the subtype we’re interested in is the “Tourist stream (apply outside Australia)”.

Quick summary:

• Eligibility: All nationalities are eligible
• Validity: Valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years with single or multiple entries
• Duration of stay: Generally, 3 months allowed stay, but up to 6 or 12 in some cases
• Visa fee: Visitors visa fee is 190 AUD
• Processing time: 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% in 21 days.

If you haven’t already, read the  Australia Visa Guide  to familiarize yourself with Australian tourist visa types, requirements, eligibility and entry procedures at the border.

Table of Contents

Understanding australia visitor visa.

Visitor visa validity

The Australian Visitor visa is valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years from the date of issue. The validity of the visa depends on your nationality and circumstances. For example, most Indian passport holders get a 3-year valid Australian visa, whereas Phillippine passport holders get a 1-year valid visa. Pakistan nationals get a 6-month validity.

You must visit Australia within the validity of your visa.

Duration of stay

Most Visitor visas granted allow for 3 months of continuous stay in Australia. Depending on circumstances, you might be granted a stay of 6 months or even 12 months.

Allowed number of entries

Most Visitor visas are multiple-entry , but Home Affairs also issues single visas in certain circumstances for certain nationalities.

When to apply

Since the tourist visas are valid for at least 3 months, it’s a good idea to apply well in advance. Most applications get processed in 3 weeks or fewer.

Visa extension

Australia Visitor visa is non-extendable . If you need to  extend your stay in Australia , you are allowed to apply for another Visitor Visa (onshore) from within the country.

Australia Visitor Visa Requirements

Who requires a Visitor Visa?

Australia Visitor Visa is REQUIRED for all nationalities to enter Australia as a tourist, except for the below.

• New Zealand passport holders
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• eVisitor Visa
• Those transiting in Australia for less than 72 hours and can get a Transit visa .

Documents required

To support your application, you can attach as many as 60 documents online. You don’t have to attach that many but the more documents you provide, the better your chances of approval.

You have to satisfy the Home Office that:

• You are who you say you are
• You are a genuine visitor who will not overstay or work illegally
• You are of good character and not have a criminal record
• You won’t be a burden to Australia’s healthcare system

To do this, attach as many of these documents as you can :

Identity documents

• Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of the stay)
• Valid National ID card (if from a country that issues them)
• marriage or divorce certificate;
• change of name documents;
• documents that show other names you have been known by
• Residence Permit/Visa (if residence and citizenship differ)
• One passport-size photo

Genuine visitor documents

• Itemized personal bank statements for the last 3 months. Aim to have at least 5000 AUD in your bank account. The money cannot be deposited suddenly and inexplicably – it should be from legitimate sources and savings over time.
• Tax returns
• Credit card statements
• their relationship to you
• the purpose of your visit and length of stay
• if you will be staying with them
• Proof of their funds (if they will be paying for your stay)
• Your plans or travel itinerary while in Australia  
• a letter from your employer stating you plan to return to your job
• proof that you study at a school, college or university in your home country
• proof that you have immediate family members in your home country
• proof that you own a house or other major assets in your home country;
• Confirmed return flight ticket;
• Health Insurance

At a later date, you may be required to obtain and submit the following:

• Medical Certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

All non-English documents (except for police certificates) must be translated into English and all documents’ copies (both original and translations) must be certified.

Photo requirements

You need one passport-size digital photo for the Visitor Visa application. The photo must meet the following requirements. 

• Taken in the last 6 months
• Showing your head and shoulders against a plain background
• Neutral facial expression with mouth closed, eyes open, and looking at the camera
• Religious head coverings are allowed but must not obscure the face
• Piercing is allowed but must not cause any reflections or shadows

There is no official guidance for the size and resolution of pictures uploaded online but the file type must be JPG. You will get to move the photo to position your face within a frame.

As long as the picture is clear, crisp, and not excessively big, it will be accepted.

Visitor visa fee

The Australian Tourist Visa application fee is 190 AUD , payable online.

You may also have to pay for:

• Health checks
• Police certificates

Processing time

Australian immigration reports that 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% are processed in 21 days . These periods start after you submit your biometrics (if required).

Visitor Visa Application Process

How to apply

You must apply for your tourist visa online through the Immi Portal. Applying on paper is not possible for the visitor visa anymore. Follow the below steps:

• Go to the ImmiAccount portal and create an account
• Click on “New application” and pick “Visitor Visa (600)”.
• Enter your personal information, passport details, employment details and financial information
• Upload your documents such as passport, photo, etc.
• Pay the required visa fee
• Submit the application

The Visitor Visa is part of Australia’s biometrics program. If you apply for a Visitor Visa from any of the below countries, regardless of your nationality, you must give your biometrics.

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kazakhstan 
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates

If you apply from one of these countries, you will receive an email informing you that you need to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) to have your biometrics collected. The biometrics are usually a face photo and fingerprint scan.

You must complete the biometrics procedure within 14 days of getting this email otherwise your application becomes void without a refund!

AABCs are typically managed by VFS Global. They charge a service fee for biometric collection. This fee depends on AABC and the country you are applying from.

For example, the biometric service at AABC in Dubai, UAE is AED 109.17. The biometric service fee at AABC in Manila, Philippines is PHP 557.

How to schedule biometric appointment?

Within 24 hours of applying for your Visitor Visa, you will receive an email with a biometric request letter from Home Affairs. Follow these steps to schedule your biometric appointment.

Find the nearest ABCC to you and follow the prompts to schedule your biometric appointment.

How to attend biometric appointment?

Follow the below steps to attend your biometric appointment at an AABC.

• Arrive at the AABC at least 15 minutes before your appointment time
• Original passport
• Biometric appointment confirmation
• Biometric fee receipt and
• Biometric request letter received in the email from Home Affairs
• Your facial photo is taken and your 10 fingertips are scanned

What if you can’t attend your appointment?

If you can’t make an appointment, you can reschedule your appointment up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment date and time. You can reschedule up to 2 times.

What if you miss your appointment?

If you miss your scheduled appointment, you will lose the fee paid as the biometric fee is nonrefundable. You will also have to wait 24 hours to schedule a new appointment.

How to track status

You will receive the status of your application in your email. You can also track the status of the visa in your ImmiAccount.

How to download approved visa

When your Visitor Visa is approved, you will receive a grant letter in your email from Home Affairs. The grant letter is your Visitor Visa.

The Visitor visa is electronically linked to your passport, so you don’t need to download or print your Visitor Visa.

If you’re ever asked to show any proof, you can use the Grant Notification you received in your email. You can also download it from your ImmiAccount under “Visa Grant Details”.

How to check the validity of your Visitor Visa

The expiration date of your Australia eVisitor visa is indicated as “Must not arrive after” on the visa letter. If you lost your grant letter or don’t have a copy of your Visitor Visa, you can check the validity details on the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) portal by using either your Visa Grant Number or Transaction Reference Number.

Customer service

Refer to the Self-help Guidelines for information to troubleshoot any issues. If facing issues with your ImmiAccount or the Visitor visa application, contact customer service using the below webform

Web: ImmiAccount Technical Support Form

Procedure at the border

The Visitor Visa is digitally attached to your passport so you don’t need to print anything. When you enter Australia, simply present your passport and be ready to answer a few basic questions about your visit.

Eligible passport holders can use the Smart Gates for faster arrival and departure procedures.

All visitors including Australian citizens are required to fill out an Incoming Passenger Card on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get an australian tourist visa.

It can take up to 3 weeks to get an Australian tourist visa, especially if submitting your biometrics. It can be faster or slower depending on where you are applying from, your circumstances and the number of documents you submit.

How hard is it to get a tourist visa to Australia?

It is easy to get a tourist visa to Australia if you submit a complete application with as many documents. You must convince the Home Office that you won’t overstay or break the conditions of the visa.

How much bank balance is required for Australia tourist visa?

Australian Home Office doesn’t specify the minimum bank balance required for a tourist visa. Your bank account must show continuous cash flow and not a lump sum deposited recently. 

Based on the reports from travelers reports and recommendations from embassies, you should aim for at least 5,000 AUD in your bank account when you apply.

Can you get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia?

Yes, you can get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia if are from an eligible country and meet the requirements. Australian Visitor Visa is issued for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years depending on your nationality and circumstances. For example, Indian nationals can get an Australian tourist visa valid for 3 years.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Australia's Child Visas: Securing the Future of Young Lives

Welcome to the definitive guide on Australia’s Child Visas, your compass in the journey to provide a nurturing family environment for children. Our guide explores various child visa categories, outlining their purposes, application processes, and impacts. These visas embody Australia’s commitment to children’s welfare and rights. If you’re looking to offer a stable home or support a child, our guide will provide clear, empathetic information throughout.

Child Visa (Subclass 101)

The Child Visa (Subclass 101) reunites families, enabling overseas children to join their parents in Australia. It promotes family unity and support, offering children access to education and healthcare. This visa creates a path for children to build bright futures in Australia, under their parents’ care, strengthening family bonds and enriching Australian society.

Who it’s for: Children outside Australia, aiming to join their parents who are Australian citizens, eligible New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent visa holders.

Stay: Offers permanent residency in Australia.

Key Features:

• Enables children to migrate as permanent residents.
• Provides access to education and Medicare.
• Potentially leads to Australian citizenship.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Children must depend on a parent who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent visa holder.
• Age criteria: under 18 years, full-time students aged 18 to 25 who depend financially on their parent, or those over 18 who are unable to work due to a disability.
• Applicants must be single and dependent, applying from outside Australia.

Child Visa (Subclass 802)

The Child Visa (Subclass 802) offers children in Australia a path to permanent residency and stable family life. It caters to children wishing to live with their Australian-citizen or permanent-resident parents. The visa supports their education, healthcare access, and potential citizenship.

Who it’s for: Children in Australia wanting to stay permanently with their parents, who are Australian citizens, eligible New Zealand citizens, or Australian permanent visa holders.

Stay: Grants permanent residency.

• Allows children to stay as permanent residents.
• Offers access to education and Medicare.
• Children may apply for Australian citizenship.
• Age criteria: under 18 years, full-time students aged 18 to 25, or those over 18 who cannot work due to a disability.
• Applications must be made and decided while the child is in Australia.

Adoption Visa (Subclass 102)

he Adoption Visa (Subclass 102) enables internationally adopted children to join their Australian families. It provides a stable home, education, and healthcare. This visa fosters nurturing family environments and helps children integrate into Australian society, offering permanent residency and potential citizenship.

Who’s it for: Children adopted outside Australia, joining their adoptive Australian parents.

Stay: Confers permanent residency.

• Grants permanent residency to adopted children.
• Ensures access to education and Medicare.
• Opens the path to Australian citizenship.
• Children must have been under 18 at the time of adoption, application, and visa decision.
• Applications and decisions must be made when the child is outside Australia.
• The child must be adopted, or in the adoption process, by the sponsoring parent.

Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445)

The Dependent Child Visa (Subclass 445) sustains family unity during a parent’s migration process. It enables dependent children to accompany their parents to Australia, ensuring continuity in their education and personal development. This temporary visa plays a key role in keeping families together during complex migration periods.

Who’s it for: Children joining or accompanying parents in Australia during their permanent Partner visa process.

Stay: Temporary, until the parent’s permanent visa decision.

• Allows children to join or remain with their parents in Australia.
• Permits travel, work, and study in Australia.
• Ensures the child’s welfare during the parent’s visa process.
• Children must depend on a visa-holding parent.
• They must be sponsored by the parent’s visa nominator or sponsor.

Orphan Relative Visas (Subclass 117) - Sheltering Orphans Globally

The Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117) offers a compassionate route for orphaned children to unite with relatives in Australia. It provides these vulnerable children with security, care, and stability. This visa ensures the well-being of children who have lost parental care and facilitates their integration into Australian society as permanent residents.

Who’s it for: Orphaned children seeking a stable home with relatives in Australia.

Tourist visa to Australia for US Citizens

Key aspects.

Cheapest and fastest visa for touristic purposes.

Visa Duration

12 months total, up to 90 days each visit .

Approval time

95% of tourist visas are granted within 24 hours .

If you are planning a visit to Australia for holiday, as a US citizen you will need an Australian tourist visa (also known as “Australian vacation visa”) .

A tourist visa for Australia is technically type of ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa: a visa that you simply apply for online without having to fill in a paper form or send in your passport to any embassy. This is why a touristic ETA permit is sometimes referred to also as “electronic tourist visa” or “e-tourist” visa : filling the Australian tourist visa form directly online is all there is to do .

To be able to apply for an Australian Tourist Visa you must be travelling to Australia for holiday or for visiting friends or family, and hold a valid passport.

In-depth information on Australian Tourist Visas

• Tourist Visas for Australia for American Citizens
• Australian Tourist Visa: How to Apply
• Tourist Visa Requirements for Americans
• Process and Processing Time of Australian Tourist Visas
• Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visas

Types of Australian Tourist Visas (Alternatives to Australian Touristic ETA)

Re-entry, renewal and extension of australian tourist visas, working in australia with a tourist visa, getting married in australia on a tourist visa, australian tourist visa: costs and fees, tourist visas for australia available to american citizens.

A standard Australian tourist visa ( Electronic Travel Authorization ) authorizes visits of up to three months at a time and is valid for 12 months after the date of issue. Unlike traditional visas, there are no paper applications to complete, and you will have no visa labels or stamps in your passport. Instead, your tourist visa for Australia will be electronically attached to your passport.

United States’ citizens can apply for a tourist visa to Australia using their passport , and the passport number will then be linked to the visa. If you lose your passport or it is stolen before you enter Australia, you will need to re-apply for a new vacation visa.

Apart from the standard ETA tourism visa, there are a few more specific tourist visa types one can request in order to travel to Australia as a tourist: if you feel an ETA does not satisfy your needs, you will need to determine the most appropriate visa for you among other visa options.

The most common short-stay tourist visa types for Australia are:

• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 601
• Work and Holiday Visa – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 462
• Tourist stream – formally known as Australian Visa Subclass 600

Online Tourist Visa for Australia (ETA e-Tourist)

An e-tourist visa, which is also called an ETA, is a subclass 601 visa . You can use this visa to tour Australia, visit family or friends or study or train for short-term. Business visitors can also use this visa for short-term. An ETA tourist visa is a temporary visa that is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, and it is a multiple entry visa. For each entry, you can stay up to 3 months.

You can enter and leave as many times as you want as long as it is valid. However, the ETA cannot be extended: you must get another Australian tourist visa if you want to extend your holiday or stay longer for other reasons. U.S. passport holders who are planning trips shorter than 90 days are almost always immediately eligible for electronic tourist visas (ETAs) , which will be electronically matched to the traveler’s passport in the Australian immigration official databases.

More info on Online Tourist Visas for Australia (ETA) – updated for 2024:

• Both passport holders and travel agents can apply for ETAs.
• Overstaying a short stay tourist visa in Australia could lead to exclusion, detention and removal. If you plan to stay in Australia longer than 3 months per entry, please make sure you apply instead for the Long Term visa, subclass 600.
• Once you have your online tourist visa for Australia, you can use your e-passport at the SmartGate system when you arrive in Australia.

If you are not sure what tourist visa to apply for, we recommend you apply for this kind of visa .

Tourist Stream (Subclass 600)

The Tourist Stream visa is an alternative to the ETA tourist visa, but typically slower . Getting this holiday visa for Australia, you can visit family and friends, travel the country, and study or train for up to 3 months. This visa may be valid for between three months and 12 months, and you can request it for single entry or multiple entries. You can enter and leave as often as you want as long as the Tourist Stream is valid, but you may not stay more than 12 months during 18 months. This visa is also typically more expensive than an ETA and takes longer to process . Also, immigration office can request more documents from the applicant, for example a scanned copy of passport ID page or bank statement. In general, whenever possible we recommend applying for a Tourist ETA, for a faster – 100% online – visa release process.

Work and Holiday Visa Subclass 462

Getting a tourist visa for Australia also allowing you to work is possible: this is what an Australian Work and Holiday Visa is for , as this permits allows you to work during your stay in Australia, and to travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while working or studying.

With a work and holiday visa (often referred to also as “working holiday visa”) you can have the freedom to work to pay for your holiday, or study for up to 4 months . It is a temporary visa that is valid for up to 12 months from the date you enter the country. It cannot be extended. You can remain in the country up to 12 months, and you can leave and enter Australia as often as you like. Read more about work and holiday visas for Australia .

• Apply for WHV now

Additional type-independent Australian Tourist Visa Information:

• Regardless of the type of 2024 Australian tourist visa or ETA you need, it is highly recommended that you get health insuranc e to protect you during your time in Australia. You will be responsible for any healthcare costs that you incur while you are in Australia, and proper insurance coverage will help reduce your financial liability.
• Visas are electronically linked to your passport. There is no need for stamps or labels .
• Simplify the process by applying for your ETA tourist for Australia directly online as soon as possible .

Australian Tourist Visa for US Citizens: How to Apply

U.S. citizens need visas to travel to Australia. An Australian tourist visa requested from the USA via Electronic Travel Authorization will allow you to enter Australia for up to 90 days at a time for a year from the date of issue. After the first visit, subsequent visits are at the immigration officer’s discretion.

Getting a Tourist Visa to Australia from the USA

In order to get a tourist visa to Australia from USA you must have a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months upon entering Australia in order to comply with the requirements of most airlines flying to Australia – even though not strictly required by Australian Immigration Office) and obtain your US tourist visa to Australia before arriving in the country.

You may also need to complete a medical exam depending on your condition (any medical requirement – if needed – will be specified during the online application process). Visitors may also need to provide financial information upon request to receive their tourist visa. Also in this case, any requirement – if needed – will be specified during the online application process .

It is easy to apply for a tourist visa to Australia from the USA online: simply choose the right visa for your needs and follow the instructions on-screen. Most visa requests are processed and approved instantly .

Australian Tourist Visa Requirements for Americans

The conditions and eligibility for visas can vary based on the type of visa. Most U.S. citizens are eligible for ETAs as long as they hold valid passports.

US Passport Validity and Photo Requirements

We strongly recommend that your US passport be valid for at least 6 months upon entering Australia . This is why if your passport is due to expire soon or during the time you will be travelling, you may need to get a new passport before applying. Australian tourist visa photo requirements are similar to passport photos. Please ensure your photos are accurate and current.

Documents Required to US Citizens for an Australian Tourist Visa

The document checklist can vary based on the type of visa requested: with an ETA, you will only need your passport, and the ETA permit will be electronically attached to your passport.

For other visa types, you may be asked for other identification, including the biographical pages of your passport, travel documents and the IDs of your fellow travelers. Other required documents may be requested if authorities are not satisfied as to your identity.

Funds Required for an Australian Tourist Visa

When travelling to Australia, you may be required to show proof of funds. This can include displaying a minimum bank balance on your bank statement, audits, taxation records or other proof of satisfactory employment and income. After the application is processed, in the rare case a bank statement is required by Australian Immigration in order to verify your bank balance, an immigration officer will contact you .

Medical Requirements for an Australian Travel Visa

If you are applying for a non-ETA Australian visa and plan on staying in Australia for more than 6 months, you might be required to complete a health check and a chest X-ray. This can extend your visa application process up to 20 days. You are more likely to be required to complete a medical test if you are from a high-risk area or are over 75. In these cases, Yellow Fever is the only vaccination requirement.

Australian Tourist Visa Age Limits for American Citizens

For US passport holders willing to travel from USA to Australia there is no age limit on tourist visas . Of course, anyone who is travelling to Australia without an Australian passport will need a visa on arrival – and for a child under 18, the ETA will be based on the child’s passport. This means children will need separate ETAs, using details from their passports (children who are on their parents’ passports also need their own ETAs, but the information from their parents’ passport will be used).

Process and Processing Time for Australian Tourist Visas

Visa processing time for an australian eta tourist visa (subclass 601).

The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is the most commonly used Australian Tourist Visa. The process can be completed online and requires no extra application forms, no visa labels and no passport stamps.

To be eligible for and maintain your instant Australian tourist visa, you must abide by specific conditions, including – in order:

• Being free of criminal convictions
• Passing a health check as required
• Departing within the required time period
• Not working during your time in Australia
• Not engaging in study or training for more than three months

In general, the Australian tourist visa processing time for a Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) can take from 48 hours to more than a month . A Tourist ETA though – which is the most common type of tourist visa – has a much lower estimated waiting time, as it is much faster to process. An ETA e-visa for tourists can often be requested and issued just days before your planned visit . It is a 100 percent secure, paperless process, and the visa will be electronically linked to your passport just moments after it has been issued.

However, we always recommend to request your Touristic ETA Visa at least a few weeks before departure , to avoid any risk. Don’t worry though – with an ETA, you can also track your application online via an online tracking system.

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600) Processing Time

The amount of time taken for an Australian tourist visa to be processed can vary based on how promptly you supply the supporting documents, your response to requests for further information, how long it takes to verify your information and peak processing times.

Also, the Australia tourist visa process is quite straightforward:

• Check that your current U.S. passport is valid.
• Apply for your visa.
• Wait for verification of receipt.
• Wait for notification of your status.

If the Australian tourist visa procedure was successful, you will be granted a visa. You can keep track of your progress using the online Australia tourist visa tracking system.

The maximum processing time for a conventional Australian tourist visa (Subclass 600) is about a month , with the waiting time ranging from 20 to 33 days in the vast majority of cases. For fast-tracked visas or ETAs, the waiting time can be mere minutes or days, especially if you have all the necessary documentation to complete the verification time.

Finally, as far as Work and Holiday Visa Processing Times are concerned, we recommend you check the dedicated page on this site .

Duration and Validity of an Australia Tourist Visa

Tourist visas are valid for varying periods of time, depending on the type of visa.

The ETA is a 12-month tourist visa . It is a popular visa, but it is limited regarding the length of stay and only allows visitors to remain in Australia for 3 months or 90 days at a time . You can enter as often as you like as long during the one year the tourist visa is valid.

For a visit of longer duration or if you want to stay more than 3 months during any period, you will need a different Australian visa. The tourist visa stream (Subclass 600) has a length and duration that can vary based on the purpose of the stay. In most cases though, Australian tourist visa validity lasts at least 12 months .

As an example, the Australian e600 visitor visa is a 6-month tourist visa for Australia. It also allows you to stay in the country up to one year depending on the reasons for your visit. You can also enter and leave the country as needed as long as the visa is valid.

The subclass 870 visa instead is a longer-term 3-year tourist visa specifically designed for parents. With it, parents can stay in Australia for 3 or 5 years and no more than 10 years. This allows them to enter and re-enter Australia as needed to visit their stepchildren, adopted children or biological children more conveniently and affordably.

Whether you are planning an Australian trip that lasts 2 weeks, 90 days or even a year, there is a visa designed to suit your purpose. Check and apply online to find the right one for you or to explore samples of tourist visas.

There are several types of tourist visas in Australia that may apply if you do not qualify for a Tourist ETA or if the ETA does not suit you needs, such as a work and holiday visa or other types of Australian visas for tourism. Here they are:

Australian Work and Holiday Visa

Australian Tourist Stream Visa (Subclass 600 – Application form 1419)

The Australian tourist visa stream Subclass 600 (to which people apply using form n.1419) is a 6-month tourist visa for Australia. It also allows you to stay in the country up to one year depending on the reasons for your visit. You can also enter and leave the country as needed as long as the visa is valid.

Australian Visiting Academic Visa

The former Australia Tourist Visa 419 is closed to new applications for 2024 . However, the Tourist Visa Subclass 408 may be an alternative. This visa, which is also called the Temporary Activity Visa, allows you to participate in special approved programs, including:

• Gap year volunteer work
• Cultural enrichment programs
• Youth exchanges
• Community programs
• School language assistants

This visa is valid for up to 12 months.

Australia Tourist Visa 771 (Australia Transit Visa)

Also known as the Australian Transit Visa, this visa allows people to spend up to 72 hours in Australia to “pass through”. With this visa, you may not spend more than 72 hours in the country.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about re-entering Australia with a tourist visa, about extending your stay in Australia as a tourist or about renewing your tourist visa while you are in Australia.

Is the Australian tourist visa multiple entry?

The Australian ETA is good for 90 days at a time, also allowing multiple-entries . This means that within one year sinve when the ETA Tourist visa has been issued you can enter, leav and re-enter Australia as many times as you wish – as long as each entry lasts a maximum of 90 days.

However, if your current visa is due to expire while you are still in the country, you will need to apply for an Australian tourist visa renewal, via a Long-stay tourist visa application .

What happens if I stay too long and my Australian tourist visa has expired?

Overstaying your stay with a tourist visa in Australia will result in your becoming an “unlawful non-citizen” – which can lead to detention and removal from the country. Worse, it could interfere with your ability to re-enter Australia on a tourist visa in the future. If you overstay your visa by more than 28 days, you could even become excluded and prevented from re-entering Australia on a tourist visa for as long as 3 years. Don’t do it.

Can I change my Australian visa once I am in the country?

No, you cannot change your visa type , such as an Australia tourist visa multiple entry, once you are in the country. However, you can apply for a further stay via the Long-Stay Tourist Visa, subclass 676.

What are my other options for extending my tourist visa?

Because the consequences of an Australia tourist visa overstay can be so serious, it is critical that you apply for a tourist visa renewal or extension as soon as possible and before your visa has expired . Applying online is fast and convenient.

• Extend your visa

If you are planning to travel to Australia with a ETA Tourst Visa, you must know that it is not legal to work with an ETA . ETA-visitors have no right to “work”. However, they can do volunteer work or engage in other business activities, such as business meetings, conferences or seminars . Of course, you can stay in Australia on your tourist visa while looking for work, but once you found it you should obtain a different kind of visa in order to legally maintain your work.

However, working on a “tourist visa” in Australia is fairly common – especially for those who wish to work to pay for their holidays. If you want to legally work in Australia during your holiday though you will need a special, dedicated visa – not an ETA. This visa is called “ Work and Holiday Visa ” (often referred to also as “Working Holiday Visa”).

You can do any kind of work or jobs while on a tourist visa in Australia. However, your Work and Holiday Visa must be used within one year of the date it is issued, and it will be active for 12 months from the date you enter the country.

A working holiday visa cannot be extended: if you choose to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa. Additionally, you cannot bring dependent children or other family members with you, and you must pay taxes from anything you earn during your tourist visa working days.

The cost for a work and holiday tourist visa is of $ 625.00 as of 2024, but additional costs may also arise, including costs for police certificates, biometrics and health checks. Processing time can take from 13 to 22 days but may take longer if more information is needed or for verification purposes. Private health insurance coverage is highly recommended during your stay in the country. Read more about Work and Holiday Australian Visas for US Citizens here .

• Apply for a WHV

According to Australia Marriage Law, you do not need to be an Australian resident to get married in Australia . You simply need the tourist visa (e.g. visa subclass 651) and you must file a Notice of Intended Marriage form along with any other requested documents .

If you are planning on getting married in Australia on a tourist visa, your celebrant can help ensure you meet all necessary requirements , including that you:

• Are not married to anyone else
• Are not marrying to a closely related family member
• Are at least 18 years old
• Freely consent to the marriage

Notice that if you plan to live in Australia after marriage, you might need to apply for permanent residency as needed .

In order to obtain your Australian Tourist Visa, you will need to pay an application charge when applying for your visa – plus all costs related to the visa release. The total Australia tourist visa cost can therefore vary based on the type of visa and when you apply. Both paper applications and e-visas such as ETA tourist visa costs must be paid online , and forms of payment accepted are credit cards and PayPal.

While there are no Australia tourist visa fees associated with the ETA, there is an online service charge of $ 69.00 .

The cost of a Work and Holiday visa is instead of $ 625.00 .

The visa application fee may change periodically: if the Australian immigration tourist visa fees increase between the date of the application and the date of the receipt, the new fee will apply.

Australian Government official resources:

Travelling to Australia with children on an ETA or eVisitor visa

Anyone wishing to enter Australian territory needs to apply for and obtain a visa prior to departure. If you decide to travel to Australia and you’re not an Australian passport holder, you will need to get a visa for yourself and your family.

Many parents may wonder whether their children can be added to their visa or if they will need to apply for a separate travel authorisation. This article will explain how to travel to Australia with kids so that you will go through passport control hassle-free.

Do children need a visa for Australia?

All foreigners, regardless of their age, must hold a valid visa to enter the country. The type of Australian visa that you and your children will need to apply for will depend on your specific circumstances, nationality, and travel plans.

If you are visiting Australia for tourism short-term, the quickest and easiest visas you may be able to apply for are the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and the eVisitor visa.

At the border , each foreigner will need to present a printed copy of their visa to the border control officers together with the passport they used during the application and the Incoming Passenger Card they will have been provided with during travel.

Australian visas for minors: the ETA

The Australian ETA is an electronic permission to travel. This means that you won’t need to visit an Australian embassy or consulate and will be able to apply for your travel authorisation completely online .

As long as you have access to a reliable internet connection and keep your supporting documents at hand, you should be able to complete the ETA application in minutes.

Unless they hold an Australian passport, your children will need to apply for a separate ETA . Each minor will have to submit an individual ETA application and all applicants need to meet the visa requirements for Australia .

• Minor has their own passport : Help your child complete their separate ETA application and enter their passport details.
• Minor is on a parent’s passport :Help your child complete their individual ETA application. Enter your passport details — or the details of the passport where the minor is featured — but use the minor’s personal information (name, date of birth, country of birth) as they appear on the passport.

How can minors apply for the eVisitor visa for Australia?

The ETA travel authorisation and eVisitor visa for Australia are very similar in their requirements and application process. Again, the eVisitor application can be completed entirely online from anywhere in the world . You’ll only need your passport, a valid email address, the application fee, and relevant supporting documents.

All travellers need to submit a separate eVisitor application if they wish to travel to Australia with this visa. Therefore, all your children must complete an individual application.

The steps to complete an eVisitor application for a minor are the same as the ETA steps mentioned above.

Can I sponsor my child’s trip to Australia?

Please note that it’s not possible to sponsor family members on short-term visas like the ETA and eVisitor visas. As mentioned before, each family member must obtain their own travel permit.

However, in many cases, it’s possible for parents on permanent visas to sponsor their children for migration purposes to Australia. This is not an automatic process and there’s no guarantee that the application will be granted.

Besides meeting all the legal requirements for migration to Australia, the child must be:

• Natural, adopted, or stepchild of an Australian citizen or of the holder of an Australian permanent visa, or an eligible New Zealand citizen
• Dependant on the sponsor. This means that the child must depend completely or in great part on the sponsor for financial support
• Under 25 years of age when the application is submitted. If the child is over 18, they must also be a full-time student and financially dependent on the sponsor
• Unmarried, not engaged, and not in a de-facto relationship

When travelling to Australia with children, you should also ensure that you are up-to-date with any additional requirements.

Related Posts

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Travel to Australia with a criminal record

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Visitor visas

Find the best way to get a visitor visa for your next holiday or business trip to australia..

In this guide

Electronic Travel Authority visa (ETA)

Visitor visa (subclass 600), evisitor visa (subclass 651), what other visitor visas are available, what are the requirements for an australian visitor visa, how long do visas take to process, do i need a migration agent.

Unless you are an Australian citizen or a New Zealand passport holder, you will need to apply for a visa before visiting Australia for a holiday, business or short-term trip. Most visitors enter Australia on one of three visitor visas:

• Electronic Travel Authority

This page will explain the various visa types for visitors and tell you how to apply for them.

An Electronic Travel Authority allows applicants living outside Australia to visit the country for tourism or business. Travellers on an ETA visa are permitted to stay in Australia for a maximum of three months. The following conditions apply:

• Applicants must apply for the ETA online through the Australian government’s website .
• ETA visas cost $20. Applicants must pay by credit card.
• Yes. Every traveller must apply for their own ETA, including young children.

The visitor visa is a more flexible visa for visitors on short-term tourist and business trips. Eligible visitors can apply from inside and outside Australia, depending on the passport they hold. This visa:

• Applicant must apply for the visitor visa online through the Australian government's website .
• Costs between $145 and $1,065 depending on the trip length.
• Allows visitors to stay for between 3 and 12 months.

How is a visitor visa different from an ETA?

• The visitor visa has more flexible conditions for visitors, including length of trip and visa costs.
• Passport holders of some countries may be eligible for an ETA but not for a visitor visa, or vice versa.
• The visitor visa is also used by travellers from the People’s Republic of China on registered group tours.

The eVisitor visa is similar to the ETA. Applicants must be outside Australia when they apply online. Like the ETA, the eVisitor visa allows for visits of up to three months. This visa, unlike the ETA, is free.

Who can apply for an eVisitor visa?

• Visitors from 36 European countries, including France, Germany and the United Kingdom, can apply for eVisitor visas.
• You must apply for this visa from outside Australia.
• Applicants must apply for the ETA online through the Australian government's website .

Visitor visas summary

If you are unsure of what type of visitor visa you will require, you can visit the Australian immigration website for more details. Alternatively you can seek the advice of an authorised migration agent who will be able to advise you on the best visa for your situation.

There are a few other visitor visa options available. Most of the options will depend on which passport you hold as well as the purpose of your visit.

You can read more about working holiday visas in our work visa guide .

The requirements for an Australian visitor visa will depend on why you are planning to visit and how long you wish to stay. In all cases you must have a valid passport or travel document from an eligible country.

You should also consider the following:

• If you are visiting for medical reasons, you will need documents from medical professionals regarding the reasons for your treatments.
• Any visitor to Australia must be able to prove they are of good character to enter the country.
• For all visa applications, any official documents you are required to provide (such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of identity, etc.) will need to be certified by legal agencies of the country you live in and translated into English.
• In some cases you may need to prove your good character by providing a police clearance certificate or other evidence.

Visa processing times are dependent on the type of visitor visa you are applying for and your personal circumstances, such as your citizenship. Some visas may be processed on the same day; other visas will take up to two months. It is very important that you always ensure that you allow plenty of time for your visa to be processed before travelling.

You don’t need a migration agent to make a visitor visa application but an agent may be helpful in navigating the application process. A migration agent can advise on the right type of visa for you as well as ensuring you provide the correct documentation, which allows for a much smoother application.

Find a migration agent

Richard Whitten

Richard Whitten is a money editor at Finder, and has been covering home loans, property and personal finance for 6+ years. He has written for Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine and Homely; and has appeared on various radio shows nationwide. He holds a Certificate IV in mortgage broking and finance (RG 206), a Tier 1 Generic Knowledge certification and a Tier 2 General Advice Deposit Products (RG 146) certification.

More guides on Finder

A guide to Australia's work visas, their rules and conditions, which jobs are eligible and how to apply.

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16 Responses

Hi I want to inquire how can I apply for another new visit visa

You can get more information and apply here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600/tourist-stream-onshore

Hope this helps!

Hello. I want to visitor visa for my family. only 15 days. My real younger brother family is a citizenship holder I am 41 years old. Which documents are needed from my family to apply for Visitor Visa and fees?

Thanks for your comment and I hope you are well.

As your family will only visit for 15 days, your family can get a Visitor visa (subclass 600). As it says above, this visa is good for short term trips. Their eligibility will depend on the passport they hold. The costs is between $135 and $1,000 depending on the trip length and will be determined upon the actual visa application.

I hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.

Best, Nikki

My father-in-law, mother-in-law and sister-in-law wish to visit us in Australia under family sponsored short term (3 months) visiting visa in January 2020. Do they need to lodge 3 separate 1418 forms? Will the visa fee be 3*$135?

Hi Gitanjali,

Thanks for your comment and I hope you are doing well. It’s great to know that you’re family is visiting!

They would need to lodge separate 1418 forms which means they would pay $135 each. Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.

My second cousin has recently been granted tourist visa 600 from October 2019 for 3 moths stay with multiple entries. She financially supports herself but staying at my place in Oz. Can my mum still apply for a visitor visa to visit me as well?

Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.

Yes, your mum can still apply for the visitor visa to visit you in Australia.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and have a wonderful day!

Cheers, Jeni

I’m a guarantor for a visitors visa Can I cancel guarantee if I want too

Thanks for your message. I wish I could help you further however, the information on our page is limited regarding guarantor for a visitor visa. While we review visitor visas in our pages, it’s helpful to know that we don’t work with the Australian Embassy. It would be best to contact them directly for further assistance. You can find their contact details when you visit their website.

Hope this clarifies and we hope they find a quick resolution for you!

With care, Nikki

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Child Visas for Australia

This main short-term / tourist visa for adults and children lets you visit Australia for up to three, six or 12 months as a visitor / to visit family (as well as for business visitor purposes).

Subclass 600 for children younger than 18 years of age If you are younger than 18 years of age, you must provide evidence that every person with a legal right to decide where you live consents to your travel to Australia on this visa. If you will not have one or both parents come with you, you must provide:

• a statutory declaration giving their permission (Form 1229 Consent form to grant an Australian visa to a child under the age of 18 years)

If you use Form 1229 Consent form, you will have to attach a certified copy of your parent's or guardian's government-issued identification document (such as a passport or driver's licence) with their photograph and their signature.

If you are younger than 18 years of age and you will stay in Australia with someone other than a parent, legal guardian or relative, you must provide:

• a declaration signed by the person who will be responsible for you in Australia (Form 1257 Undertaking declaration)

Child Visa (Subclass 101)

Lets an eligible parent sponsor their child to live in Australia indefinitely. The parent can apply on behalf of a child younger than 18 years of age.

An eligible parent is:

• an Australian citizen
• the holder of an Australian permanent resident visa
• an eligible New Zealand citizen.

To get this visa, the child must be:

• sponsored by their parent or their parent's partner
• younger than 18 years of age, or: a full-time student between 18 and 25 years of age, or 18 or older and unable to work due to a disability and dependent on the sponsoring parent.

This is a permanent residence visa. It allows the child to:

• travel to and stay in Australia indefinitely
• work and study in Australia
• enrol in Medicare, Australia's scheme for health-related care and expenses
• apply for Australian citizenship (if they are eligible)
• sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
• travel to and from Australia for five years from the date the visa is granted - after that time they will need another visa to enter Australia.

The visa application must be lodged outside Australia and the child must be outside Australia when the visa is decided.

Children born in Australia are automatically granted Australian citizenship if at least one parent is either an Australian citizen or the holder of an Australian permanent resident visa. They do not need a visa to live in Australia. Children born outside Australia must either:

• apply for a permanent visa to live in Australia (if neither parent is an Australian citizen)
• apply for Australian citizenship (if at least one parent is an Australian citizen).

Child Visa (Subclass 802)

Lets an eligible parent sponsor their child to live in Australia indefinitely. The child must be in Australia when the application is lodged and when the visa is granted. The parent can apply on behalf of a child younger than 18 years of age.

Dependent Child Visa (subclass 445)

This temporary visa allows a child to travel to and from or stay in Australia until their parent's permanent Partner visa is finalised.  This visa is required if the child is to be added to a permanent Partner visa application after a temporary Partner visa has been granted to their parent. The child can be in or outside Australia when they apply for this visa. Additional requirements apply.

Child Adoption Visa (subclass 102)

If you want to adopt a child from outside Australia, you must apply for an Adoption visa (subclass 102) on behalf of the child. An adopted child can be granted a Child visa (subclass 101) if they were adopted before the eligible parent became the holder of an Australian permanent resident visa, an Australian citizen, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. 

Child Student Visas:

Schools (Subclass 571)  - You might be able to get this visa if you are enrolled as a full-time student at a primary or secondary school or participating in a secondary school exchange program.

Independent ELICOS (Subclass 570)   - You might be able to get this visa if you are enrolled as a student in a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS).

Child Visa Processing You need to provide documents to prove the claims you make in the application. The documents are listed in the Document checklist. Some documents could take some time to obtain. You should have them ready when you lodge the application to reduce any delays in processing.

You must complete two forms and lodge them together. The forms must be completed in English. You must provide all relevant documents and pay the visa application charge when you apply.

It is in your interest to provide as much information as possible with your application. Provide certified copies of original documents. Do not include original documents unless you are specifically ask for them. Police certificates should be original documents. Documents not in English must be accompanied by accredited English translations.

• Two recent passport-sized photographs (45 mm x 35 mm) of the child (four photos if health examinations have not been completed). These photographs should be of the head and shoulders only against a plain background. Print the name of the child on the back of each photograph.
• Certified copy of the child's birth registration showing both parents' names. If you cannot get this document, provide a certified copy of the identification pages of at least one of the following documents:
• family book showing both parents' names
• identification document issued by the government
• document issued by a court that verifies the child's identity.
• If the child was adopted before the parent became an Australia citizen, holder of an Australian permanent resident visa or an eligible New Zealand citizen, certified copies of the adoption papers or the Adoption Compliance Certificate.

If the child is over 18:

• If the child is enrolled as a full-time student: evidence of their enrolment and active participation in a post-secondary course of study
• An explanation of a gap of more than six months in study between finishing the final year of secondary school and starting further studies.
• Evidence that the child is financially dependent on their sponsor for their basic needs of food, shelter and clothing, and how long this support has been provided. Evidence could include: bank statements, money transfers, rent receipts.
• If the child is claiming to have a disability: evidence from a qualified medical practitioner that the child has total or partial loss of bodily or mental functions and this stops them from working

Evidence that the child's parent is an Australian citizen, has an Australian permanent resident visa, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. Evidence can include a certified copy of:

• their birth certificate
• an Australian passport or foreign passport containing evidence of permanent residence or Australian citizenship certificate
• for New Zealand citizens, evidence of length of residence in Australia and of continuing links with Australia.

Evidence that the sponsor has the legal right to decide where the child is to live.

How long does it take? The visa processing time service standards differs for each visa. The application could take longer if the child needs character or health checks (including x-rays), one needs to provide more information, or the application is incomplete. Do not arrange for the child to travel to Australia until you are advised in writing that the visa has been granted.

Additional documents for the Sponsored Family stream

• Form 1149 Application for sponsorship fo Application for sponsorship for Sponsored Family Visitors - completed by an eligible sponsor
• Certified copies of marriage certificates or relationship registrations for you, your partner or anyone else included in your application, even if they are not joining you in Australia.
• If you are living in a de facto relationship: independent evidence that you have been in the relationship for at least 12 months.
• If you or anyone included in the application has been widowed, divorced or permanently separated: a certified copy of the death certificate, divorce decree absolute, or statutory declaration/separation certificate.
• Evidence of dependency for all dependants aged 18 or older (such as evidence of current studies):
• a certified copy of their birth certificate and proof of their relationship to you
• proof that the relative lives in your household
• proof that your relative has been dependent on you for at least the 12 months immediately before you lodge your application.

Links to Related Information:

• Australia Visa - General information
• Student Visa for Australia
• Family Visas for Australia
• Work Visa for Australia

Embassy Contact Information: Contact the nearest Embassy / Consulate for Australia for the most up-to-date information on what documentation you specifically may require to enter Australia.

Disclaimer: The contents of this page and other such web pages on this website are provided in good faith as a general information guide only, and the use of this website as an information resource or other is at the viewer/user's sole risk. While every effort is made in presenting up-to-date and accurate information, no responsibility or liability is accepted by the owners to this website for any errors, omissions, outdated or misleading information on these pages or any other website to which these pages connect or are linked.

Source & Copyright: The source of the above visa and immigration information and copyright owner/s is:

• https://www.immi.gov.au

The viewer/user of this web page should use the above information as a guideline only, and should always contact the above sources or the user's own government representatives for the most up-to-date information at that moment in time, before making a final decision to travel to that country or destination.

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Parents or Custodians of Under 18 Years Students

I have a good friend living in sydney can they be my child's guardian.

International students under 18 years of age can meet visa requirements in the following ways:

Option 1: Live in Australia with a parent or custodian. When your child applies for their student visa, a parent or legal custodian must hold or have applied for a visa that allows him or her to remain in Australia until your child turns 18. They can for example apply for a short stay visitor visa or a Student Guardian visa.

Option 2: Live in Australia with a relative approved by Department of Home Affairs . A relative can be your child's sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, niece or nephew. He or she must be over 21 years of age and of good character, and hold or have applied for a visa that allows him or her to stay in Australia until your child turns 18. They can for example apply for a short stay visitor visa or a Student Guardian visa.

Option 3: Agree to care arrangements approved by the University.

Please refer to Students under 18 years of age for information about applying for a CAAW with UNSW.

I am worried about my child living in Sydney without any family. What support can they get to help them settle in?

Student Life runs a Airport Pick Up service and a Welcome Centre for approximately 4 weeks prior to the term starting.

Staff and peer mentors will be able to assist your child in getting settled in Sydney and on campus. The Student Support Team  will also be able to give assistance. 

Who do I contact if I am worried about my child's study or living arrangements?

As part of your child's CAAW with UNSW they will be assigned an International Student Support Adviser (ISA) to monitor their welfare and accommodation until they turn 18 years of age. They will be required to meet regularly with their assigned ISA to discuss their accommodation and welfare arrangements as well as their study. You may contact the assigned ISA through Support Contacts for International Students .

When should my child arrive in Sydney?

Your child needs to arrive in Sydney in time for the beginning of the International Students Orientation Program. This begins with Under 18 International Student Induction. This is usually early February in term 1 and early September in term 3. 

My son/daughter is living with an approved relative in Sydney. Can he/she still get support from ISEU?

If  this Australian Government Office has approved your son or daughter's care arrangements, your son/daughter is not required to be monitored by Student Life. However, any international student aged under 18 and studying at UNSW is able to use the support services of Student Life.

What happens when my son/daughter turns 18?

Prior to turning 18 the ISA responsible for monitoring your child will meet with them to determine their ongoing needs. You and your child will also be sent a letter informing you both that the conditions of the care arrangement no longer apply and that your son/daughter is no longer required to comply with the arrangements made under it.

However it is important to note that this does not change your child's present arrangement with his/her accommodation provider and that they must still continue to comply with the general conditions of their student visa. For further information please see this  Australian Government Office .

Students under 18

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Australia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Australia’s High Commission in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

You do not need a pre-departure COVID-19 test to enter or transit Australia regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status. See the Australian government’s website for advice on COVID-19 and travelling.

COVID-19 quarantine requirements

Each state and territory determines its own quarantine rules. You should check requirements for specific states and territories .

Passport validity requirements

For entry into Australia, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. If you’re transiting another country on your way to or from Australia, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.

Visa requirements

British citizens can usually get the following types of electronic visitor visa:

• eVisitor visa . There is no visa application charge or service fee
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) via the iOS App or Android App . There is no visa application charge, but a service fee of A$20 may apply

Information on all other types of visa is available from the Department of Home Affairs .

Working holiday visa

Thousands of Britons travel to Australia each year on a working holiday visa and the vast majority have no issues. Working conditions, accommodation and medical facilities are generally of a good standard.

You can find information about your rights as an employee in Australia and how to report any concerns about unfair or unlawful treatment on the Fair Work Ombudsman website , or by calling 131 394.

Get more information about working in Australia .

Dual nationals

If you’re a British national living in Australia with Australian citizenship, or a dual national, it is best to leave and enter Australia on your Australian passport. You could face difficulties and delays if you do not. See Australian government advice for dual nationals .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Australia guide .

Quarantine of goods

Australia has strict quarantine rules to keep out pests and diseases that could affect plant, animal or human health.

You must fill out an Incoming Passenger Card and either:

• declare any risk goods including food, animal products and plant material (including wooden articles)
• dispose of any risk goods in the bins at the airport or sea port

All luggage is x-rayed on arrival. Any items of concern are further inspected, treated and if necessary confiscated and destroyed. You can be heavily fined for breaches of quarantine regulations.

You can find more information on the Department of Agriculture website .

You will also be asked to declare whether you have ‘visited a rural area, or been in contact with, or near, farm animals outside Australia in the past 30 days’.

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‘It’s very unfair’: Australia’s visa crackdown is disrupting international students and hitting university finances

Student applications and net arrivals fall as refusal rates reach a record high. The situation is set to worsen if visa fees are hiked in the upcoming budget

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It took Rajesh more than 12 months to receive his visa to study in Australia.

But Rajesh – not his real name – considers himself lucky. Two of his friends who also come from India have recently had their PhD offers expire after waiting for visas for more than 10 months.

“It’s frustrating … especially considering PhD students are crucially important,” says Rajesh, who comes from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, considered a red flag by universities trying to weed out non-genuine applicants. “They are fully funded and highly skilled individuals who contribute significantly to our academic community.”

As part of a bid to halve net migration by 2025 , the Australian government is cracking down on non-genuine students who use student visas as a back door for work and permanent residency. The federal government has announced a series of reforms, including tougher visa conditions, stronger English-language tests and rules for education agents who bring overseas students to Australia.

The latest home affairs data shows the proportion of offshore student visa applications being refused has reached a record high, with as many as one in five students having their visas rejected in the year to March. Visas granted to Indian students fell by 48% between December 2022 and December 2023, with Nepalese visas granted falling 53% and Pakistani visas falling 55% over the same period.

The department cites an increase in incomplete applications and fraudulent documentation, contributing to both higher visa refusal rates and longer processing times. The tougher visa conditions have prompted institutions to change their policies, with some even imposing blanket bans on Indian students.

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The home affairs minister, Clare O’Neil, says the federal government recognises “change is hard” but migration is “too high” and must be brought back to “sustainable levels”.

“We are working with the sector to help providers adapt, but we must restore integrity to the system to protect the sector’s international reputation,” she says.

But some say the approach is having a financial impact on institutions and disrupting the plans of genuine students who may be turned off studying in Australia altogether.

What’s going on?

The founder and president of the Pakistani Students Association of Australia, Zeeshan Malik, says many offshore students are experiencing visa refusals , while others are scared to travel back home lest their visas be cancelled on return to Australia.

While there have not been any reported cases of students having their visas cancelled on return, Malik says students feel they are being discriminated against based upon their country of origin.

“It’s very unfair,” he says. “Lots of students are struggling with mental health and other issues because of these confusing policies.”

A University of Sydney spokesperson says a “significant number” of students have been forced to defer or withdraw their applications due to visa processing delays, while others have been suspended to fulfil additional requirements.

“This has been very disruptive to highly capable young people from around the world who had paid their visa application fee and chosen to come to Australia for their studies,” the spokesperson says.

“We have moved our last date to apply for semester 2 to try to limit any such impact for future students.”

The University of Melbourne has also “faced challenges” this semester, with a number of students yet to receive their visas for the 2024 intake. A spokesperson says it has provided an extension to allow enrolled international students to start later.

Central Queensland University has gone even further, writing to education agents confirming it will no longer offer English language programs to students from India or Nepal, or enrolments to applicants over 25 or married, except for research placements.

“With many universities witnessing an increase in student visa refusals, it has been necessary for CQUniversity to proactively reconsider admissions requirements on a regular basis,” a spokesperson says.

“We have a moral obligation to ensure that prospective students have the best opportunity to successfully obtain a student visa.

“Such an outcome is not good for the student, the university, or the reputation of Australia as a global study destination.”

Why universities are imposing blanket bans

Phil Honeywood, the chief executive of the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA), says stigmatising entire nations is a “blunt instrument” that ignores the benefits of diversity.

“We’re supposed to be a welcoming, safe nation,” he says. “It’s a shame sometimes blunt policy instruments go against other government policies.”

Honeywood says universities are imposing restrictive measures on international students in the hope it will improve their risk ratings, which are used by the federal government to reduce student numbers.

The system assesses universities based upon how likely they are to recruit non-genuine students who arrive in Australia primarily to work, not study. Visas are given a risk rating between 1 and 3, and only low-risk universities on level 1 have visa applications processed quickly.

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Earlier this month, the list was updated, with nine universities downgraded to a level 2 and two downgraded to a level 3.

According to Honeywood, less than 10% of international student visas are waiting to be approved at low-risk universities while universities at level 2 and 3 are facing extensive delays.

During a webinar hosted by the IEAA at the beginning of the university year, Charles Sturt University’s pro-chancellor, international, Mike Ferguson, said 40% of international students enrolled in his university – which is a level 2 – were still waiting on visa decisions in the first week of the semester.

“Speaking to my colleagues at other universities, I know many others are in similar situations,” he says.

“You’re looking at refusal rates for offshore students in most markets in the region of 50%.”

Level 3 institution Federation University has faced significant budget pressure since the migration crackdown. It recently announced plans to cut 200 ongoing positions – the equivalent of just over one in 10 staff members.

A spokesperson for the university said the announcement came in response to a 49% decline in international student numbers between 2019 and 2023, which had been exacerbated by “unexpected but necessary changes to international student visa arrangements”.

Similarly, the University of Tasmania – also at level 3 – announced last month it would sell two of its Hobart hotels intended to house international students in anticipation of declining numbers.

Private institutions have also been hit hard. According to English Australia, the national peak body for more than 100 English language colleges for international students, visa grants plummeted by 68% in December 2023 compared with the previous year.

What the future holds

The share of international students is likely to decrease further with an anticipated hike in student visa fees in the May budget, making Australia “well and truly” the most expensive country to apply for a non-refundable visa, according to Honeywood.

Honeywood says international students are facing a “blame game” as the only migration market to Australia that can feasibly be reduced.

The former immigration department deputy secretary Abul Rizvi agrees. He says while higher visa fees are likely, it will be “poor long-term policy”.

“It will mostly deter high-performing students who have options of going elsewhere,” he says. “Policy must be designed to encourage and reward providers to compete for the best students not just those who can apparently afford to pay.”

Rizvi says the cautious approach being taken by providers, coupled with the ramping up of refusal rates for offshore student applications, led to a big fall in student visa applications in February and a fall in net student arrivals in March.

“That trend will likely continue over the next few months,” he says. “But while the flow of students is slowing, the stock is still rising and is now well over a record 700,000,” he says, referring to the number of international students in Australia.

“The industry is built on continuous growth. Under the risk rating system, lower tier providers are particularly vulnerable. They are the ones complaining the most.”

To Rajesh, the decline in quality lies squarely with universities and the government.

“Students are not responsible for that,” he says. “Blaming everything on students and their respective countries is not solving the problem.”

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