Australia Tourist Visa Cost: A Complete Guide
Planning a trip to Australia? Whether you’re visiting for leisure, exploring the stunning landscapes, or experiencing the vibrant cities, obtaining an Australia tourist visa is an essential step. Understanding the Australia tourist visa cost is crucial for budgeting your trip. In this guide, we’ll break down the different visa options and their associated costs, helping you plan your travel expenses effectively.
Types of Australia Tourist Visas and Their Costs
Australia offers several tourist visa options, each with varying costs based on your nationality, the type of visa, and the length of stay. Below are the most common types of Australia tourist visas and their costs.
1. eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)
The eVisitor visa (subclass 651) is an electronic visa available to citizens of eligible countries who want to visit Australia for tourism or business purposes. It’s the most affordable tourist visa option for eligible travelers.
- Cost: The eVisitor visa is free for citizens of most eligible countries, such as citizens from the European Union, the United Kingdom, and several other countries.
- Duration: The visa allows you to stay for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. It’s a great option for those planning short trips to Australia.
- Application Process: The application for the eVisitor visa can be completed online through the Australian Government's official immigration website. Once approved, the visa is electronically linked to your passport, and you don’t need a physical visa sticker.
2. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
The Visitor visa (subclass 600) is another popular option for tourists planning to visit Australia. Unlike the eVisitor visa, the Visitor visa (subclass 600) is available to a wider range of nationalities and can be used for both tourism and business purposes.
- Cost: The Visitor visa (subclass 600) typically costs between AUD 145 and AUD 1,065, depending on the visa stream you choose (tourist stream, business visitor stream, etc.). The cost can vary based on the duration of stay and the applicant’s nationality.
- Duration: This visa allows you to stay for up to 12 months. You may be granted a visa for a shorter period, depending on the information you provide during the application process.
- Application Process: The application for the Visitor visa (subclass 600) can be completed online, and you may need to submit additional documents, such as proof of financial support, travel plans, and health insurance. Processing times for this visa can be longer compared to the eVisitor visa.
3. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (Subclass 601)
The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601) is an electronic visa available to citizens of specific countries, including the United States, Canada, and several others. It’s ideal for travelers who are planning a short visit for tourism or business.
- Cost: The ETA (subclass 601) costs approximately AUD 20 for an online application.
- Duration: The ETA (subclass 601) typically allows for stays of up to three months within a 12-month period.
- Application Process: The ETA application process is quick and easy, and it can be done online. Once granted, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport.
4. Tourist Stream of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Extended Stays
If you are considering a longer stay in Australia for tourism purposes, the Visitor visa (subclass 600) tourist stream might be the best option. This visa is designed for travelers who wish to stay in Australia for longer than three months but less than a year.
- Cost: The cost for an extended stay Visitor visa (subclass 600) is typically around AUD 370.
- Duration: This visa allows stays of up to 12 months, depending on the specific circumstances and visa conditions.
- Application Process: The application requires submitting proof of sufficient funds, travel plans, and possibly a health examination, depending on your country of residence.
Factors That Affect the Australia Tourist Visa Cost
The Australia tourist visa cost can vary depending on several factors:
Visa Type: Different visa types come with different costs. For example, the eVisitor visa is free, while the Visitor visa (subclass 600) can be more expensive depending on the length of stay and the purpose of your visit.
Country of Residence: The visa cost can vary depending on your nationality and where you are applying from. Citizens of certain countries may qualify for a lower-cost visa or may be eligible for different visa streams.
Duration of Stay: If you’re applying for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) and requesting a longer stay (e.g., more than three months), the cost is usually higher than applying for a short-term visa.
Application Method: Some visa options, such as the ETA, are less expensive if applied for online. Applying through a visa center or agent can incur additional service fees.
Additional Fees: Some applicants may incur additional costs if they need to provide extra documents, undergo health checks, or pay for biometrics.
How to Pay for Your Australia Tourist Visa
When applying for an Australia tourist visa online, you will typically be asked to pay the visa application fee as part of the submission process. Payment can be made using a valid credit or debit card, and the payment will be processed immediately. Make sure to double-check the amount due for your specific visa type before proceeding with payment.
Tips for a Smooth Australia Tourist Visa Application
To ensure your Australia tourist visa application process goes smoothly and without delays, follow these tips:
Apply Early: It’s a good idea to apply for your Australia tourist visa well in advance of your planned travel dates. Some visas may take several weeks to process, so applying early will give you ample time to address any issues.
Check Visa Eligibility: Before you apply, ensure you’re applying for the correct visa and that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Provide Accurate Information: When filling out your visa application, ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date. Incorrect information can lead to delays or a rejection of your application.
Have Sufficient Funds: For most visa types, you’ll need to show proof that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Australia, including accommodation, food, and travel expenses.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Make sure you gather all the necessary documents to support your application. This may include proof of funds, travel plans, health insurance, and ties to your home country.
Conclusion
The Australia tourist visa cost can vary depending on the type of visa you apply for and your specific circumstances. While some visas, like the eVisitor visa, are free, others like the Visitor visa (subclass 600) or ETA may have associated fees. Understanding the costs and choosing the right visa option for your trip will help ensure a smooth application process and an enjoyable visit to Australia. Don’t forget to apply early and prepare all necessary documents to avoid any delays.
Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.
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