Australia is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world — attracting millions of tourists, families, and business visitors each year. But after years of travel restrictions and uncertainty, many people still ask: "Is Australia open for visitor visas?"
The short answer is: Yes, Australia is open and actively processing visitor visa applications, including Tourist Visas (Subclass 600). However, it's important to understand the rules, visa types, and entry requirements before planning your trip.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Australia's visitor visa policies in 2025, along with your rights, responsibilities, and how to make the process smooth and successful.
Also Read- apply for an Australian student visa
What Is a Visitor Visa for Australia?
The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows people from around the world to enter Australia for tourism, visiting family or friends, or business visitor activities. It does not permit work, but it offers flexible options based on your travel purpose.
Apply for Visitor Visa Australia with expert guidance from Immigration Buddy.
Is Australia Currently Accepting Visitor Visa Applications?
Yes — as of 2025, Australia is fully open to tourists.
The Department of Home Affairs is accepting and processing visitor visa applications from all eligible countries, including India, the UK, the US, Canada, Southeast Asia, and many more.
COVID-19-related travel restrictions have been lifted, and standard visa rules now apply. You do not need to show proof of vaccination or quarantine on arrival — unless there's a new health emergency.
Whether you want to explore Sydney’s beaches or visit family in Melbourne, visitor visas are available.
Who Can Apply for an Australian Visitor Visa?
Anyone outside Australia can apply for a Visitor Visa Subclass 600 if they meet these criteria:
Hold a valid passport
Genuinely intend to stay temporarily
Have enough funds for your trip
Meet health and character requirements
Show strong ties to your home country (job, family, property, etc.)
Human Rights Perspective: Freedom to Travel and Visit Loved Ones
Travel is more than tourism. It’s a human right under Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — the right to move, visit, and reunite with family.
Australia’s visitor visa program respects this right by allowing people to:
Reunite with children, parents, or grandparents
Attend funerals, weddings, and important family events
Take part in business meetings or international conferences
Experience cultural exchange and education
Everyone has the right to mobility, connection, and dignity — regardless of borders.
Types of Visitor Visas (Subclass 600 Streams)
| Stream | Purpose | Stay Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Stream | Holiday or visit family | Up to 12 months |
| Sponsored Family Stream | Visit family (must be sponsored) | Up to 12 months |
| Business Visitor Stream | Attend business meetings/conferences | Up to 3 months |
| Approved Destination | For Chinese tourists in group tours | Varies |
| Frequent Traveller | High-volume travellers (by invitation) | Up to 10 years |
Key Requirements for Visitor Visa
To get your visitor visa approved quickly, ensure:
Clear purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, family, business)
Strong home country ties (job, property, family)
Evidence of financial means (bank statements, payslips)
Travel history (previous international travel helps)
Letter of invitation (for family visits)
For step-by-step details, visit: Visitor Visa Australia Guide
How Long Does It Take to Process a Visitor Visa?
In most cases, the processing time is:
| Application Type | 75% Processed Within |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (outside AU) | 18–28 days |
| Sponsored Family Visit | 20–40 days |
| Business Visitor | 10–20 days |
Delays may occur if:
Documents are missing
Medical exams are needed
You have a complex travel history
How Much Does an Australian Visitor Visa Cost?
Base application charge: AUD $190 (as of 2025)
Additional charges may apply for:
Biometrics
Health checks
Police certificates
There are no refunds if your visa is refused, so accurate paperwork is important.
Can You Visit Family with a Visitor Visa?
Yes! The Tourist Stream and Sponsored Family Stream are ideal if you wish to:
Attend weddings, births, or funerals
Visit children or elderly parents
Spend holidays with family in Australia
Sponsors may need to provide:
Statutory declaration
Proof of relationship
Accommodation support
Learn more about Parent Visa Options
Can You Extend a Visitor Visa in Australia?
No, you cannot extend your visitor visa beyond the allowed stay. If you want to stay longer, you must:
Apply for a new visitor visa before the old one expires, or
Explore other options like:
Student Visa Subclass 500
Medical Treatment Visa Subclass 602
Partner Visa Subclass 820
What If My Visitor Visa Is Refused?
Refusals happen, often due to:
Incomplete documents
Lack of funds
Doubts about returning home
If refused, you may:
Reapply with stronger evidence
Submit a Merits Review (if eligible)
Seek professional migration advice
How Immigration Buddy Can Help You
At Immigration Buddy, we believe freedom to travel is a right, not a luxury. Whether you're visiting Australia for family, business, or adventure — we are here to guide you.
We offer:
Visitor visa application support
Document checklist review
Sponsorship letter templates
Appeal help if refused
Contact us today to get started with your Visitor Visa Subclass 600.
