Planning a short-term stay in Australia for tourism, family visits, or business? The Visitor visa (Subclass 600) is your gateway. In this guide, you’ll learn about the six visa streams, updated 2025 requirements, a clear application roadmap, costs, processing times, and insider tips to ensure a smooth visa journey.
What Is the Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)?
The Subclass 600 visa allows eligible applicants to enter Australia for:
- Tourist visits (sightseeing, holiday, recreation)
- Visiting family or friends
- Business visitor activities (attend conferences, negotiate deals, meet clients)
- Non-work-related short courses up to 3 months
Visa validity ranges from 3, 6 or 12 months, depending on your stream and nationality.
Six Subclass 600 Streams
- Tourist Stream
- For holidaymakers and those visiting friends or relatives.
- Sponsored Family Stream
- Sponsored by an eligible Australian relative (must provide an assurance of support bond).
- Business Visitor Stream
- Short-term business activities, such as attending conferences or meetings.
- Approved Destination Status (ADS) Stream
- For passport holders of specific approved countries under bilateral agreements.
- Frequent Traveller Stream
- For Chinese citizens holding long-term visas permitting frequent visits.
- Frequent Traveller – Business Stream
- For business travellers from China under the ADS arrangement.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Subclass 600 in 2025, you must:
- Have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond intended stay.
- Demonstrate genuine temporary entry intention: show your visit is short-term and you will depart at the end.
- Meet character and health requirements: provide police certificates or undergo medical checks if requested.
- Show sufficient funds: evidence you can cover travel, living costs, and return transportation.
- Provide any required sponsorship or ADS approval, if applying under those streams.
Note: Some nationalities may require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) instead of Subclass 600. Check your eligibility on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Required Documents at a Glance
- Identity & Travel
- Valid passport, recent passport-style photo
- Financial Capacity
- Bank statements, payslips, sponsorship bonds
- Purpose of Visit
- Travel itinerary, conference invites, family invitation letters
- Health & Character
- Police clearance certificates, health examination results (if requested)
- Additional (Stream-Specific)
- Assurance of Support document for Sponsored Family stream
- ADS approval letter for ADS stream
Also Check: 6 Months Australian Temporary Work Visa Process 2025: Types, Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Fees & Processing Times
| Stream | Base Fee (AUD) | Processing Target* |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist | 150 | 75% in 21 days |
| Sponsored Family | 420 | 75% in 31 days |
| Business Visitor | 150 | 75% in 21 days |
| ADS | 150 | 75% in 21 days |
| Frequent Traveller (China) | 150 | 75% in 21 days |
| Frequent Traveller – Business | 150 | 75% in 21 days |
*Processing times are targets where 75% of applications are finalized within the noted period; actual times vary by nationality and demand.
Expert Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply Early: Submit your application at least 4–6 weeks before travel dates.
- Be Transparent: Clearly explain your travel purpose and ties to your home country.
- Maintain Funds: Ensure bank statements cover all travellers for the entire stay.
- Use Health Insurance: Comprehensive cover can strengthen your application.
- Respond Quickly: Watch your email for requests for further information to avoid delays.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Choose Your Stream
- Identify which of the six Subclass 600 streams fits your purpose of visit.
- Create an ImmiAccount
- Register at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au to manage your application online.
- Complete the Application Form
- Select “Visitor visa (Subclass 600)” and your chosen stream.
- Answer eligibility questions and upload required documents.
- Gather Supporting Documents
- Passport bio page
- Bank statements or proof of funds
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings, accommodation)
- Letter of invitation or sponsorship (if applicable)
- Health insurance (recommended)
- Pay the Visa Fee
- Fees vary by stream (see table below).
- Submit Biometrics & Health Checks
- If requested, attend a biometric collection centre and complete medical examinations.
- Track Your Application
- Monitor status updates in ImmiAccount and respond promptly to any additional requests.
- Receive Your Visa Grant
- You will be notified by email. Review the visa grant letter for conditions and validity dates.
Conclusion
The Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) offers flexible short-stay options for tourism, family visits, and business activities. By selecting the right stream, preparing accurate documents, and following our step-by-step guide, you’ll maximize your chances of a successful visa grant.
FAQs
Q: Can I extend my Visitor visa in Australia?
Extensions are possible in exceptional circumstances; apply at least 28 days before expiry via ImmiAccount.
Q: Can I work on a Subclass 600 visa?
No. This visa prohibits working for any employer in Australia.
Q: Can I study while on a Visitor visa?
You may undertake courses up to 3 months in duration. Longer courses require a student visa.
Q: Do I need health insurance?
It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended to cover medical expenses and demonstrate your capacity to support yourself.