Visiting Australia can be an exciting adventure, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Sydney Opera House. But before you pack your bags, you need to ask: how do I apply for an Australian tourist visa? In this guide, you’ll find a step-by-step process, key requirements, timelines, and smart tips to boost your chances of approval.

What exactly is an Australian tourist visa?

The primary option for tourists is the Visitor Visa (subclass 600) – Tourist Stream. This visa lets you enter Australia for leisure, visiting family, or seeing friends. You must intend to stay temporarily, not work, and maintain health and character standards. Alternatively, depending on your nationality, you may qualify for the ETA (subclass 601) or eVisitor (subclass 651) visas.

What are the Australian tourist visa requirements?

To submit a strong Australian tourist visa application, you typically need:

1. Identity documents

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity
• Copies of used pages showing stamps, visas, and amendments
• Proof of any name changes

2. Evidence of genuine visitor intention

• Travel itinerary, accommodation, and return flight details
• Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, salary slips, tax returns)
• Evidence of ties to your home country such as employment, family, or property
• Invitation letter from your Australian contact (if applicable)

3. Character and health requirements

• Police clearance or character certificates (if requested)
• Medical checks, particularly for longer stays or certain countries

4. Additional documents

• Proof of prior travel or international history
• For parents visiting children in Australia, additional evidence of purpose and relationship

Ensure all documents are translated into English and clearly scanned.

What is the step-by-step process to apply for an Australian tourist visa?

Step 1: Choose the correct visa stream
Select the appropriate visa subclass based on your nationality and purpose (Tourist 600, ETA 601, or eVisitor 651).

Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website using an ImmiAccount.

Step 3: Complete the visa application form
Provide accurate details about your travel purpose, finances, and background.

Step 4: Upload supporting documents
Attach all required identity, financial, health, and character documents.

Step 5: Pay the application fee
Submit payment via the ImmiAccount portal.

Step 6: Wait for processing
Monitor your email or ImmiAccount for updates and respond promptly to any document requests.

Step 7: Check visa conditions
Once approved, review your visa grant notice for validity and travel conditions.

How long does Australian tourist visa processing take?

The Australian tourist visa processing time depends on your country of residence, application accuracy, and travel period and the processing times can change regularly so best to check at the time of visa lodgement.

• 75% of Tourist 600 visas are processed in about 20 days.
• 90% are finalised in 30–35 days.
• ETA and eVisitor visas are typically processed within a few days or even hours.

Apply early to avoid last-minute issues, especially during busy travel seasons.

What are common mistakes and how to avoid them?

Avoid these pitfalls that often lead to delays or refusals:

• Incomplete or missing documents
• Weak proof of intent to return home
• Unclear or illegible scans
• Applying too late or without proper planning
• Providing misleading or inconsistent information

Be transparent, prepare in advance, and double-check before submission.

Tips to strengthen your Australian tourist visa application

• Submit clear, complete, and current documents
• Demonstrate financial stability and ties to the home country
• Apply well ahead of travel dates
• Respond promptly to any follow-up requests
• Keep copies of all submissions

How Kritin Global Helps

At Kritin Global, we understand that visa applications can be stressful – even for short visits. Our expert education and migration consultants simplify the entire Australian tourist visa application process with personalised support and attention to detail.

Here’s how we make your experience seamless:

• Personalised Assessment: We evaluate your background, travel goals, and eligibility to recommend the most suitable visa stream.
• Document Preparation: Our team helps you compile every required document, ensuring compliance with Australian tourist visa requirements.
• Application Review: Before submission, we meticulously check your forms and attachments to reduce the risks of delays or refusals.
• Status Tracking & Follow-Up: We monitor your application progress, guide you on responses, and keep you informed of any updates.
• End-to-End Support: From pre-application advice to post-approval guidance, we handle every stage so you can plan your travel confidently.

By choosing Kritin Global, you benefit from the expertise of registered migration agents who know the system inside out – helping you save time, avoid errors, and travel with peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Applying for an Australian tourist visa is straightforward when you prepare properly, stay honest, and submit strong documentation. The right strategy, awareness of Australian tourist visa requirements, and early application can help you manage the variable Australian tourist visa processing time efficiently.

If you’d like professional support, Kritin Global can guide you step-by-step through the process. Contact our expert team today for a personalised consultation – and let us make your Australian travel dream a reality.

FAQs

1. How long does an Australian tourist visa take to process?
   Most decisions arrive within 20–35 days, depending on the Australian tourist visa processing time.
2. Can I apply for an Australian tourist visa online?
   Yes. Create an ImmiAccount and submit your Australian tourist visa application digitally.
3. What documents are needed for an Australian tourist visa?
   You’ll need identity proof, travel plans, financial evidence, and health documents per Australian tourist visa requirements.
4. Is travel insurance mandatory for an Australian tourist visa?
   It’s not mandatory but highly recommended to cover emergencies during your stay in Australia.