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Australian Visa and Entry Requirements FAQs

Learn about visa requirements for entry to Australia for tourism purposes with this list of frequently asked questions. 

Please note this page is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. For information on visas to enter Australia, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information from Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .*

Ready to plan your trip? We're ready to welcome you! Here are some helpful tips for getting your visa sorted: 

• Be sure to secure the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia. Use the Visa Finder to explore your options.
• Ensure all details are correct and provide all required documents when you apply. An incomplete or incorrect application can delay your visa.
• Submitting multiple applications at the same time can slow the process. For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children. 
• Questions? The Australian Government's Global Service Centre can help.

Australian Visa Information

Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of Australian visa types, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, via the ETA app or on the  Department of Home Affairs website.

There are different Australian visa types available for travellers to Australia. Knowing which Australian visa to apply for depends on the length of your stay, your passport and the purpose of your visit. You’ll also need to meet certain financial and medical requirements, be outside of Australia when applying and maintain health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) This visa allows you to visit Australia as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay for three months each visit. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of countries and regions, who live outside Australia. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is  here .

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app. Agents can assist you in the application process, but you must be physically present as a live facial image is required.

eVisitor  (subclass 651) This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of European countries and it cannot be extended.

Visitor visa  (subclass 600) The Visitor visa allows you to visit Australia, either for tourism or business purposes. It is open to all nationalities. Generally, a period of stay of up to three months is granted, but up to 12 months may be granted in certain circumstances. Applicants will have to pay a fee to submit their application.

The application process may differ depending on which visa you need.

You can only apply for the  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located  here .

For other visas, you can apply online by creating an ImmiAccount and completing the application process. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of your travel date to allow enough time for processing. You may be asked to provide further supporting information. You will be notified in writing if your tourist visa is approved and it will be digitally linked to your passport. For more information on different visa types, and Australian visa requirements including how to apply for an Australian visa, visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website.

If you are already in Australia and hold a valid Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) you can extend your stay by applying for another visa, such as a Visitor visa (subclass 600). An eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot be extended.

See the Department of Home Affairs website for details.

Working Holiday Visas

Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions.

Find out more about working holiday visas here .

*Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check this information is still current by visiting the Australian Department of Home Affairs .

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Australia Visitor Visa: Requirements, Eligibility and Application Process

Updated: February 7, 2024

Australia Visitor Visa is the only option to visit Australia as a tourist for many nationalities. If you don’t qualify for either the Electronic Travel Authority(ETA) or the eVisitor Visa, then you will need to get a Visitor Visa.

Australia no longer accepts paper applications for the visitor visa. All applications must be lodged online through the Australian Government Immi Portal.

The Visitor Visa has subclass 600 in Australia’s visa documentation and the subtype we’re interested in is the “Tourist stream (apply outside Australia)”.

Quick summary:

• Eligibility: All nationalities are eligible
• Validity: Valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years with single or multiple entries
• Duration of stay: Generally, 3 months allowed stay, but up to 6 or 12 in some cases
• Visa fee: Visitors visa fee is 190 AUD
• Processing time: 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% in 21 days.

If you haven’t already, read the  Australia Visa Guide  to familiarize yourself with Australian tourist visa types, requirements, eligibility and entry procedures at the border.

Table of Contents

Understanding australia visitor visa.

Visitor visa validity

The Australian Visitor visa is valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years from the date of issue. The validity of the visa depends on your nationality and circumstances. For example, most Indian passport holders get a 3-year valid Australian visa, whereas Phillippine passport holders get a 1-year valid visa. Pakistan nationals get a 6-month validity.

You must visit Australia within the validity of your visa.

Duration of stay

Most Visitor visas granted allow for 3 months of continuous stay in Australia. Depending on circumstances, you might be granted a stay of 6 months or even 12 months.

Allowed number of entries

Most Visitor visas are multiple-entry , but Home Affairs also issues single visas in certain circumstances for certain nationalities.

When to apply

Since the tourist visas are valid for at least 3 months, it’s a good idea to apply well in advance. Most applications get processed in 3 weeks or fewer.

Visa extension

Australia Visitor visa is non-extendable . If you need to  extend your stay in Australia , you are allowed to apply for another Visitor Visa (onshore) from within the country.

Australia Visitor Visa Requirements

Who requires a Visitor Visa?

Australia Visitor Visa is REQUIRED for all nationalities to enter Australia as a tourist, except for the below.

• New Zealand passport holders
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• eVisitor Visa
• Those transiting in Australia for less than 72 hours and can get a Transit visa .

Documents required

To support your application, you can attach as many as 60 documents online. You don’t have to attach that many but the more documents you provide, the better your chances of approval.

You have to satisfy the Home Office that:

• You are who you say you are
• You are a genuine visitor who will not overstay or work illegally
• You are of good character and not have a criminal record
• You won’t be a burden to Australia’s healthcare system

To do this, attach as many of these documents as you can :

Identity documents

• Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of the stay)
• Valid National ID card (if from a country that issues them)
• marriage or divorce certificate;
• change of name documents;
• documents that show other names you have been known by
• Residence Permit/Visa (if residence and citizenship differ)
• One passport-size photo

Genuine visitor documents

• Itemized personal bank statements for the last 3 months. Aim to have at least 5000 AUD in your bank account. The money cannot be deposited suddenly and inexplicably – it should be from legitimate sources and savings over time.
• Tax returns
• Credit card statements
• their relationship to you
• the purpose of your visit and length of stay
• if you will be staying with them
• Proof of their funds (if they will be paying for your stay)
• Your plans or travel itinerary while in Australia  
• a letter from your employer stating you plan to return to your job
• proof that you study at a school, college or university in your home country
• proof that you have immediate family members in your home country
• proof that you own a house or other major assets in your home country;
• Confirmed return flight ticket;
• Health Insurance

At a later date, you may be required to obtain and submit the following:

• Medical Certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

All non-English documents (except for police certificates) must be translated into English and all documents’ copies (both original and translations) must be certified.

Photo requirements

You need one passport-size digital photo for the Visitor Visa application. The photo must meet the following requirements. 

• Taken in the last 6 months
• Showing your head and shoulders against a plain background
• Neutral facial expression with mouth closed, eyes open, and looking at the camera
• Religious head coverings are allowed but must not obscure the face
• Piercing is allowed but must not cause any reflections or shadows

There is no official guidance for the size and resolution of pictures uploaded online but the file type must be JPG. You will get to move the photo to position your face within a frame.

As long as the picture is clear, crisp, and not excessively big, it will be accepted.

Visitor visa fee

The Australian Tourist Visa application fee is 190 AUD , payable online.

You may also have to pay for:

• Health checks
• Police certificates

Processing time

Australian immigration reports that 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% are processed in 21 days . These periods start after you submit your biometrics (if required).

Visitor Visa Application Process

How to apply

You must apply for your tourist visa online through the Immi Portal. Applying on paper is not possible for the visitor visa anymore. Follow the below steps:

• Go to the ImmiAccount portal and create an account
• Click on “New application” and pick “Visitor Visa (600)”.
• Enter your personal information, passport details, employment details and financial information
• Upload your documents such as passport, photo, etc.
• Pay the required visa fee
• Submit the application

The Visitor Visa is part of Australia’s biometrics program. If you apply for a Visitor Visa from any of the below countries, regardless of your nationality, you must give your biometrics.

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kazakhstan 
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates

If you apply from one of these countries, you will receive an email informing you that you need to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) to have your biometrics collected. The biometrics are usually a face photo and fingerprint scan.

You must complete the biometrics procedure within 14 days of getting this email otherwise your application becomes void without a refund!

AABCs are typically managed by VFS Global. They charge a service fee for biometric collection. This fee depends on AABC and the country you are applying from.

For example, the biometric service at AABC in Dubai, UAE is AED 109.17. The biometric service fee at AABC in Manila, Philippines is PHP 557.

How to schedule biometric appointment?

Within 24 hours of applying for your Visitor Visa, you will receive an email with a biometric request letter from Home Affairs. Follow these steps to schedule your biometric appointment.

Find the nearest ABCC to you and follow the prompts to schedule your biometric appointment.

How to attend biometric appointment?

Follow the below steps to attend your biometric appointment at an AABC.

• Arrive at the AABC at least 15 minutes before your appointment time
• Original passport
• Biometric appointment confirmation
• Biometric fee receipt and
• Biometric request letter received in the email from Home Affairs
• Your facial photo is taken and your 10 fingertips are scanned

What if you can’t attend your appointment?

If you can’t make an appointment, you can reschedule your appointment up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment date and time. You can reschedule up to 2 times.

What if you miss your appointment?

If you miss your scheduled appointment, you will lose the fee paid as the biometric fee is nonrefundable. You will also have to wait 24 hours to schedule a new appointment.

How to track status

You will receive the status of your application in your email. You can also track the status of the visa in your ImmiAccount.

How to download approved visa

When your Visitor Visa is approved, you will receive a grant letter in your email from Home Affairs. The grant letter is your Visitor Visa.

The Visitor visa is electronically linked to your passport, so you don’t need to download or print your Visitor Visa.

If you’re ever asked to show any proof, you can use the Grant Notification you received in your email. You can also download it from your ImmiAccount under “Visa Grant Details”.

How to check the validity of your Visitor Visa

The expiration date of your Australia eVisitor visa is indicated as “Must not arrive after” on the visa letter. If you lost your grant letter or don’t have a copy of your Visitor Visa, you can check the validity details on the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) portal by using either your Visa Grant Number or Transaction Reference Number.

Customer service

Refer to the Self-help Guidelines for information to troubleshoot any issues. If facing issues with your ImmiAccount or the Visitor visa application, contact customer service using the below webform

Web: ImmiAccount Technical Support Form

Procedure at the border

The Visitor Visa is digitally attached to your passport so you don’t need to print anything. When you enter Australia, simply present your passport and be ready to answer a few basic questions about your visit.

Eligible passport holders can use the Smart Gates for faster arrival and departure procedures.

All visitors including Australian citizens are required to fill out an Incoming Passenger Card on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get an australian tourist visa.

It can take up to 3 weeks to get an Australian tourist visa, especially if submitting your biometrics. It can be faster or slower depending on where you are applying from, your circumstances and the number of documents you submit.

How hard is it to get a tourist visa to Australia?

It is easy to get a tourist visa to Australia if you submit a complete application with as many documents. You must convince the Home Office that you won’t overstay or break the conditions of the visa.

How much bank balance is required for Australia tourist visa?

Australian Home Office doesn’t specify the minimum bank balance required for a tourist visa. Your bank account must show continuous cash flow and not a lump sum deposited recently. 

Based on the reports from travelers reports and recommendations from embassies, you should aim for at least 5,000 AUD in your bank account when you apply.

Can you get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia?

Yes, you can get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia if are from an eligible country and meet the requirements. Australian Visitor Visa is issued for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years depending on your nationality and circumstances. For example, Indian nationals can get an Australian tourist visa valid for 3 years.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Visas to visit Australia

Whether you are visiting Australia for less than 72 hours or planning on a stay of several years you must have a valid Australian visa.

A visa is a form of permission for a non-citizen to enter, transit or remain in a particular country.

Information on visas to Australia can be found at the Department of Home Affairs .

Related links

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Visa requirements

Health requirements and panel physicians.

Australia enjoys some of the best health standards in the world. To maintain these standards, most visa applicants are required to meet certain minimum health standards in order to be granted a visa. We refer to this as meeting 'the health requirement'.

For information on meeting the health requirement visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

See the department's list of office locations to find  information on panel physicians in your location that have been approved to perform medical examinations on visa applicants outside Australia.

Character requirements

Everyone who wants to enter Australia must be of good character and will be assessed against the character requirements. Applicants must declare all recorded offences to us. If you do not declare an offence and we become aware of this it might have a negative impact on your application.

For information on how character is assessed, visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

If requested, you must provide a police certificate from each country where you have lived for a total of 12 months or more in the last 10 years, since turning 16 years of age.

Applicants currently living in the United States may be requested to obtain both a State-wide police clearance from each State of residence in the USA during the last 12 months AND an FBI clearance in their current name and any other name they are known by or have previously been known by.

If applicable, you must also provide:

• court papers listing the outcomes and dispositions of any charges listed on the FBI clearance, US State police clearance, or other police certificates/clearances
• any document(s) associated with your arrest, time served and release documents
• a written statement from you detailing each arrest/offence/conviction.

Obtaining an FBI clearance (US citizens and permanent residents)

US citizens and permanent residents can apply directly to the FBI or to one of four department approved channelers listed below to obtain an Identity History Summary Check.

Approved channelers:

• Accurate Biometrics
• National Credit Reporting
• National Background Check Inc  
• Telos Identity Management Solutions

Obtaining an FBI clearance (US temporary residents and visitors)

US temporary residents and visitors can apply directly to the FBI to obtain an Identity History Summary Check.

Obtaining a state police clearance

Apply to the relevant state police department. Please ensure the clearance is requested for all names you have been known by.

The type of certificate issued depends on individual state procedures.

The Australian Government has incorporated the collection of biometrics into the visa application process outside Australia.

Applicants lodging visa applications in selected locations, regardless of nationality, may be requested to attend an AVAC or an ABCC in person to lodge their application and/or provide their biometrics.

For more information on biometrics and collection of biometrics, visit the Department of Home Affairs website .

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A Step-by-Step Guide to the Australian Visa Application Process

May 09, 2023

Understanding the Different Visa Types

Start by familiarizing yourself with the various visa options available for immigration to Australia. Some common visa categories include:

• Family Visas
• Study Visas
• Business Visas
• Working Holiday Visas

Consider your personal circumstances and goals to determine the most suitable visa type for your needs.

Assessing Your Eligibility

Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria that must be met. Evaluate your qualifications and experience against the requirements to ensure you are eligible for your chosen visa category.

Preparing Your Documentation

Gather and organize all necessary documents for your application, such as proof of identity, qualifications, work experience, and financial support. This may vary depending on the visa type.

Translating Non-English Documents

If any of your documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated by an accredited translator.

Completing the Visa Application Form

Fill out the appropriate visa application form online through the Australian Government’s ImmiAccount system. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or refusals.

Paying the Visa Application Fee

Pay the required visa application fee online using a credit card or other accepted payment methods. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.

Submitting Your Application and Supporting Documents

Submit your completed visa application form and all required documents through the ImmiAccount system. Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.

Waiting for a Decision

Visa processing times vary depending on the visa type and individual circumstances. You can check the current processing times on the Australian Government’s website.

Receiving Your Visa Grant

If your application is successful, you will receive a visa grant notification. Make note of your visa grant number, as you may need it for future reference.

Making Arrangements to Move to Australia

After receiving your visa, start making arrangements for your move to Australia. This includes finding accommodation, enrolling in schools (if applicable), and organizing your finances. For more information on living in Australia , visit this page .

Seeking Professional Advice

If you require assistance with your Australian visa application process, consider booking a consultation with a Migration Consultant who can guide you through each step and ensure a smooth experience.

In summary, applying for an Australian visa involves understanding the different visa types, assessing your eligibility, preparing your documentation, completing the visa application form, paying the fee, submitting your application, and awaiting a decision. Once granted, make arrangements for your move and settle into your new life in Australia. Don’t hesitate to book a consultation with a Migration Consultant if you need professional guidance during the process.

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Getting ready to apply for a visa?

How and When to Get a Visa to Visit Australia

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

US citizens can travel to many countries visa-free, but Australia isn't one of them. If you're thinking about traveling to Australia, you'll need to plan ahead and obtain valid travel documentation. Here's what you need to know before traveling to Australia as a US citizen with a US passport.

What Visa Do I Need?

The Australian government makes it easy to determine the visa you need with its Visa Finder website . This website asks three questions, the first of which is about the purpose of your trip (think: vacation, visiting relations, attending an event, doing business and seeking medical treatment, among others):

The next question asks the country of your passport:

And the final question asks how long you'd like to stay in Australia — either less than or more than three months.

Most travelers from the US will likely be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) — also called an ETA — as I was for my most recent month-long trip.

This is because an ETA is available to US citizens visiting Australia for three months for reasons that fit into the following categories:

• Holiday or vacation
• Visit to see friends or family
• Select business activities such as general business or employment inquiries; investigate, negotiate, sign or review a business contract; or attend a conference, trade fair or seminar

Since most US citizens traveling to Australia will be traveling for one of these reasons (and, as a result, are eligible to apply for an ETA) I'll focus on ETAs available to US citizens with a US passport.

What Are the Requirements?

To apply for an ETA, you must:

• Have a valid passport from an eligible country (including the US).
• Apply while outside Australia.
• Wish to stay no longer than three months at a time (you must not study for more than three months, for example).
• Be free from tuberculosis.
• Not have any criminal convictions for which you have been sentenced for a total combined period of 12 months or more, whether or not you served the sentence(s).
• Have paid back any debt — of either yourself or your family — or arranged to pay back any debt to the Australian government.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply Online?

The ETA is free, but there is an online application service charge of 20 Australian dollars (about $14) per applicant. As US passport holders -- along with seven other nationalities -- must apply online, there's no escaping the online application service charge. The fees for my recent ETA applications coded as "Bills and Utilities" on my Chase Sapphire Reserve statement, so don't expect the fee to code as "Travel."

How Long Does It Take?

The Australian government says "processing time for this visa is not available" and that the visa may take longer to process if:

• You don't fill it out correctly
• It takes the Australian government additional time to verify your information

Most ETA applications are approved immediately, and those that need additional processing are usually handled within 24 hours. This being said, the Australian government recommends travelers get an approved ETA before booking any nonrefundable travel. Once an ETA is granted, it is valid for one year and allows multiple entries up to three months each.

How Do I Apply?

The online ETA application takes about five minutes to complete. To start an application, click "Apply for an ETA."

Step 1 : Select whether you need a Tourist ETA or a Business Visitor ETA, and certify that you are currently located outside Australia.

Step 2 : Enter your personal details, whether you have an alias, answer a question about your criminal record and enter your passport information.

Step 3 : Enter your address, phone number and email. Select whether you wish to receive communications by SMS and declare whether you hold any passports issued by other countries.

Step 4 : Confirm your information.

Step 5 : Pay the online service charge of 20 Australian dollars (about $14) using a credit card.

How Do I Check My Status?

Once you have submitted an online ETA application, you'll receive a response. The response may:

• Notify you that your ETA has been granted.
• Advise you that your application has been referred for further assessment. You can then check the status of your application after 12 hours by logging back into the ETA system and selecting the option "Check an ETA."
• Advise you to contact the nearest Australian visa office to make a new application.

My response came immediately in an email titled, "ETA Application for Australia [CLIENT-IN-CONFIDENCE] (PROD)" that confirmed my application had "been successful," my payment had been received, that I was now the proud holder of a "valid ETA for Australia" and that my ETA had been linked to my passport, so no additional documents would be required during the travel process.

What Do I Need to Print Before Travel?

Nothing. When your ETA is linked to your passport, it becomes available to both airline representatives as well as Australian immigration authorities. So, there's no need to print your confirmation once your ETA has been granted.

Other Questions

If you have other questions about ETAs, or other types of Australian visas, take a look at the Australian government's Visa Finder website . Questions such as how to combine multiple visa types if the purpose of your trip changes and what to do if you get a new passport are covered on the website.

Traveling to Australia soon? Here are some TPG articles that might be helpful:

• The Best Ways to Use Points and Miles to Fly from the US to Australia
• TPG Readers Reveal Their Favorite Points Hotels in Australia
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• 8 Australian Islands You Probably Haven't Heard of But Need to Visit

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Australian visa changes for 2023-24

From 1 july 2023, several visa changes and opportunities will come into effect. here's what you need to know..

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Australian government quietly suspends new working holiday visa applications for Chinese nationals

Nathan Que quit his job in China and waited 10 months for a chance to come to Australia for a once-in-a-lifetime working holiday.

But now he feels "cheated" by the government, along with tens of thousands of other working holiday seekers from China.

Mr Que said many of them had been pondering the same question — "is China being targeted?"

For many young people around the world, a working holiday visa is seen as a precious chance to experience life in Australia.

In 2015, the program opened to 5,000 Chinese applicants annually under a free trade agreement between Australia and China.

The agreement said the program aimed to "increase demand for tourism services and support the development of Australia's tourism sector, particularly in rural Australia".

The demand to come to Australia is there, but according to applicants the chance to obtain a working holiday visa has all but evaporated.

No announcement about visa suspension

According to information on the Department of Home Affairs website, when a country's quota of working holiday visas was close to full, it would be "suspended" and visa applications from its citizens would no longer be taken.

Five countries on the list eligible for the visa have been tagged as suspended: Brazil, China, Switzerland, Thailand and Turkey. 

A footnote on China's "suspended" tag in the Home Affairs documents said the suspension was linked to "a high volume of interest".

Out of the suspended countries, only China's annual cap of 5,000 visas is far from being filled.

Altogether, only 406 working holiday visas for new applicants in China have been issued in this financial year, according to Department of Home Affairs records.

It is unclear why applications from China have been suspended when the cap hasn't been hit.

The ABC has sought an explanation from the government.

"There were a couple of countries on the list, but it only stopped [processing] for Chinese applicants. I don't know why," Mr Que said.

"There was no announcement, no communication."

Mr Que said he had wanted to come to Australia for a working holiday after his friend spent a year in Darwin in 2016.

"He told me I would be seeing a different world … and I would be able to meet a lot of people from different parts of the world," Mr Que said.

Angry applicants left in the dark

Lily Li, who's also in China, has been longing for a working holiday in Australia.

She had been waiting for her visa pre-application to be processed.

But last week her application — along with tens of thousands of others according to Chinese media reports — was marked as "expired", she said.

That has left her furious and disappointed, but she is also unsure about what she can do.

For China and other countries where people queue up for a working holiday visa, a pre-application is required.

The next step is meant to be random selection until the quota is met.

Ms Li received a message last year from the Department of Home Affairs, which has been seen by the ABC, saying she would be included in the "next random selection round" and her registration would expire on April 30, 2024.

"Even until the last days before the expiry, people were waiting for miracles," Ms Li said.

The "random selection", however, never happened.

"We'd all been waiting," Ms Li said.

"I mean, if you are not planning to select [applicants], why open the visa?"

She wasn't alone in her anger.

Hundreds of young people have left angry messages on the Australian embassy's official account on Chinese social media Weibo, asking for an explanation.

"You are a liar," read one of the messages.

"Straightforward response is the way to solve problems," another comment said.

People have continued to message the embassy over Weibo asking for answers.

The visa application issues come after the government tried to drum up interest in tourism even further with a $125 million Come and Say G'day campaign launched in late June last year.

It was seen millions of times on Chinese social media.

The Department of Home Affairs has been contacted for comment.

Additional reporting by  Natasya Salim .

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‘It’s very unfair’: Australia’s visa crackdown is disrupting international students and hitting university finances

Student applications and net arrivals fall as refusal rates reach a record high. The situation is set to worsen if visa fees are hiked in the upcoming budget

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It took Rajesh more than 12 months to receive his visa to study in Australia.

But Rajesh – not his real name – considers himself lucky. Two of his friends who also come from India have recently had their PhD offers expire after waiting for visas for more than 10 months.

“It’s frustrating … especially considering PhD students are crucially important,” says Rajesh, who comes from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, considered a red flag by universities trying to weed out non-genuine applicants. “They are fully funded and highly skilled individuals who contribute significantly to our academic community.”

As part of a bid to halve net migration by 2025 , the Australian government is cracking down on non-genuine students who use student visas as a back door for work and permanent residency. The federal government has announced a series of reforms, including tougher visa conditions, stronger English-language tests and rules for education agents who bring overseas students to Australia.

The latest home affairs data shows the proportion of offshore student visa applications being refused has reached a record high, with as many as one in five students having their visas rejected in the year to March. Visas granted to Indian students fell by 48% between December 2022 and December 2023, with Nepalese visas granted falling 53% and Pakistani visas falling 55% over the same period.

The department cites an increase in incomplete applications and fraudulent documentation, contributing to both higher visa refusal rates and longer processing times. The tougher visa conditions have prompted institutions to change their policies, with some even imposing blanket bans on Indian students.

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The home affairs minister, Clare O’Neil, says the federal government recognises “change is hard” but migration is “too high” and must be brought back to “sustainable levels”.

“We are working with the sector to help providers adapt, but we must restore integrity to the system to protect the sector’s international reputation,” she says.

But some say the approach is having a financial impact on institutions and disrupting the plans of genuine students who may be turned off studying in Australia altogether.

What’s going on?

The founder and president of the Pakistani Students Association of Australia, Zeeshan Malik, says many offshore students are experiencing visa refusals , while others are scared to travel back home lest their visas be cancelled on return to Australia.

While there have not been any reported cases of students having their visas cancelled on return, Malik says students feel they are being discriminated against based upon their country of origin.

“It’s very unfair,” he says. “Lots of students are struggling with mental health and other issues because of these confusing policies.”

A University of Sydney spokesperson says a “significant number” of students have been forced to defer or withdraw their applications due to visa processing delays, while others have been suspended to fulfil additional requirements.

“This has been very disruptive to highly capable young people from around the world who had paid their visa application fee and chosen to come to Australia for their studies,” the spokesperson says.

“We have moved our last date to apply for semester 2 to try to limit any such impact for future students.”

The University of Melbourne has also “faced challenges” this semester, with a number of students yet to receive their visas for the 2024 intake. A spokesperson says it has provided an extension to allow enrolled international students to start later.

Central Queensland University has gone even further, writing to education agents confirming it will no longer offer English language programs to students from India or Nepal, or enrolments to applicants over 25 or married, except for research placements.

“With many universities witnessing an increase in student visa refusals, it has been necessary for CQUniversity to proactively reconsider admissions requirements on a regular basis,” a spokesperson says.

“We have a moral obligation to ensure that prospective students have the best opportunity to successfully obtain a student visa.

“Such an outcome is not good for the student, the university, or the reputation of Australia as a global study destination.”

Why universities are imposing blanket bans

Phil Honeywood, the chief executive of the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA), says stigmatising entire nations is a “blunt instrument” that ignores the benefits of diversity.

“We’re supposed to be a welcoming, safe nation,” he says. “It’s a shame sometimes blunt policy instruments go against other government policies.”

Honeywood says universities are imposing restrictive measures on international students in the hope it will improve their risk ratings, which are used by the federal government to reduce student numbers.

The system assesses universities based upon how likely they are to recruit non-genuine students who arrive in Australia primarily to work, not study. Visas are given a risk rating between 1 and 3, and only low-risk universities on level 1 have visa applications processed quickly.

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Earlier this month, the list was updated, with nine universities downgraded to a level 2 and two downgraded to a level 3.

According to Honeywood, less than 10% of international student visas are waiting to be approved at low-risk universities while universities at level 2 and 3 are facing extensive delays.

During a webinar hosted by the IEAA at the beginning of the university year, Charles Sturt University’s pro-chancellor, international, Mike Ferguson, said 40% of international students enrolled in his university – which is a level 2 – were still waiting on visa decisions in the first week of the semester.

“Speaking to my colleagues at other universities, I know many others are in similar situations,” he says.

“You’re looking at refusal rates for offshore students in most markets in the region of 50%.”

Level 3 institution Federation University has faced significant budget pressure since the migration crackdown. It recently announced plans to cut 200 ongoing positions – the equivalent of just over one in 10 staff members.

A spokesperson for the university said the announcement came in response to a 49% decline in international student numbers between 2019 and 2023, which had been exacerbated by “unexpected but necessary changes to international student visa arrangements”.

Similarly, the University of Tasmania – also at level 3 – announced last month it would sell two of its Hobart hotels intended to house international students in anticipation of declining numbers.

Private institutions have also been hit hard. According to English Australia, the national peak body for more than 100 English language colleges for international students, visa grants plummeted by 68% in December 2023 compared with the previous year.

What the future holds

The share of international students is likely to decrease further with an anticipated hike in student visa fees in the May budget, making Australia “well and truly” the most expensive country to apply for a non-refundable visa, according to Honeywood.

Honeywood says international students are facing a “blame game” as the only migration market to Australia that can feasibly be reduced.

The former immigration department deputy secretary Abul Rizvi agrees. He says while higher visa fees are likely, it will be “poor long-term policy”.

“It will mostly deter high-performing students who have options of going elsewhere,” he says. “Policy must be designed to encourage and reward providers to compete for the best students not just those who can apparently afford to pay.”

Rizvi says the cautious approach being taken by providers, coupled with the ramping up of refusal rates for offshore student applications, led to a big fall in student visa applications in February and a fall in net student arrivals in March.

“That trend will likely continue over the next few months,” he says. “But while the flow of students is slowing, the stock is still rising and is now well over a record 700,000,” he says, referring to the number of international students in Australia.

“The industry is built on continuous growth. Under the risk rating system, lower tier providers are particularly vulnerable. They are the ones complaining the most.”

To Rajesh, the decline in quality lies squarely with universities and the government.

“Students are not responsible for that,” he says. “Blaming everything on students and their respective countries is not solving the problem.”

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Australia Quietly Suspends Working Holiday Visas for Chinese Nationals

The australian government suspends working holiday visa applications for chinese nationals, affecting individuals like nathan que waiting to come to australia..

Key Takeaways:

• Australia halted new working holiday visa applications for Chinese nationals, surprising many and causing frustration among hopeful applicants.

Only 406 out of 5,000 possible visas were issued this year, with unclear reasons for the suspension.

The suspension affected five countries; Chinese applicants, in particular, remain without clear explanations, causing significant disappointment and confusion.

Why Did Australia Suspend Working Holiday Visas for Chinese Nationals?

In a surprising move, the Australian government temporarily halted new working holiday visa applications for Chinese nationals. This decision came as a shock to many young people in China who were eagerly awaiting a chance to experience life in Australia.

Nathan Que is one such individual. He left his job in China and waited ten months for the opportunity to embark on a working holiday in Australia. But now, along with tens of thousands of other Chinese nationals, he feels deceived by the sudden visa suspension.

“For many young people worldwide, a working holiday visa is a precious chance to experience life in Australia,” Mr. Que stated.

How Many Visas Were Issued This Year?

The Australian government’s working holiday visa program has been highly sought after by Chinese nationals since its inception in 2015. The agreement, part of a free trade deal between Australia and China, initially provided for 5,000 visas annually to Chinese applicants.

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However, according to the Department of Home Affairs, only 406 working holiday visas have been issued to new applicants from China in this financial year, far from reaching the annual cap. Despite the demand, the chance to obtain a working holiday visa has significantly dwindled.

Why No Formal Announcement?

Per the Department of Home Affairs’ policy, if a country’s visa quota is close to full, it will be “suspended,” halting new applications from its citizens. Currently, five countries—Brazil, China, Switzerland, Thailand, and Turkey—are tagged as suspended.

Interestingly, an asterisk next to China’s suspended status notes that the suspension is due to “a high volume of interest.” But if only 406 visas were issued out of a possible 5,000, why is the program suspended?

“There were a couple of countries on the list, but it only stopped [processing] for Chinese applicants. I don’t know why,” Mr. Que said. “There was no announcement, no communication.”

Experiences of Disappointed Aspirants

Lily Li, another Chinese national, has dreamt of a working holiday in Australia for years. She had been waiting for her visa pre-application to be processed, but like Nathan, her hopes were dashed. Her application was marked “expired” without any forewarning.

“I felt furious and disappointed but am also unsure about what I can do,” Lily said.

Chances for a working holiday visa for Chinese nationals are slim without transparency from the government. Many young people have left angry messages on the Australian embassy’s official Weibo account, pleading for an explanation.

“You are a liar,” read one message. Another user commented, “Straightforward response is the way to solve problems.”

What Led to Such High Demand?

A $125 million “Come and Say G’day” tourism campaign was launched in late June last year. The campaign, seen millions of times on Chinese social media, aimed to boost interest in Australia as a travel destination. It appears to have contributed to the heightened demand for working holiday visas among Chinese nationals.

Yet, the very campaign meant to attract visitors might have inadvertently created confusion and frustration among would-be applicants.

Is There Any Recourse for Applicants?

Unfortunately for people like Nathan Que and Lily Li, there are few options available. The Department of Home Affairs has not provided a clear explanation for the unexplained suspension when the annual visa cap has not been reached. This lack of clarity leaves many in limbo.

For those seeking more information or updates on visa applications, it would be useful to continue checking the Department of Home Affairs website for any new announcements or changes in policy. Visit the Department of Home Affairs

When Will the Suspension End?

As of now, there is no clear indication of when Australia will resume processing new working holiday visa applications for Chinese nationals. The uncertain future only adds to the frustration and disappointment felt by many.

“This situation needs to be resolved quickly,” Nathan said. “People deserve clearer communication.”

How Are Other Countries Affected by the Suspension?

Besides China, the suspension affects applicants from Brazil, Switzerland, Thailand, and Turkey, all of whom have similar questions about their eligibility and future travel plans. Unlike China, these countries reportedly hit their annual caps, justifying their suspended status.

For Chinese nationals, explanations remain elusive, particularly since the quota is nowhere near full. This inconsistency deepens the mistrust and disappointment among aspirants.

Planning Future Applications

For those still interested in working holiday visas, persistence might be the only course of action for now. Continual monitoring of official updates is crucial. Also, considering alternative destinations or postponing plans may be necessary until more clarity is provided.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead

The suspension of new working holiday visa applications for Chinese nationals has created a wave of frustration and disappointment among young people in China. With little information available and many questions unanswered, aspirants like Nathan Que and Lily Li feel left in the dark.

“I wanted to experience a different world and meet people from various parts of the globe,” Nathan reiterated. “I hope the government can give us a clear answer soon.”

Visiting the official Department of Home Affairs website regularly could provide any new updates or changes from the Australian government on this matter. For now, patience and vigilance remain vital for those affected by this sudden visa suspension.

Learn Today:

Glossary of immigration terminology:.

• Definition: A type of visa that allows young individuals usually between the ages of 18 to 30 or 35 to work and travel in a foreign country for an extended period, typically up to a year.
• Context: In this case, Chinese nationals were disappointed by the temporary suspension of new applications for Working Holiday Visas in Australia, impacting their ability to experience life in the country.
• Definition: The maximum number of visas that a country is willing to issue to foreign nationals within a specific time frame, often annually.
• Context: The visa quota for Chinese nationals applying for Working Holiday Visas in Australia was unexpectedly suspended despite not reaching the predetermined annual cap.
• Definition: The government department responsible for immigration, border control, national security, and law enforcement matters in Australia.
• Context: The Department of Home Affairs in Australia oversees visa applications and policy decisions, including the suspension of Working Holiday Visa applications for Chinese nationals.
• Definition: The official diplomatic representation of one country in another country, often providing consular services, including visa processing and assistance to its citizens.
• Context: Angry messages left on the Australian embassy’s Weibo account by disappointed Chinese nationals reflect frustration over the lack of transparency regarding visa suspensions.
• Definition: A pact between countries aimed at promoting trade and economic cooperation by reducing barriers such as tariffs and quotas.
• Context: The Working Holiday Visa program for Chinese nationals in Australia was initially established as part of a free trade deal between Australia and China in 2015.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Australia suspended working holiday visas for Chinese nationals, perplexing many applicants. Despite demand, only 406 visas were issued this year, far from the 5,000 cap. The government has not clarified the abrupt suspension, leaving applicants like Nathan and Lily frustrated. Future updates can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website. — By VisaVerge.com

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