Australia Visa Requirements - Complete Guide
Complete guide to Australia visa requirements including visitor visas, ETA, student visas, and work visas with document checklists and application process.
Overview
Australia offers various visa categories for visitors, students, and workers. The most common tourist visa is the Visitor Visa (subclass 600), while citizens of eligible countries can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).
Australia has one of the most popular visa programs for tourists from Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The application process is primarily online through the Australian Government's ImmiAccount system.
Processing times vary by visa type and applicant country, with some visas processed within days while others may take several weeks. Biometrics may be required for first-time applicants from certain countries.
Visa Types
Visitor Visa (subclass 600)
For tourism, visiting family, or business visitor activities (up to 12 months)
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
For eligible passport holders - tourism or business (up to 3 months)
Student Visa (subclass 500)
For studying at Australian educational institutions
Travel Tips
- Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date
- Visitor visas allow multiple entries within validity period
- Health insurance is highly recommended for all visitors
- Declare all food, plant, and animal products at customs - strict biosecurity laws
- Keep evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
- Return flight booking strongly recommended for visa application
At the Border
What to expect when you arrive
Entry Requirements
- Valid passport with Australian visa or ETA
- Incoming Passenger Card (completed on plane or at airport)
- Return or onward travel tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Declare all food, plant, and animal products
Conditions of Stay
- Stay limited to visa grant conditions (usually 3 or 12 months)
- Cannot work on a tourist visa
- Cannot study for more than 3 months
- Must maintain valid health insurance (recommended)
- Strict biosecurity - declare all food and organic items
- Must leave before visa expires - no automatic extensions
Country Information
- Capital
- Canberra
- Currency
- Australian Dollar (AUD)
- Language
- English
- Timezone
- AEST/AEDT (multiple zones)
How to Apply
Australian visas are primarily processed online through ImmiAccount. Some countries use Australian Visa Application Centres (AVACs) operated by VFS Global for biometrics and document submission.
Official Sources
This information is based on the following official sources. Always verify with these sources before submitting applications.
Official Australian immigration portal
Apply for visa online
Find the right visa for you
Check current processing times
Links open in a new tab. VisaCalm is not responsible for external website content.