Visitor visa

Overview

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is a temporary visa that allows individuals to travel to Australia for tourism, business, or to visit family. Depending on the stream, applicants can stay for 3, 6, or 12 months, with single or multiple entry options. This visa is ideal for short-term stays and does not permit paid work.

Tourist Stream

This stream is for individuals visiting Australia for leisure, holidays, or to see family and friends.

• Apply from inside or outside Australia

• Stay up to 12 months, depending on circumstances

• No work allowed; study permitted for up to 3 months

• Must demonstrate genuine intent to return home

Sponsored Family Stream

Designed for visitors who are sponsored by an eligible family member in Australia.

• Sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• May require a security bond

• Typically allows single entry

• Conditions may include no further stay and no work

Business Visitor Stream

For short-term business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations.

• No paid work or selling of goods/services

• Apply from outside Australia

• Stay up to 3 months per visit

• Must show evidence of business intent and financial support

Approved Destination Status Stream

Available to citizens of mainland China traveling as part of an organized tour group.

• Must apply through an authorized travel agent

• Single or multiple entries based on itinerary

• Designed to promote group tourism

Frequent Traveller Stream

Tailored for frequent business or leisure visitors from China.

• Valid for up to 10 years

• Maximum stay of 3 months per visit

• Requires strong travel history and biometric data

• Multiple entries permitted

General Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for any stream, applicants must:

• Be a genuine visitor

• Have sufficient funds for their stay

• Meet health and character requirements

• Hold health insurance if required

• Demonstrate ties to home country (e.g. employment, property, family)