Visitor Visa Subclass 600

Visit Australia for tourism, business, or to see family.

Overview

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is a temporary visa allowing people to visit Australia for a holiday, to see family and friends, or for business visitor activities. It does NOT allow you to work in Australia.

Common Streams

Tourist Stream (Offshore)

For holidays, recreation, or seeing family.

Apply: From OUTSIDE Australia.
Stay: Up to 12 months (usually 3 or 6 granted).
Purpose: Strictly tourism only.

Business Visitor Stream

For short business trips.

Activities: Meetings, conferences, negotiations.
Stay: Usually up to 3 months.
Not Allowed: Working or selling goods/services directly to public.

Key Requirements

Genuine Visitor: You must prove you intend to stay temporarily and have incentives to return home (job, assets, family).
Financials: Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay (bank statements, payslips).
Health/Character: Meet standard health and character requirements.
Insurance: Highly recommended to have health insurance, mandatory for some conditions (e.g. 8501).

Application Process

Documenation: Gather passport, financial proof, itinerary, and employment letters.
Apply Online: Submit application via ImmiAccount.
Biometrics: Attend appointment if requested.
Outcome: Receive visa grant via email.

Common Questions

Subclass 600 Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.

What is the Subclass 600 visitor visa?

Subclass 600 is Australia's visitor visa for tourists, business visitors, and family visitors. It allows temporary stays for various purposes without permission to work.

What are the different streams of Subclass 600?

Four streams exist: Tourist (for holiday/recreation), Business Visitor (for business activities), Sponsored Family (visiting relatives), and Approved Destination Status (Chinese tour groups).

How long is the Subclass 600 valid for?

Validity varies from 3 months to 12 months depending on the stream and individual circumstances. Some applicants may receive multiple entry visas.

Can I study on Subclass 600?

You can study for up to 3 months on a visitor visa. For longer study periods, you need a student visa (Subclass 500).

What is the 'no further stay' condition?

Condition 8503 (no further stay) means you cannot apply for most other visas while in Australia. This condition is applied to some visitor visas based on assessment.

Do I need a sponsor for visitor visa?

The Sponsored Family stream requires an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen to sponsor you. Other streams don't require sponsorship.

What financial evidence do I need?

Bank statements showing sufficient funds for your trip, evidence of employment/business in home country, and proof of accommodation arrangements in Australia.

Can I include family in my application?

Each person needs their own visa application. Family members can apply together, but each requires individual assessment and fees.

How do I prove genuine visitor intent?

Demonstrate strong ties to home country (employment, property, family), clear travel purpose, and genuine intent to leave Australia before visa expiry.

What happens if my visitor visa is refused?

If refused, you'll receive a decision letter explaining the reasons. You may have appeal rights depending on circumstances. Address the refusal reasons before reapplying.