Australia is a world-renowned destination, famous for its vibrant cities, beautiful landscapes, and unique wildlife. If you’re planning to explore Australia, you’ll likely need a visit visa. Here, we provide comprehensive information on what an Australian visit visa is, the types available, the application process, requirements, and essential details to help you get started on your journey to Australia.

What is an Australia Visit Visa?

An Australian visit visa allows travelers from overseas to enter Australia temporarily for tourism, leisure, or to visit family and friends. This visa is typically granted for short-term stays, allowing you to experience the beauty and culture of Australia without engaging in paid work or other activities outside the scope of tourism.

Types of Australia Visit Visa

Australia offers several types of visit visas to suit different purposes and durations. Here are the main options:

1. Visitor Visa (subclass 600): This is the most common tourist visa for Australia. It allows you to visit Australia for up to 12 months, depending on your circumstances. It’s suitable for tourism, visiting family, and even some business visitor activities.
2. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601): This visa is available to certain passport holders and allows you to enter Australia for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. It is primarily aimed at travelers from specific countries.
3. eVisitor (subclass 651): Similar to the ETA, the eVisitor is available for certain passport holders and allows for visits of up to three months over a 12-month period for tourism and business purposes.

How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa?

The application process for an Australian tourist visa can be straightforward if you follow these steps carefully:

1. Choose the Right Visa: Select the most suitable visa type (subclass 600, 601, or 651) based on your nationality and visit purpose.
2. Complete the Online Application: Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website and access the online application portal. Create an account if needed.
3. Fill Out the Application Form: Provide accurate personal information, travel details, and reasons for visiting Australia. Make sure all answers are correct to avoid delays.
4. Upload Required Documents: Prepare and upload all necessary documents as specified by the Department of Home Affairs.
5. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the relevant visa application fee online, depending on the visa type selected.
6. Submit and Track Your Application: Once submitted, keep an eye on the application status through your account on the portal.

What are the Required Documents for an Australian Tourist Visa?

When applying for an Australian tourist visa, you will generally need to provide the following documents:

• Valid Passport: A passport with at least six months validity beyond the date of entry into Australia.
• Visa Application Form: Completed online or on paper, depending on the application method.
• Passport-Sized Photos: As per the specific size requirements outlined by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial documents proving you can support yourself during your stay.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including accommodation and return tickets (if applicable).
• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance that covers your stay in Australia.
• Character Documents: Police clearance certificates or other documents as specified by the visa requirements.

Additional documents may be required depending on your nationality and the visa subclass you apply for.

How Much Does an Australian Tourist Visa Cost?

The cost of an Australian tourist visa varies based on the type of visa you apply for. Here are the approximate costs:

• Visitor Visa (subclass 600): Generally costs AUD 145 for a standard tourist visa. This fee can vary based on visa conditions or expedited processing requests.
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601): Usually incurs a small service fee (approximately AUD 20).
• eVisitor (subclass 651): Free of charge for eligible passport holders.

These costs are subject to change, so always check the latest fees on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

How Long Does It Take to Grant an Australian Tourist Visa?

Processing times for an Australian tourist visa vary depending on the visa type and individual circumstances:

• Visitor Visa (subclass 600): Typically takes 20–30 days.
• ETA (subclass 601) and eVisitor (subclass 651): Often processed within 1–5 days.

It is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any potential delays in processing.

How Much Bank Statement is Required for Australian Visit Visa?

When applying for an Australian tourist visa, demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay is essential. There is no fixed amount specified, but generally, a minimum balance equivalent to AUD 5,000 or more over the last three months is recommended. This balance should ideally reflect enough to cover expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and activities for the duration of your stay.

How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa from Pakistan?

Applying for an Australian Tourist Visa (subclass 600) from Pakistan involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you through the process:

1. Determine the Appropriate Visa Type

The Visitor Visa (subclass 600) is suitable for Pakistani citizens planning to visit Australia for tourism, business visitor activities, or to visit family and friends.

2. Create an ImmiAccount

All visa applications are submitted online through the Australian Government’s ImmiAccount portal. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.

3. Complete the Online Application Form

After logging into your ImmiAccount, select “New Application” and choose “Visitor Visa (600).” Fill out the application form with accurate personal information, travel details, and the purpose of your visit.

4. Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents to support your application:

• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: A clear, recent photo meeting the specified requirements.
• Proof of Financial Capacity: Bank statements from the last three months showing sufficient funds to cover your stay. It’s advisable to have at least AUD 5,000.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of your planned activities, accommodation bookings, and return flight reservations.
• Evidence of Ties to Pakistan: Documents such as employment letters, property ownership, or family commitments demonstrating your intention to return to Pakistan.
• Health and Character Documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide medical examinations or police clearance certificates.

5. Upload Documents and Submit Application

Scan and upload all required documents to your ImmiAccount. Ensure all documents are clear and legible. After uploading, submit your application.

6. Pay the Visa Application Fee

The application fee for the Visitor Visa (subclass 600) is AUD 190. Payment can be made online through your ImmiAccount using a credit or debit card.

7. Provide Biometrics

After submitting your application, you may receive a notification to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph). Visit the nearest Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) in Pakistan to complete this step.

8. Monitor Application Status

Regularly check your ImmiAccount for updates on your application status. Processing times can vary, but typically, 90% of applications are processed within 21 days.

9. Receive Visa Decision

Once a decision is made, you’ll receive a notification through your ImmiAccount. If approved, your visa grant letter will outline the visa conditions and validity period. Additional Tips:

• Apply Early: Submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date to accommodate any processing delays.
• Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all information and documents for accuracy to avoid delays or refusals.
• Health Insurance: While not mandatory, it’s advisable to have health insurance to cover any medical expenses during your stay in Australia.