Planning a trip to Australia often means picturing yourself standing before the Sydney Opera House, marvelling at the Great Barrier Reef, or soaking up the sun on Gold Coast beaches. To make that trip happen, travellers need a Visitor Visa.

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Tourist Stream is the most common option, and understanding its rules and requirements can make your journey smoother and stress-free.

Tourist stream of the Subclass 600 visa

The Tourist Stream under this visa lets you visit Australia as a tourist, go on a cruise, or meet family and friends.

To be eligible, applicants must travel only for tourism or family purposes, prove they have enough funds to cover their stay, and agree not to work in Australia. Both the application and decision must take place while the applicant is outside Australia.

Stay: Up to 12 months

Cost: From AUD 200 (around ₹11,741)

This visa allows you to:

  • Visit friends or family
  • Travel for holidays, a cruise, or other non-business, non-medical reasons

Key eligibility requirements

To qualify for the visa, applicants must meet certain conditions:

  • Health: You need to meet Australia’s strict health standards.
  • Character: People with criminal charges or convictions, either in Australia or elsewhere, may be refused entry.
  • Debts: Any money owed to the Australian government must be cleared or repayment arrangements made before applying.
  • Financial proof: Applicants should show they have funds or access to money for the entire visit.
  • Genuine visitor: You must intend to stay temporarily and follow all visa rules.
  • Children: If the applicant is under 18, the visa can be refused if it is not in the best interests of the child.

Visa conditions after approval

Once the visa is granted, several rules apply:

  • No work: Paid employment is not allowed.
  • Study limit: Study or training cannot exceed three months.
  • Insurance: Adequate health cover should be maintained during the stay.
  • No further stay: You cannot apply for most other visas while in Australia.
  • Expiry: You must leave before the visa runs out.
  • Residency rule: Staying longer than 12 months in an 18-month period is not permitted.

Visa fee for Indian applicants

The base application fee is AUD 200 (Rs 11,742.68 approx). However, the final cost may vary depending on payment method, service charges, or document requirements. As the exchange rate fluctuates, the INR amount may differ at the time of payment.

Applicants should also plan for extra expenses such as health insurance, courier services, or translation fees.

Processing timelines

Processing speeds differ based on demand and the accuracy of submitted applications.

  • 75 percent of cases are processed within 3–4 weeks
  • 90 percent are processed within 6–8 weeks

Delays are common if documents are missing, health checks are incomplete, or additional details are requested. Submitting a complete, “decision-ready” application is the best way to avoid setbacks.

Step-by-step application process

Before applying

  • Check passport validity.
  • Complete required health examinations.
  • Decide if you want a registered migration agent or legal adviser.

Prepare documents

  • Attach all supporting documents.
  • Provide translations into English if required.

Since applications may be finalised without further requests, ensure everything is complete.

Submit application

  • Enter accurate details.
  • Apply online via ImmiAccount.

After submission

  • You will get a confirmation once documents are received.
  • Provide further details promptly if asked.

Visa decision

  • If approved, you will receive the grant letter with visa number, conditions, and validity dates.
  • If refused, you will get the reasons and information on appeal options.

Biometrics and health checks for Indian applicants

Most Indian travellers must provide biometrics after applying. This usually means fingerprints and a digital photograph taken at VFS Global centres across Indian cities.

Health checks may also be needed based on your stay length, age, and medical history. These could include medical exams, X-rays, or blood tests at approved clinics.

Applicants must cover the costs themselves. Submitting biometrics and medicals quickly prevents delays.

Tips for a faster application

  • Provide a clear copy of your passport’s personal details page.
  • Ensure your name matches the passport exactly (watch for autocorrect errors). Mention all current and past names used.
  • Add details of your travel plans with an itinerary if possible.
  • Show proof for urgent or compassionate travel if relevant.
  • Submit records of past travel.
  • Provide ties to India, such as employment letters, payslips, school enrolment papers, or children’s birth certificates.
  • Include an invitation letter from family or friends in Australia, if applicable.
  • Attach bank statements to prove financial capacity.
  • Provide all requested documents, even if you had this visa before.
  • If using a migration agent or lawyer, submit Form 956. If authorising another person to receive documents, submit Form 956A.
  • Translate non-English documents with translator details.
  • Choose electronic communication in ImmiAccount to receive updates faster.

Why visas get refused

Some of the most common reasons for rejection are:

  • Incorrect or incomplete documents
  • Weak financial proof
  • Unclear travel purpose or missing itinerary
  • Lack of ties to India
  • Concerns flagged during health or character checks
  • Outstanding government debts

Avoiding these errors improves your chance of approval.

Extra rules for under-18 applicants

Applicants below 18 must provide additional documents:

  • Birth certificate with both parents’ names
  • Copies of parents’ or guardians’ passports
  • Proof of guardianship (if not biological parents)
  • Parental consent through Form 1229 or a statutory declaration
  • If staying with someone other than a guardian, Form 1257 must be completed by the nominated person