Welcome to your holiday in Australia, a destination that entices holidaymakers, tourists, and visitors from across the globe.
Each year, a significant number of tourist visas are processed, opening the door for countless individuals to explore this captivating continent country.
Between June and December 2022 alone, an impressive 612,530 visitor visas were granted, reflecting the immense popularity of Australia as a sought-after holiday spot.
From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the pristine wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, this remarkable land boasts a wealth of natural marvels and cultural treasures that continue to draw holiday-makers from far and wide.
Whether you yearn for the rugged beauty of the Outback, the sun-kissed beaches of the Gold Coast, or the vibrant ambiance of Melbourne, Australia promises a holiday experience like no other.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of this diverse land, as you create cherished memories that will forever hold a place in your heart.
A visitor visa (subclass 600) is a temporary visa that allows holders to holiday in Australia as a tourist, visit family and friends, or go on a cruise from an Australian port.
But can I look for work on a holiday – tourist visa?
Those holidaying on a tourist visa are not permitted to look for work in Australia while holding this visitor visa.
Anyone wishing to visit Australia for a holiday as well as work should consider other visa alternatives such as a working holiday visa.
More information about holiday – tourist visas
Holiday – Tourist visas are granted to those who wish to visit Australia as a tourist whether to sight-see, visit family and friends, go on a cruise, or for any other purpose except for business or medical treatment.
Holders of a subclass 600 visitor visa can only stay for the period or dates specified on their visitor visa grant letter. The length of stay granted for each tourist visa varies for each applicant.
When processing applications, the Department of Home Affairs considers factors such as how long an applicant may want to stay in Australia as well as why they want to stay.
Applicants can request a preferred length of stay, however, it may not be granted.
Generally, a stay of three months is granted but a stay of up to 12 months may be approved in certain circumstances.
Tourist visa holders may study in Australia for up to three months, however, if the main reason for visiting Australia is for study, then a student visa may be more appropriate.
To be granted a visitor visa, applicants must:
- Intend to come to Australia to visit – holiday only
- Have enough money for their stay in Australia
- Not work in Australia
- Strong incentive to return home
- (Visitor visa can be lodged onshore and the applicant needs to be in Australia when the decision is made)
A visitor visa can be granted with single or multiple entry. If a visa is granted with multiple entries, visa holders may leave and return to Australia for as long as the visa is valid.
If a visitor visa holder has been granted a visa with single entry and leaves Australia, they will have to apply for another visa to return.
A tourist – visitor visa cannot be extended. (The visitor visa holder can lodge another visitor visa while in Australia to extend their stay, strong evidence will need to be provided.)
In order to stay in Australia longer, visa holders must apply for another visa and will only be eligible if their current visa does not have a condition preventing them from staying longer in Australia.
Family members cannot be included in a tourist visa application. Each family member wanting to visit and holiday in Australia must submit an application for their own visa.
As with any visa, applicants must meet eligibility criteria to be considered for a visitor visa. Eligibility requirements include:
- Meeting health requirements
- Meeting character requirements
- Paying any outstanding debts to the Australian government
The cost of health checks, biometrics, police checks, etc in order to meet eligibility criteria are the responsibility of the applicant and are in addition to the visa application fee.
Visitor visa holders are also responsible for any healthcare costs they may incur while in Australia.
Tourist visas can take anywhere from five days to 30 days to process.
If you would like to learn more about visitor visas for your next holiday to Australia or any other visa, contact the experienced team of registered migration agents at Visa Solutions Australia. Book a consultation.
