Why apply for an Australia Tourist Visa?

• Australia's beaches are the greatest in the world.
• Discover rare marine creatures.
• The world's oldest civilization has arrived.
• Get to view kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
• The whitest sand is here.

Australia is one the alluring destinations that receives the highest footfall of tourists annually. Not only does the country boast its lively cities and breathtaking natural wonders, but it also takes pride in its rich history thereby attracting millions of sightseers.

If you are planning to explore this amazing country, a visitor visa is essential. 

Types of Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) for Australia

Australia’s Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) has several options, called "streams." Each stream is made for a different purpose, such as tourism, family visits, or business trips.

This allows visitors to choose the best option for their travel needs, ensuring they have a smooth, enjoyable, and most importantly compliant stay in Australia. Let’s understand the main types of Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) and how each one can help you visit Australia.

1.    Tourist Stream (for Visitors outside Australia)

The Tourist Stream is perfect for people who want to experience Australia’s scenery, and attractions, or visit friends and family. This option is especially helpful for those who are coming solely for sightseeing or a short visit to family, friends, or relatives staying in Australia without working or doing business.

The Tourist Stream allows stays of from 3-12 months, depending on what the visa permits. Its cost is around AUD $195. To apply for this visa, one needs to be outside Australia.

2.    Tourist Stream (for Visitors inside Australia)

This visa caters to individuals who are already in Australia on another type of visa but would like to stay longer for some valid reasons (other than medical treatment or business purposes). It allows them to extend their stay for up to 12 months while staying in Australia only.

They do not have to leave the country and reapply. It costs around AUD 490 and is a convenient choice for onshore migrants (those who are already in Australia) but wish to spend more time exploring or visiting loved ones.

3.    Sponsored Family Stream

Another category designed for individuals intending to visit their families in Australia is the Sponsored Family Stream. This stream requires you to have a sponsor in Australia, who must be either a permanent resident or a citizen of the country.

This means that your family member in Australia is responsible for sponsoring your visit and stay for the entire duration. In some cases, the sponsor may need to provide a financial security bond.

The Sponsored Family Stream allows visitors to stay up to 12 months, making it an excellent option for longer family visits or reunions. The visa fee is around AUD 195, and there may be bond requirements depending on your situation.

4.    Business Visitor Stream

For those intending to visit Australia for business purposes, the Business Visitor Stream is an appropriate option. This visa allows individuals to enter Australia for short business visits, such as attending conferences, participating in meetings, or negotiating contracts.

However, it does not permit visa holders to work or earn income while in Australia, which means you cannot buy or sell goods or services during your stay.

Typically, this visa allows for visits of up to three months and costs approximately AUD 195. Visa holders can make multiple entries into Australia until the visa expires.

5.    Approved Destination Status Stream (For Chinese Citizens)

The Approved Destination Status Stream is specifically designed for Chinese citizens (excluding people from Hong Kong and Macau) travelling as part of a guided tour organised by an approved travel agent.

This stream allows Chinese tourists to experience Australia as part of a group, making it easy and accessible for travellers. However, it mandates you to be a part of that group during your stay. The visa typically allows a stay until the grant date.

It costs approximately AUD 195. It is a simple, straightforward option for Chinese citizens who want to explore Australia in a group setting.

6.    Frequent Traveller Stream (For Chinese Citizens)

The Frequent Traveller Stream is another option for Chinese citizens (excluding SARs), who plan to travel to Australia often, whether for family visits, social reasons, or short business activities.

This visa is valid for up to 10 years, so you can make multiple entries with each entry lasting up to 3 months. While it is more expensive than other streams, at around AUD 1,435, it offers the convenience of multiple entries over several years.

This option is perfect for those who frequently need to travel to Australia for business or personal reasons. 

Visitor Visa Process for Australia:

1.    Choose the Right Visa Type: 
The most common visa for short-term visits is the Subclass 600 Visitor Visa. This visa allows tourists to explore Australia for up to three, six, or even twelve months depending on their travel plans.

2.    Documents Required:

• Valid Passport (Should be valid for at least following six months)
• Proof of Financial Means (To show you can support yourself during your stay - bank statements, income proofs, etc.).
• Travel Itinerary (Evidence of your travel plans including flight bookings and accommodation details, etc.).
• Cover Letter: (A detailed document stating your details and circumstances. It must include clear and true intent of your visit).
• Health Insurance: (highly recommended to have travel health insurance for emergencies, not mandatory though)
• Character Documents: (PCC - Police clearance certificate, if required).
• Employment Details: (Evidence of employment should be attached if you are employed).

.3.    Visa Application Process:

• Online Application: Visa application is an online but comprehensive and daunting process; our experts apply it on behalf of our clients so that there is no scope for making errors.
• Biometrics Submission: You may need to submit your fingerprints and a photograph as part of the application process.
• Visa Processing Time: Visitor visas typically take 20 to 45 days to process, but processing times may vary based on individual circumstances.

At Cross Border Education, we are here to make your visa process a breeze. We take care of all the nitty-gritty details so you can focus on your excitement about heading to

Australia. Here is how we help:

• Our visa team files your application and makes sure all the paperwork is spot on.
• We stay in touch with the embassy and keep you updated every step of the way.
• Once your visa is sorted, we can help you plan your itinerary and connect you with awesome local services in Australia. 

With Cross Border, getting your visa and setting foot in Australia will be stress-free and smooth sailing!