Australia offers several visitor visa options depending on your nationality and purpose of travel. The three main categories are the Visitor visa (subclass 600), eVisitor (subclass 651), and Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601). Each allows you to visit Australia for tourism, visiting family, or business activities.
Choosing the right visa category is essential for a smooth application. IAUK Manchester helps you identify the correct visa type, compile the necessary documentation, and submit a strong application that meets Australian immigration requirements.
| Feature | Subclass 600 | eVisitor (651) | ETA (601) |
|---|---|---|---|
| For whom | Most nationalities | 36 European countries | 8 specific countries |
| Cost | AUD $190-$1,120 | Free | AUD $20 |
| Stay length | 3, 6, or 12 months | Up to 3 months | Up to 3 months |
| Validity | Up to 12 months | 12 months | 12 months |
| Processing | Days to weeks | Minutes to days | Minutes to days |
Australia has strict health requirements for visa applicants. Depending on your nationality, age, and length of stay, you may need to undergo medical examinations before your visa can be granted.
Required for applicants from countries with higher TB risk or stays over 3 months
May be required for longer stays or applicants with pre-existing conditions
Strongly recommended — Medicare reciprocal agreement with the UK covers only essential treatment
Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from a yellow fever risk country
UK citizens can apply for an eVisitor visa (subclass 651), which is free of charge and allows stays of up to 3 months. It is processed electronically and usually approved within minutes to a few days.
Subclass 600 is the standard visitor visa for nationals who don’t qualify for eVisitor or ETA. Subclass 651 (eVisitor) is a free electronic visa for passport holders from 36 European countries including the UK. Subclass 601 (ETA) is for passport holders from 8 countries including the US, Canada, and Japan.
The eVisitor (subclass 651) allows stays of up to 3 months per visit within a 12-month validity period. The subclass 600 can be granted for 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your circumstances.
While not strictly mandatory for short tourist visits, travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Australia has reciprocal healthcare agreements with some countries (including the UK via Medicare), but this only covers essential treatment, not all medical costs.
No. Visitor visas do not permit any form of work in Australia. If you want to work, you need a separate work visa such as a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) or employer-sponsored visa.
Depending on your nationality and length of stay, you may need to undergo a health examination. Applicants from countries with higher tuberculosis risk may need a chest X-ray. Your visa grant letter will specify any health requirements.
Get expert guidance on your Australian visitor visa application.
