Planning a holiday Down Under? Whether you’re a British citizen heading for a gap year or a UK resident (of another nationality) visiting family, getting your tourist visa sorted is the first step to your Australian adventure.
In 2026, the process remains largely digital, but knowing which visa to apply for is crucial. British citizens enjoy a special streamlined option, while other UK residents must navigate the standard application.
This guide breaks down the options, including the UK to Australia specific eVisitor, the standard subclass 600, and the step-by-step application for Australian tourist visa process.
1. Which Visa Do You Need? (Crucial Step)
Your passport determines your visa. Don’t pay for the wrong one!
Option A: For British Citizens (The “Free” Option)
- Visa Name: eVisitor (Subclass 651)
- Cost: Free (No government fee).
- Validity: 12 months.
- Stay Duration: Up to 3 months per visit (multiple entries allowed).
- Processing Time: Fast! often approved in 24–48 hours (sometimes minutes).
- Who is it for? ONLY for British Citizen passport holders. (Also citizens of most EU countries).
- How to Apply: Directly via the Department of Home Affairs website. Warning: Third-party sites charge fees for this. Always use the official government site.
Option B: For UK Residents (Non-British/Non-EU Citizens)
- Visa Name: Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
- Cost: AUD $200 (approx. £105).
- Validity: Usually 12 months (or customized to your travel dates).
- Stay Duration: Up to 3, 6, or 12 months (decided by the case officer).
- Processing Time: Slower. 20–35 days on average.
- Who is it for? Indian, Chinese, Nigerian, South African, etc. passport holders living in the UK on a BRP (Biometric Residence Permit).
Note: There is also an ETA (Subclass 601), but it costs AUD $20 and is mostly for US, Canadian, and some Asian passport holders. British citizens should stick to the free eVisitor (651).
2. Step-by-Step: Application for Australian Tourist Visa (Subclass 600)
If you are a UK resident (not a British citizen), follow this process. British citizens can skip to the “Tips” section as their eVisitor form is simple.
Step 1: Create an ImmiAccount
- Go to the official Department of Home Affairs website.
- Create a “User Account” (Individual).
Step 2: Fill the Form (1419 Questions)
- Select “New Application” > “Visitor” > “Visitor Visa (600)”.
- Critical Question: “Current Location”. Ensure you select “UK”.
- Be honest about your employment and previous travel history.
Step 3: Upload Documents (The “make or break” step)
You must prove you will return to the UK.
- Passport: Bio page + UK Visa/BRP copy.
- Proof of Funds: 3 months of UK bank statements. (Aim for approx. AUD $5,000 / £2,600 per person).
- Employment Letter: A letter from your UK employer confirming your leave dates and that you have a job to return to.
- Ties to UK: Tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or utility bills in your name.
- Itinerary: A simple list of planned cities (e.g., “Sydney – 5 days, Melbourne – 4 days”). Do not book flights yet.
Step 4: Pay & Submit
- Fee: AUD $200.
- You may be asked to do biometrics (fingerprints) at a collection centre in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, depending on your nationality.
3. 2026 Processing Times & Fees
| Visa Subclass | Cost (AUD) | Approx. Cost (£) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisitor (651) | Free | £0 | < 2 days |
| Visitor (600) | $200 | ~£105 | 20 – 35 days |
| Priority (Fast Track) | $1,200 | ~£630 | 2 – 3 days |
Note: Priority processing is available for Subclass 600 if you are in a rush, but it is expensive.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need health insurance for an Australia tourist visa?
For British citizens, it is highly recommended but usually not mandatory, thanks to the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) which covers essential emergency care. However, the RHCA does not cover ambulances, dental, or elective treatment.
For non-British residents (Subclass 600), health insurance is strongly advised and may be a mandatory visa condition (Condition 8501) if you are over 75 or staying for a long period (e.g., 12 months).
Q2: Can I work on an Australia tourist visa?
No. Both the eVisitor (651) and Visitor Visa (600) strictly prohibit work. You cannot take up paid employment. However, you can do genuine volunteer work (unpaid) if it is incidental to your holiday, or study for a short course (under 3 months).
Q3: Can I extend my eVisitor (651) visa?
No. You cannot “extend” an eVisitor visa. If you want to stay longer than 3 months, you must apply for a new visa (like the Subclass 600 Onshore Tourist Stream) before your current 3-month stay expires. This onshore application costs significantly more (approx. AUD $490).
Q4: Do I need to print my visa?
No. Australian visas are digital and electronically linked to your passport. You do not need a label in your passport. However, it is smart to keep a digital or printed copy of your “Visa Grant Notice” email on your phone just in case an airline requests it.
Q5: I have a criminal record. Can I apply for the eVisitor (651)?
Usually No. The eVisitor system automatically checks for character issues. If you have a criminal conviction (especially one with a sentence of 12 months or more, even if suspended), you may be ineligible. You should apply for the Subclass 600 instead, where you can provide full details and police certificates to prove your character.
5. Expert Tips for Approval
- British Citizens: Double-check your criminal record question. If you have any criminal conviction (even a driving offence resulting in a court appearance), you might not be eligible for the eVisitor and may need to apply for the Subclass 600 instead to provide character details.
- UK Residents: Your “Ties to the UK” are the most important part. If you are on a temporary visa (like a Graduate or Student visa) that expires soon, explain your plans after that visa ends.
Need Help with a Complex Case?
If you have a criminal record, a previous visa refusal, or a complicated residency status in the UK, a standard application might get rejected.
Contact Ausizz Migration Consultants:
- Website: www.ausizzmigrationconsultants.com
