Australia visas

Australia operates a comprehensive visa system, offering electronic travel authorities (ETA and eVisitor) for short-term tourism and business to many eligible nationalities. For other travelers or longer stays, the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is available, with a strong emphasis on genuine temporary entry and adherence to immigration regulations.

Visa Overview

Australia's visa policy is structured to facilitate legitimate temporary visits for tourism, business, and family purposes, while maintaining strict border controls. Key short-term options include the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA Subclass 601) and the eVisitor (Subclass 651), both electronic systems for eligible passport holders, allowing multiple entries for up to three months per visit within a 12-month period. The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) caters to all other nationalities or those seeking longer stays, up to 12 months. New Zealand citizens have a unique arrangement, receiving a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) on arrival. Recent policy changes (2024-2026) include stricter rules against 'visa hopping' (applying for student visas from visitor visas onshore) and enhanced Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessments. Additionally, new legislation from March 2026 grants the Minister for Immigration authority to impose temporary restrictions on certain temporary visa holders.

Key Highlights

Visa-free entry for New Zealand citizens via a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) on arrival.

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA Subclass 601) is available for eligible passport holders from 34 countries/territories, allowing multiple entries for up to 3 months per visit within a 12-month period, with an AUD $20 service fee.

eVisitor (Subclass 651) is available for eligible passport holders from 36 European countries, allowing multiple entries for up to 3 months per visit within a 12-month period, and is free of charge.

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) fees start from AUD $200 for offshore applications and AUD $500 for onshore applications.

ETA and eVisitor visas are often processed instantly or within minutes; official processing times for other visas are published monthly by the Department of Home Affairs and vary.

Recent policy changes include stricter rules against 'visa hopping' (applying for student visas from visitor visas onshore) and new legislation allowing temporary restrictions on certain temporary visa holders.

Official Resources

Australian Department of Home Affairs Department of Home Affairs Global Visa Processing Times Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) Official Page eVisitor (Subclass 651) Official Page Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Official Page Australian ETA App (Apple App Store) Australian ETA App (Google Play Store)

Travel Tips

Apply for your Australian visa well in advance of your intended travel date, as official processing times are indicative and can vary.
Ensure your application includes all required documents, such as proof of sufficient funds, a detailed travel itinerary, and evidence of strong ties to your home country, to avoid delays or refusal.
Be aware of recent 'visa hopping' restrictions; it is now more difficult to switch from a visitor visa to a student or work visa from within Australia.
For ETA applications, use only the official 'Australian ETA app' and exercise caution with third-party websites that may charge excessive fees or be fraudulent.