Australia is one of the world’s most visited destinations, admired for its breathtaking scenery, lively cities, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're travelling for a holiday, business trip, or to meet loved ones, the Visitor Visa 600 (subclass 600) is your key to exploring the country. This guide explains everything you need to know—from requirements and fees to application steps and visa conditions.
What is a 600 Visitor Visa?
Travelers can enter Australia for a brief stay with the Visitor Visa 600. It is appropriate for travelers, business travelers, and people who want to see friends or family. There are several streams for this visa, each with its own eligibility requirements and intended travel purpose.
Different Visitor Visa 600 Stream Types
1. Tourist Stream
Ideal for travelers visiting Australia for holidays, recreation, sightseeing, or short-term family visits.
2. Business Visitor Stream
Designed for business-related trips such as attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, or other short-term activities.
3. Family-Sponsored Stream
For applicants visiting family members in Australia, sponsorship is required from an eligible Australian relative.
Visitor Visa 600 Requirements
Before applying, it’s important to understand the general and stream-specific requirements.
General Requirements
Genuine temporary stay: You must show that you intend to leave Australia before your visa expires.
Sufficient funds: You must prove that you can financially support yourself throughout your stay.
Health and character: Applicants may be required to undergo health checks or provide police clearances
Stream-Specific Requirements
Tourist Stream: Travel plans, itinerary, or accommodation details.
Business Visitor Stream: Evidence of business activities, such as invitation letters or event registrations.
Family-Sponsored Stream: Proof of relationship with your sponsor and their commitment to support your visit.
How to Apply for the Visitor Visa 600
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Start by filling out the Visitor Visa Subclass 600 application. The online application through the Department of Home Affairs website is the quickest and most convenient option.
Step 2: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Common document checklists include:
Valid copyright
Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, employment proofs)
Health and character documents
Invitations from family or business contacts
Travel itinerary and accommodation details
Evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., return tickets, employment)
Step 3: Lodge Your Application & Pay the Fee
Submit your fully completed application and pay the applicable visa fee. Fees vary depending on your chosen stream, so check the latest charges before applying.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing times differ for each stream and can range from a few weeks to several months. Additional documents may be requested during the assessment.
Step 5: Receive the Visa Decision
If approved, your visa will be electronically linked to your copyright. It will outline your stay period, entry permissions, and attached conditions.
Common Visitor Visa 600 Conditions
No work rights: This visa does not permit employment in Australia.
Stay duration: Usually between 3, 6, or 12 months.
Travel restrictions: Some visas may restrict travel in or out of Australia.
How Long Can You Stay in Australia?
The stay period depends on your visa stream and individual circumstances. Most travelers receive permission to stay for 3, 6, or 12 months. Extensions may be possible, but approval depends on meeting eligibility criteria and providing updated evidence.
Extending a Visitor Visa 600
Before your current visa expires, you can apply for an extension. A legitimate reason for extending your stay, current health checks, and proof of ongoing financial stability are typically required for approval, which is not guaranteed.
Parents' 600 Visitor Visa
Parents may apply under the Family-Sponsored Stream if they want to visit their kids in Australia. The child must consent to serve as the sponsor and be an Australian citizen, copyright, or eligible citizen of New Zealand.
Visitor Visa 600 Application Fee
Fees depend on the selected stream and may range from AUD 145 to AUD 365 (as of 2025). Additional costs may apply for dependents, health checks, or fast processing. Always verify the latest fee on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I work in Australia on this visa?
No. The Visitor Visa 600 does not allow any form of paid work.
2. How long does processing take?
Processing times vary widely—from 15 days to several months—depending on your stream and application complexity.
3. Can I apply online?
Yes, the entire Visitor Visa 600 application can be completed online.
4. What conditions apply to this visa?
Conditions generally include limited stay periods, no employment, and specific travel permissions.
Applying for the Visitor Visa 600 becomes much easier when you understand the requirements and prepare your documents carefully. Whether your trip is for tourism, work-related visits, or reconnecting with family, this visa offers a flexible and simple way to enjoy Australia for a short stay. By following this guide, you can make the application process smoother and increase your chances of a hassle-free approval.
Conclusion
Understanding the requirements, preparing the necessary paperwork, and carefully following each step make applying for the Visitor Visa 600 much easier. This visa provides an easy way to visit Australia for a brief period of time, whether you're traveling for business, pleasure, or to see loved ones. An immigration agent in Perth can help expedite the process and increase your chances of a successful outcome if you want professional advice or individualized support throughout your application.