Who should apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)?
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The Visitor visa (subclass 600) is the most common Australian visa, allowing people to visit Australia temporarily for tourism, business, or to visit family. This visa is available to people of all nationalities and is the standard visa for short-term stays in Australia. Whether you are planning a holiday, attending business meetings, or visiting relatives, the Visitor visa is the appropriate pathway.
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What are the Visitor Visa streams?
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The Visitor visa (subclass 600) has four streams:
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Tourist stream: For people visiting Australia for holidays, sightseeing, recreation, or visiting friends and family. This is the most commonly used stream.
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Business Visitor stream: For people visiting Australia for business purposes such as attending conferences, meetings, or exploring business opportunities. This stream does not allow you to work in Australia.
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Sponsored Family stream: For people visiting family members in Australia. Your Australian relative must sponsor your application and provide a bond. This stream allows stays of up to 12 months.
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Approved Destination Status (ADS) stream: For Chinese nationals travelling to Australia as part of an organised tour group.
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What are the eligibility requirements?
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To be eligible for the Visitor visa (subclass 600), you must meet the following requirements:
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You must be a genuine temporary entrant with a genuine intention to visit Australia temporarily.
You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
You must have adequate health insurance for the duration of your visit.
You must demonstrate strong ties to your home country (employment, property, family) that will encourage you to return.
You must meet health and character requirements.
You must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian Government.
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How to apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)?
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Most Visitor visa applications are lodged online through ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
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Step 1: Determine which stream is appropriate for your visit purpose.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Step 3: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents including passport, photographs, proof of funds, travel itinerary, and health insurance.
Step 4: Pay the application fee.
Step 5: Attend any required health examinations or provide biometrics if requested.
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How long can you stay on a Visitor Visa?
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The Visitor visa is typically granted for 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your circumstances. The Tourist stream usually grants a stay of up to 3 or 6 months. The Sponsored Family stream can allow stays of up to 12 months. Your visa grant letter will specify the period of stay and any conditions.
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Processing time for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600):
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Tourist stream: 75% of applications processed within 1 to 4 weeks for most countries.
Business Visitor stream: 75% of applications processed within 1 to 3 weeks.
Sponsored Family stream: Processing times vary, typically 5 to 8 months.
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Processing times depend on your country of passport, the completeness of your application, and the time of year.
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How much does the Visitor Visa cost?
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Tourist stream: AUD 190 for the primary applicant.
Business Visitor stream: AUD 190 for the primary applicant.
Sponsored Family stream: AUD 380 for the primary applicant plus a bond of AUD 5,000 to AUD 15,000.
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LifeinAus specialises in Visitor visa (subclass 600) applications and can assist with complex cases including refusals, sponsored family applications, and longer-stay requests. As a registered migration agent (MARA No. 1795282), we ensure your application presents the strongest possible case.
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Contact us today to check your eligibility for a Visitor visa and plan your trip to Australia.
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Last Updated: March 2026