Natural beauty, vibrant cities, and a welcoming culture make Australia one of the world’s most visited countries. Immigrants and foreign travelers need a valid tourist visa in order to enter the country. Short-term travel for tourism, family visits, or business is permitted with the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).
An explanation of how the Australia tourist visa works, what sponsorship means, and how immigrants can apply is provided in this guide.
How does the Australia Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) work?
A Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows foreign nationals to:
- You can visit Australia for tourism, holidays, or recreation.
- Spend time with family or friends.
- Participate in short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations).
- Depending on the type of visa granted, you can stay for 3, 6, or 12 months.
A temporary visa does not allow long-term employment or permanent residence.
Sponsorship of tourist visas
Visa sponsorship involves the support of a person or organization in Australia. Typically, sponsorship occurs when:
- Australian relatives and family invite you to their homes.
- Financial guarantees are provided for your stay by Australian citizens or permanent residents.
- There may be conferences, trainings, or events that businesses or organizations invite you to attend.
Subclass 600 visas allow family members to sponsor an immigrant for a visit under the Sponsored Family Visitor stream. A financial bond may be required in such cases.
Australia Tourist Visa Requirements
The following conditions must be met by applicants:
- Be in possession of a valid passport.
- You must provide proof of your ability to cover travel and living expenses.
- Provide proof of return travel plans (round-trip ticket or itinerary).
- Demonstrate genuine intention to visit temporarily (meet Genuine Temporary Entrant – GTE).
- Upon request, provide health certificates and character references.
- Documents of sponsorship or invitation letters are required for sponsored visas.
Tourist Visa Application Process
- Choose a visa stream
Select the appropriate category under Subclass 600 – Tourist, Sponsored Family, or Business Visitor. - Document preparation
Detailed information about health insurance, passport information, financial statements, travel itinerary, and invitation letter (if sponsored). - Online application submission
Applicants can submit their applications through the Department of Home Affairs’ website or through an Australian embassy or consulate. - Pay the visa fee
AUD 150 is the typical application fee, but it can vary depending on the country. - Participate in a biometrics/interview
The applicant may be required to provide biometrics or attend an interview. - Visa decision received
You will be told the length of your stay (3, 6, or 12 months) and the conditions of entry if the visa is approved.
Sponsorship by relatives or family members
The process for Sponsored Family Visitor Stream includes:
- Sponsorship by an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- Visitors may be asked to pay a security bond (refundable after they leave).
- Visas are then granted for the duration of the specified visit.
Visa restrictions for tourists
- Work restrictions – Tourist visa holders cannot work in Australia.
- Rights to study limited – you can only study for 3 months.
- Expiration of the visa must be declared before leaving, unless an extension has been approved.
A few final thoughts
Australian Tourist Visas (Subclass 600) are the most common pathway for immigrants who wish to visit the country for leisure, family visits, or short-term business purposes. There are sponsorship options available, especially for family visits, which makes the process straightforward if you meet the requirements. In spite of the fact that it does not allow permanent settlement, it allows you to experience life in Australia and reunite with family and friends.