Indian passport holders travelling to Australia for tourism, holidays, cruises, or visiting family/friends must apply for the:

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Tourist Stream

This visa allows short-term travel to Australia for leisure purposes. Applications are submitted online via the official Australian Immigration portal (ImmiAccount).

Stay Duration:
✔ Typically 3 months per visit
✔ In some cases, 6 or 12 months may be granted (at discretion of the Department of Home Affairs)

Validity:
✔ Usually valid for 12 months (single or multiple entry may be granted)

Best for:
• Tourism & sightseeing
• Visiting family or friends
• Cruises departing from Australia
• Short recreational courses (under 3 months)

⏱️ Processing Time

Australia does not guarantee fixed processing times. Based on recent official processing data:

• 50% of applications: processed in ~10–20 days
• 90% of applications: processed within 30–45 days

During peak seasons (Oct–Jan & Mar–May), processing may take longer.

📌 Applicants are strongly advised to apply at least 6–8 weeks before travel.

📌 Key Points to Know

• Applications must be lodged online only (no paper submission for most Indian applicants)
• Biometrics collection is mandatory (through VFS Global in India)
• Visa approval does not guarantee entry — final decision is taken by Border Force at arrival
• Strong financial capacity and genuine tourist intent must be demonstrated
• Health examination may be required in some cases
• You must not work on a tourist visa

📌 Overstaying can lead to visa cancellation and future travel bans.

📄 Documents & Requirements

Below is the standard checklist for Indian applicants:

1️⃣ Valid Passport

• Minimum 6 months validity recommended
• Clear scanned copies of bio page

2️⃣ Online Visa Application (Subclass 600)

3️⃣ Recent Passport-Size Photograph

4️⃣ Cover Letter

• Travel purpose
• Dates of travel
• Planned itinerary
• Who is funding the trip

5️⃣ Travel Itinerary

• Tentative flight booking
• Accommodation details

6️⃣ Financial Documents

• Last 6 months bank statements
• Income tax returns (if available)
• Salary slips (last 3 months)
• Fixed deposits or other financial assets (if applicable)

7️⃣ Employment Proof

• Leave approval letter
• Employment ID / Offer letter
• Business registration (if self-employed)

8️⃣ Invitation Letter (If Visiting Family/Friends)

• Host’s Australian ID / Visa copy
• Proof of address
• Financial support documents (if sponsoring)

9️⃣ Travel History

• Copies of previous visas and entry stamps (if available)

🔟 Biometrics

• Fingerprints & photo at authorised VFS centre

📌 Additional documents may be requested based on applicant profile.

💰 Australia Tourist Visa Fees (Visitor Visa Subclass 600)

📌 Visa fees are subject to change by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
📌 Payment is made online at time of application.

✈️ Important Travel Tips for Australia Visa Applicants

✔ Apply 6–8 weeks before travel
✔ Show strong ties to India (job, family, assets)
✔ Avoid submitting fake or unverifiable documents
✔ Maintain sufficient bank balance (recommended ₹3–5 lakhs minimum depending on travel duration)
✔ Travel insurance is highly recommended

🔎 Why Australia Tourist Visas Get Rejected

• Insufficient financial proof
• Weak travel history
• Lack of strong ties to home country
• Incomplete documentation
• Suspicion of intent to overstay