can a tourist visa be extended in australia

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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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Australia’s Visitor Visa: What You Need To Know Before Applying For an Extension or Travel Ban Exemption During Covid-19 Pandemic

With Australia’s visitor visa, one can visit the country as a tourist, to see loved ones, or for purposes other than business or medical treatment. One can lodge the application either onshore or offshore, whichever is convenient for you. Usually, this is a temporary visa, and applicants are allowed to stay in Australia for not more than 12 months. 

However, due to the pandemic, there are several changes concerning this visa. Owing to the travel restrictions driven by the Covid-19 pandemic, offshore visitor visa grants are quite minimal. Visits to Australia are limited, and one has to meet certain health requirements before they’re allowed into the country. 

While the Department of Home Affairs is still granting visitor visas, this visa category is quite rare at this time and only those with an exemption from the travel ban can be allowed into the country. The situation is set to remain unchanged until we subdue the pandemic.

Here’s what you need to know about Australia’s visitor visa under current circumstances:

• Only under special circumstances is one allowed into the country on a visitor visa.
• If you’re intending to travel to Australia, you must have an exemption from Australia’s travel ban.
• One isn’t allowed to extend a visitor visa under Australian migration law.
• In case your visa has a further stay condition, you need a waiver. 

Can Your Parents Visit for a Short Time?

Initially, before the pandemic, you could have your parents or grandparents visit and stay with you in Australia for some time. However, due to the travel restrictions fueled by the Covid-19 pandemic, anyone who’s not an Australian citizen or a permanent resident isn’t allowed in the country. If they have to travel to the country, they must get a travel ban exemption from the Australian Border Force, though it’s still close to impossible to get one. 

The Department of Home Affairs assesses the exemptions individually. For one to qualify for a travel ban exemption, they should meet the visitor visa criteria and give a genuine reason for their travel to Australia. Even then, it’s still not clear how the Department assesses the exemptions. 

What Are the Exemption Categories for a Visitor Visa?

According to the Department of Home Affairs, one is automatically exempted from the Covid-19 travel restrictions without the need for individual exemption if they’re:

• A citizen of Australia
• A permanent resident of Australia
• An immediate family member of an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• A New Zealand citizen who usually resides in Australia with their immediate family members
• A diplomat accredited to Australia with visa subclass 995
• A traveler passing through Australia for less than 72 hours
• Airline crew
• Recruited under the Government approved Seasonal Worker Program or Pacific Labour Scheme
• Maritime crew, marine pilots included

For each of these categories, one has to provide solid proof to qualify for the exemption. The Department may also ask for additional evidence where necessary.

Individual Exemptions

An applicant may be granted an individual exemption by the Australian Border Force if they’re:

• Offering critical or specialist medical services such as medical evacuations, air ambulance, or delivering critical medical supplies.
• Non-Australian citizen working in a critical sector or possess critical skills.
• Non-citizen invited by the Australian government, state, or territory for purposes of responding to the pandemic.
• Non-Australian citizen who’s been sponsored by the employer to fill an occupation on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List.
• Non-citizen who’s travel into the country is of national interest, approved by the Australian government, territory, or state government.
• Military personnel
• Travelling for genuine and compelling reasons

Applicants are required to apply for an exemption online and provide sufficient evidence to support their claims. Your request may be finalized without consideration in case the Department finds the evidence provided inadequate. Lastly, you’re required to translate all the supporting documents to English before submitting your application. 

What You Should Know if You’re Seeking Visa Extension

At the time Covid-19 was declared a global pandemic, some people had traveled to Australia on a visitor visa. However, due to the travel restrictions, they weren’t able to travel back to their countries for some time. 

In order to remain in the country, many such individuals were required to apply for a new visitor visa at short notice.   Even so, since borders are beginning to open up, visitor visa holders now have two options: they can either travel back to their respective countries or extend their stay by applying for another visitor visa. This is a separate application for a completely new visa meaning the conditions from your previous visa will not apply to the new visitor visa. This comes with a new validity period and expiry date. 

Temporary visa holders are required to apply for a new visa before the current one expires to extend their stay in Australia. The Department of Home Affairs will grant applicants a bridging visa that would allow them to remain in the country until a decision is made on the new application. This will only come into effect upon the expiry of your current visa and carries across the same conditions. 

It’s essential to note that there are special requirements for this visa, and you should check them before lodging an application. In the case of a “No Further Stay” condition, you must request a waiver before applying for a new visa to extend your stay. 

Eligibility Criteria for an Australian Visitor Visa 

One can only apply for this visa if you meet the following requirements:

• The current visa hasn’t expired
• There are no conditions of the visa that would prevent them from extending their stay, mainly the no further stay condition 8503.
• The total period of stay in Australia doesn’t exceed 12 consectuive months unless exceptional circumstances apply

Generally, that’s all you need to know about a visitor visa. If you’re intending to travel to Australia, you may want to postpone your journey until the pandemic subsides and the travel restrictions lifted. 

If you would like to obtain more information regarding Australian visa or require any sort of immigration assitance, No Border Migration is at your service. Our friendly registered migration agents or immigration lawyers can discuss the best visa options for you. Please contact us on 1300 066 267 / 07 3876 4000 or email to [email protected] .

Book a free consultation today and let us help you find a way forward.

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The Process of Extending Your Australian Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

• June 23, 2023 June 22, 2023

Australia is a sought-after destination for travelers and international students alike, and it’s no surprise that many opt to prolong their stay beyond their original visa period. If you’re currently in Australia on a temporary visa and looking to extend your stay, you may be eligible to apply for an extension. Although the visa extension process can seem daunting and confusing, fret not – this step-by-step guide will assist you in understanding the process and increase your likelihood of success.

Table of Contents

Eligibility for Visa Extension

If you’re keen to extend your stay in the land Down Under, there are a few boxes you’ll need to tick to be eligible for an Australian visa extension. Firstly, you must have a valid passport and visa. It’s also crucial that you’ve followed all the conditions of your current visa and don’t owe the Australian government any outstanding debts. Additionally, you’ll need to pass the health and character requirements outlined by the Department of Home Affairs. Lastly, you’ll need to show that you have enough funds to support yourself throughout your extended stay in Australia.

Requirements for extending different types of visas

If you’re looking to extend your Australian visa, it’s important to be aware of the specific requirements that apply to your visa type. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements for extending different types of visas:

• Visitor Visa: To extend your visitor visa, you’ll need to be in Australia, hold a valid passport, have sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay, and meet the health and character requirements.
• Student Visa: To extend your student visa, you must be enrolled in a full-time course, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and have valid health insurance coverage.
• Work Visa: To extend your work visa, you must still be employed by the same sponsor who sponsored your initial visa, meet the eligibility criteria for the visa type you’re applying for, and hold valid health insurance.
• Partner Visa: To extend your partner visa, you must still be in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your partner, meet the eligibility criteria for the visa type you’re applying for, and provide evidence of your relationship.

Skilled Visa: To extend your skilled visa, you must still meet the eligibility criteria for the visa type you’re applying for, and hold valid health insurance coverage.

How to check visa eligibility

If you’re thinking about extending your Australian visa, the first step is to determine if you’re eligible. The Australian Department of Home Affairs website is an excellent resource for checking your eligibility. Here you can find detailed information about the different visa types and their eligibility criteria. Remember to check the expiry date of your current visa, as it’s crucial to apply for an extension before it expires. If you have any questions or doubts regarding your eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact the Department of Home Affairs or seek the guidance of a registered migration agent. It’s essential to ensure that you meet all the requirements before starting the application process to increase your chances of success.

Applying for a Visa Extension

If you have confirmed your eligibility to extend your Australian visa, the next step is to apply for the extension, and the process may vary depending on the type of visa you hold. In general, you can apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website or by submitting a paper application. The application will ask for your personal details, visa information, and the reason for your extended stay in Australia. You may also need to submit additional documents to support your application, such as proof of financial support, health insurance, or a letter from your employer or educational institution. It is essential to thoroughly review the visa extension requirements and ensure that you provide all the necessary information and documentation to avoid any potential delays or rejections of your application.

Steps to apply for a visa extension

Here are the steps to apply for a visa extension in Australia, as easy as 1, 2, 3 (or 6!):

• Check your eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa you wish to extend by checking the Department of Home Affairs website.
• Gather necessary documents: Gather all the necessary documents required for your visa extension application. The list of documents may include your passport, current visa details, health insurance, financial documents, and other relevant documents.
• Lodge an application: Lodge your visa extension application online or by mail through the Department of Home Affairs website. Provide all the necessary details and attach all the required documents.
• Pay the visa application fee: The visa extension application fee may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Pay the fee online while submitting your application.
• Attend a biometrics appointment: You may be required to attend a biometrics appointment at a designated center to provide your fingerprints and photograph. This information is used for identity verification purposes.
• Wait for a decision: Once you have lodged your visa extension application, wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs. The processing time may vary depending on the type of visa you have applied for.

If your visa extension application is approved, you will receive your new visa with updated details. If your application is refused, you may be given the opportunity to appeal the decision.

Required documents

When it comes to extending your visa in Australia, making sure you have all the necessary documents is key to a successful application. However, the documents required can vary depending on factors such as your visa type, reason for extension, and more. Here are some common documents you may need to provide:

• Valid Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining is a must-have when applying for a visa extension.
• Current Visa: You’ll need to provide details about your current visa, including the grant number and expiry date.
• Visa Application Form: Completing and submitting the appropriate visa extension application form is crucial.
• Proof of Funds: To prove you can support yourself during your extended stay in Australia, you’ll need to provide evidence of sufficient funds. This could include bank statements, payslips, or a letter from your employer.
• Health Insurance: Depending on your visa type, you may need to provide evidence of adequate health insurance coverage.
• English Language Proficiency: Students applying for a visa extension may need to prove their English language proficiency.
• Evidence of Enrollment: For student visa extensions, you’ll need to provide evidence that you’re enrolled in a registered course of study.
• Other Documents: Depending on your visa type and reason for extension, additional documents may be required, such as a police clearance certificate, medical certificate, or proof of your relationship if you’re applying for a partner visa extension.

Be sure to check the Department of Home Affairs website for specific requirements for your visa extension application. Providing all the necessary documents will increase your chances of a successful outcome.

How to lodge the application

When it comes to applying for a visa extension in Australia, you have a few options for lodging your application, and it’s essential to ensure that you submit your application before your current visa expires to avoid any complications. Here are the methods you can use to lodge your visa extension application:

Online: The Department of Home Affairs offers an online platform known as the ImmiAccount portal, which allows you to submit your visa extension application and supporting documents electronically. Once you create an account, you can submit the application online.

By post: Another way to apply for a visa extension is by mailing the application and supporting documents to the nearest office of the Department of Home Affairs.

In-person: If you’re already in Australia, you can visit one of the Department of Home Affairs offices and lodge your visa extension application in person.

Keep in mind that the processing time for visa extension applications can vary, so it’s recommended to apply at least three months before your current visa expires. That way, you can avoid being in the country unlawfully.

Visa Extension Processing Time

When it comes to extending your visa in Australia, the processing time for your application can vary depending on different factors such as your visa type and specific circumstances. It could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for the Department of Home Affairs to process your visa extension application. Therefore, it is always a good idea to apply well before the expiration date of your current visa, as this will allow for any possible processing delays.

To ensure a smooth and timely processing of your visa extension application, it’s crucial to provide all the necessary documents and information. Submitting an incomplete application or missing documents can result in further delays or even rejection of your application. So, make sure you have everything in order before submitting your application to avoid any unnecessary setbacks.

Factors that affect processing time

When it comes to the processing time for visa extension applications in Australia, there are several factors that can impact it. These factors are crucial to consider as they can have a significant effect on the duration of your application.

The first factor is the type of visa you hold. Depending on the visa, processing times can vary. Some visas have a quicker processing time than others.

Another factor is the completeness of your application. Submitting an incomplete application or one that has errors can delay the processing time. This is because the authorities may need to ask for more information or clarification, which can add to the overall time taken.

Peak periods can also impact processing times. During high-demand periods, such as holiday seasons, the processing times can be longer due to the increased volume of applications.

The assessment level of your application can also impact processing times. Some visa applications require a higher level of assessment than others. Applications that require more extensive checks and verifications may take longer to process.

Finally, the processing time may vary based on the applicant’s nationality. It’s essential to note that processing times can vary and there is no guarantee of a specific timeframe. It’s always advisable to apply for a visa extension as early as possible to avoid any issues that may arise due to processing delays.

Visa Extension Outcome

Once a visa extension application has been submitted, the Department of Home Affairs will carefully assess the application to determine whether it should be approved or rejected. If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a new visa with an extended validity period. However, if the application is rejected, the applicant will be informed of the reason for the rejection and may have the option to apply for a review of the decision.

It’s important to keep in mind that a visa extension does not necessarily mean that the conditions of the visa will be changed. If an applicant wants to change the conditions of their visa, such as switching from a student visa to a work visa, they will need to apply for a new visa rather than simply extending their current visa.

What to do if the application is refused

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation where your visa extension application is denied, don’t fret! There are a few options available to you, depending on your specific circumstances.

One option is to apply for a review of the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), assuming you are currently in Australia. This process involves an independent body reviewing the Department of Home Affairs’ decision to determine whether it was legal and whether it should be changed.

Another option is to see if you’re eligible for a different type of visa, such as a temporary or permanent visa. However, keep in mind that this may require leaving Australia and reapplying from your home country.

If all else fails and you’re unable to secure a visa, you must leave Australia before your current visa expires to avoid any penalties associated with overstaying your visa. To better understand your options and legal obligations, it’s always a good idea to seek the advice of a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer.

Visa Extension Cost

When it comes to extending your visa in Australia, there are a few things to keep in mind. One of the most important considerations is the cost. Depending on the type of visa you have and the length of time you want to extend it, the cost of your visa extension will vary. Additionally, you may need to pay extra fees for certain services or documents required for the application process.

For example, extending a student visa for six months currently costs AUD $620, while extending a visitor visa for three months costs AUD $345. If you’re looking to extend a working holiday visa for another year, it will set you back AUD $485.

It’s important to note that in addition to the visa extension fee, you may also need to pay for additional services like health examinations, police checks, and other required documents. To avoid any surprises, be sure to carefully review the visa extension application requirements to ensure you have everything you need and are aware of any additional costs.

Fees for extending different types of visas

Extending your stay in Australia can definitely put a dent in your wallet, as visa extension fees can vary depending on the type of visa you currently hold. To give you an idea of what to expect, let’s take a closer look at the fees for extending different types of visas:

• Visitor Visa: For a visitor visa, the cost of extending your stay starts at AUD 345. Keep in mind that the exact fee may differ based on factors such as the length of your extension and the specific visa subclass you’re applying for.
• Student Visa: If you’re on a student visa, the fee for extending your stay starts at AUD 620. However, this amount may vary based on factors such as the length of your extension, the type of course you’re enrolled in, and whether you have any dependents.
• Work Visa: Extending a work visa comes with a fee starting at AUD 700. That being said, the exact amount may differ depending on factors such as the length of your extension, the specific visa subclass you’re applying for, and whether or not you have any dependents.
• Skilled Migration Visa: For those on a skilled migration visa, extending your stay will cost you a minimum of AUD 360. However, this fee may vary depending on factors such as the length of your extension and the specific visa subclass you’re applying for.

It’s important to remember that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest fee schedule on the Department of Home Affairs website before submitting your application. Additionally, keep in mind that there may be additional costs associated with the visa extension process, such as health assessments or biometrics, that may increase the overall cost.

Additional costs to consider

When it comes to extending your visa, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be additional costs beyond just the visa extension fee. Here are some of the costs to consider:

Health insurance: Depending on your visa type and length of stay, you may be required to have health insurance, which can be an additional expense to factor in.

Travel expenses: If you need to leave the country to obtain a new visa or attend a visa interview, you’ll need to budget for travel expenses, including airfare, accommodations, and meals.

Legal fees: If you opt to work with an immigration lawyer to assist with your visa extension application, there will be legal fees to take into account.

Living expenses: If your visa extension application takes longer than anticipated to process, you’ll need to budget for living expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation.

Visa application center fees: Depending on your location, there may be additional fees for using a visa application center or for expedited processing.

It’s essential to consider all of these expenses when planning to extend your visa to ensure you have enough funds to cover them. Keep in mind that costs may vary depending on your visa type, location, and individual circumstances. It’s a good idea to research and plan accordingly to avoid any unexpected expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is eligible to apply for a visa extension in Australia?
• Anyone who is currently in Australia on a valid visa may be eligible to apply for an extension.
• How far in advance can I apply for a visa extension?
• It is recommended to apply for a visa extension at least two to three months before your current visa expires.
• Can I work while my visa extension is being processed?
• If you have a valid visa with work rights, you can continue to work while your visa extension application is being processed.
• Can I leave and re-enter Australia while my visa extension application is being processed?
• Yes, you can leave and re-enter Australia while your visa extension application is being processed, as long as your current visa allows multiple entries.
• Can I apply for a visa extension more than once?
• Yes, in most cases you can apply for a visa extension more than once, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and requirements for the visa type.
• What if my visa extension application is refused?
• You may have the option to apply for a review of the decision or to submit a new application with additional information or documents.
• How do I know the current fees for extending my visa?
• You can check the current fees for extending your visa on the Department of Home Affairs website or by contacting an immigration agent or lawyer.

To sum up, extending your Australian visa can be a relatively simple process, provided you fulfill the eligibility criteria, provide all the required documents, and follow the application process diligently. It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the varying requirements and fees associated with extending different types of visas to avoid any unnecessary delays or expenses. If your application is denied, there are options for review or re-application. By following the guidelines provided in this article and seeking expert guidance whenever required, you can extend your visa smoothly and continue your stay in Australia without any hassle.

Australia Tourist Visa - How to Extend Visitor Permit in Australia?

Are you in Australia, and your current visa is about to expire? But do you wish to extend your stay for tourism purposes? You may apply for a new Visitor visa (subclass 600) as you cannot extend this visa. If you are eligible to apply for Australia Tourist Visa , you must do so a minimum of two weeks before your current visa expiry date.

Please note, an Australia Tourist visa (subclass 600) will be granted to you, if:

• You were found to be substantially abiding by your previous visa conditions
• You meet key eligibility criteria for visa subclass 600
• You do not have a 'No further stay' Condition 8503 applicable on your visa

Suppose you are a visitor visa or a Working Holiday visa holder. You can extend your stay for up to 12 months if you fall under any exceptions.

Let's better understand about Australia Tourist Visa (Subclass) 600

Under Visitor Visa (Subclass) 600 (Tourist stream), you can visit Australia for purposes like visiting your family and friends, visiting as a tourist, for a cruise, or for a purpose other than medical treatment or business for a duration of up to 12 months.

But, to be eligible, you must have a genuine intention and must have enough money to support your entire stay in Australia.

Additionally, this visitor visa Australia also allows you to get trained or study for a maximum of 3 months in total 12 months duration this visa. But if the main reason for your travelling to Australia is to pursue a long-term study program, you must apply for an Australia student visa.

Once applied, the DHA generally processes 75% of applications within 44 days and 90% in 48 days.

But, your application processing may take longer, if:

• Your application is found to be incomplete or contains incorrect information
• You miss any supporting documents or information
• DHA is taking a longer time to verify your documents and information

Eligibility requirements to apply for Visitor Visa Australia

• You must meet Australia's health and character requirements in order to ensure that you don't impose any public health and safety risks to the Australian community
• You must have access to enough proof of funds to support yourself when you are in Australia.
• You must be a genuine visitor to live temporarily in Australia and not do things that your visa doesn't allow you to do

The stepwise process to apply for Visitor Visa

You may follow a step-by-step process to apply for a visitor or Australia tourist visa from India or any other country.

• Get your valid passport and complete your health examinations before applying
• Seek professional assistance with your application from registered migration consultants
• Gather relevant documents like:
• Identity proof
• Proof of change of name, if applicable (a marriage or divorce certificate)
• Genuine visitor documents as proof that you are visiting Australia temporarily
• Character documents
• Additional documents if you are under 18
• Apply for Visa online by creating ImmiAccount
• Submit the complete application along with documents and the application fee
• Wait till DHA processes your application
• Visa outcome stage. The DHA will inform you about the decision in writing and provide you with a visa grant number, the date from which your visa starts and all visa conditions applicable on your visa

Instead of spending your time figuring out things and still ending up with visa refusals, you may hire Australian immigration consultants who can guide you in the right direction.     

At Visas Avenue, we offer a comprehensive range of consultancy services to individuals and families aspiring to migrate to Australia. Our team of experienced visa advisors has assisted many individuals and helped them achieve their immigration goals.

If you are planning a trip to Australia and struggling with the Australia tourist visa application process, we are happy to help. You may reach us on Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or write to us at [email protected] , and one of our representatives will call you shortly.

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Visa Extension: How to Extend Your Stay in Australia

Australia is a popular hub for students, professionals and tourists. While many tourists, students, or professionals come to Australia for a certain period, they may end up wanting to stay in the country for longer. In such circumstances, you are required to extend your respective visas for a longer stay.

Extending your visa is a common way to extend your stay in Australia and continue to enjoy the country’s beautiful environment. No matter what you are travelling for, work, study, or holiday, extending your visa can provide you with ample time to explore the country’s beautiful cities, beaches, and more.

In this blog, we will discuss about who can apply for a visa extension in Australia and its process. This blog aims to help you better understand your visa extension options so you can plan your stay accordingly.

How to Extend Your Visa in Australia?

The process for extending a visa in Australia will depend on the type of visa you hold – student visa , tourist visa, work visa, more. To put it simple, you will have to meet eligibility requirements and carefully follow the process of applying for visa extension. Understand the requirements and process for your visa extension before actually applying for one.

We have help you with how you can extend your visa in Australia in the following points –

• Check your visa conditions.
• Check if a waiver request is applicable.
• Apply for a visa condition waiver.
• Check the waiver decision.
• Apply for a new visa.

Check Your Visa Conditions

After receiving an Australia visa, you will find that there are number of conditions attached to your visa type. These conditions are included in your visas to tell you what you can and cannot do while you are a holder of that visa. Look at this example; imagine yourself holding a tourist visa (subclass 600) . You cannot work and can only stay for three months. Additionally, there is a “no further stay condition” (8503) imposed on this visa i.e., you cannot apply for any other visa than protection visa. This is why it is important to know your visa conditions beforehand.

Check if a Waiver Request is Applicable

If condition 8503 applies on your visa, you have to put a request to waive the condition that limits your longer stay in the country.

Following are circumstances in which condition 8503 can be waived of:

• You cannot travel back home for any medical reasons.
• Anyone from your closed family or friend is seriously ill or has passed away.
• There is a natural disaster in your home country.
• There is a political situation in your home country like civil war or political unrest.
• Approved study course which is not provided by your preferred school i.e., student visa.

The “no further stay” condition will not be waived in the following cases:

• Failing your course (study visa)
• A committed relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident

Apply for a Visa Condition Waiver

Let us think of strong reasons due to which you are in position for a waiver for your 8503 visa condition. In such case, you will have to submit a waiver request to the Department of Foreign Affairs. Complete a waiver form online so you can apply for the waiver request. If you are unable to complete an online form, then you may download the pdf version, print it, and fill it in. The following documents will be required for both forms:

• A copy of your passport bio page.
• Evidence that you require a waiver. It can be a medical report, death certificate, university record, or alike.

Check the Waiver Decision

After submitting request for waiving the “no further stay” condition, you have to wait a while till the Department processes your request. If you get the grant to waive of, you can apply for a new visa. However, if the situation is otherwise, you cannot apply for a new visa, and if your visa expires after your waiver request denies, you will have to leave and fly back to your home country ASAP.

Apply for a New Visa

After the condition, “no further stay” is waived, you can apply for a new visa to continue staying in Australia. Applying a new visa is required after your existing visa expires because it is legally not allowed to use the expired visa for stay. So, you can apply for the same visa that you had or apply for another visa.

What is the Eligibility Criteria for Extending Australian Visa?

• Validity: Ensure that your current visa is still valid or is expired in the last 28 days to be able to apply for a visa extension.
• Genuine intention: Your intention to stay longer in the country must be genuine.
• Comply with visa conditions: Ensure that you have abide by all rules and regulations mentioned in your visa.
• Health and character: ensure you meet health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
• Sufficient funds: Ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your extended stay in the country.
• No previous visa cancellations or refusals: Ensure that you never had visa cancellation or visa refusal to be able to apply for a visa extension.

The processing times for visa extensions in Australia depends on the type of visa and the complexity of your profile. Usually, it takes about two to four weeks for the Department of Home and Affairs to process a visa extension application.

What are the Steps to Apply for Visa Extension?

• The first step is to go through the conditions of your existing visa.
• It is important to apply for an extension before your existing visa expires i.e., within 28 days.
• Gather all the necessary documents and complete paperwork for your visa extension application.
• After gathering all the necessary documents, get assistance in completing the visa extension application form.
• Pay the application fee while submitting your visa extension application.
• Wait for the decision to be made by the Department of Home and Affairs.

Visa extension is a tricky process and you must do it with the guidance and support of a professional migration agent. Asia Pacific Group has a decade over experience in this field and assures you the best immigration experience. So, if you are in need of visa extension in Australia, contact our experts today to know more about the process.

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Long stay visa to Australia (Visitor Visa) – US

Key aspects.

For US citizens traveling for tourism/business not wishing to install the ETA App on their mobile device.

Visa Duration

Single or multiple entry. Each entry can last up to 3, 6 or 12 months .

Approval time

75% of applications are processed within 20 days .

Long stay visas to Australia (also known as Visitor Visas, Subclass 600) can be requested also by US citizens who wish to take a trip to Australia for 3, 6 or 12 months for tourism, business or visiting family or friends . It is also highly used by US travelers who do not wish to download and activate the Australian ETA App.

The same goes for US travelers who are already inside Australia and wish to extend their visas . This is the reason why Australian Subclass 600 visas are often referred to as “longterm visas”, “long stay visa” or “Australian visa extension”.

Differences between ETA and long stay visa

Australian Long Stay visas (Visitor Visas, Sublcass 600) are very similar in their purpose to eVisitor and ETA visas. However, they are characterized by a series of important differences.

First of all, to apply for an ETA you must use the Australian ETA app, which means you need to have a mobile device with:

• A camera which can take your photo and your passport’s photo at a high enough resolution.
• Near-field communication (NFC) features.
• Location services features (GPS).

On the other hand, no mobile device or app is needed for a Visitor Visa.

Long stay visas processing time.

Long stay visa can take up to 20 days to get processed, and  w hile only a few countries are eligible for Australian ETA visas, the citizens of essentially any country can apply for a visitor visa.

Location when making the application for a long term visa

While applicants must be outside of Australia at the moment of their ETA application, long stay visa application can be made while inside Australia , for example with the purpose of extending the current visa .

Validity of Australian Visitor Visas

Long stay visas can be issued with single entry or multiple entries. Each entry can be valid for 3, 6 or 12 months.

Usage of Visitor Visas to extend your current visa

If your current visa does not have a “No further stay” condition, you can use an Austalian Subclass 600 visa to apply for the extension of your current visa . Notice that during the application process, you can stay inside Australia.

Conditions of Australian long stay visa

• You must not work while in Australia. Voluntary work may be permitted.
• You must not study for more than 3 months while in Australia.

Medical requirements for visitor visas

If you are applying for a visa longer than 6 months, you may be asked to undergo a chest x-ray and/or medical examination .

If you are over the age of 75 years old or coming from a country that Australian Immigration considers as having a high level of risk, you may need to provide evidence that you can meet the visa’s medical requirements.

Proof of funds for visitor visas

When applying for a long stay visa, you must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your whole stay in Australia . Immigration might ask for such proof, for example in the form of bank statements.

Australian Government official resources:

Amit Taya (Perth): +61 426 488 909   |  Harmandeep Kaur (Adelaide): +61 8 8120 4199

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How Do I Apply For A Visitor Visa 600 Extension To Stay In Australia?

Every year, thousands of people visit Australia for different purposes like tourism, business, or visiting family or friends. If you are one of them and not a citizen of New Zealand, you must obtain your Visitor Visa 600 to be eligible to enter this country. The Visa 600 is a temporary visa, and holders have to leave Australia once it expires. Though the usual validity of this visa is 3 months, business visitors can have the maximum validity of 12 months, in which they need to leave Australia after every 3 months.

However, emergencies may arise when a visitor finds it impossible to leave the country because of sudden restrictions (as happened in the case of the still-going COVID-19 pandemic). The only option left is applying for a 600 visa extension in those situations. This blog discusses all the essential details one must know regarding this extension.

Latest News: Australia Is All Set To Reopen Its Borders

What Should You Know About Visitor Visa 600 Australia?

Before discussing the extension process, some basic facts are discussed regarding the Visitor Visa 600.

• Holders of this visa are generally allowed to stay in Australia for 3 months. However, people coming for business purposes can have a maximum period of 12 months.
• There are five streams under this visa – Tourist Stream (for visiting purpose only; both offshore and onshore application options available), Sponsored Family Stream (for visitors sponsored by a family member who is an Australian PR or citizen), Business Visitor Stream (for business people), Approved Destination Stream, and Frequent Traveller Stream (the last two are for Hong Kong passport-holders).
• Like other Australian visas, you have to meet the basic eligibility criteria and fill out the application form for your Visa 600.
• If you have previously held an Australian visa, you have to show that you have complied with all its conditions.
• Other important eligibility criteria include having the adequate financial capacity to cover all the costs during your stay in Australia, holding the required health and character certifications and a health insurance coverage, valid for 12 months.
• The Australian Subclass 600 Visa is different from the other visas in terms of one key benefit. While most other visas allow applicants to include their family members in the application, the 600 Visa does not. If you want to visit this beautiful country with your loved ones, they must lodge separate applications.

Also Read: Before Lodging Visitor Visa Australia – Check Eligibility, Financial requirement, Document Checklist

How to Apply For A Visitor Visa 600 Extension?

The stay extension you require in Australia on your 600 Visa may be for a period more than what is allowed. If such a situation arises, you must apply for a Visitor Visa 600 extension or extension for any other Australia visa. If you go for the second option, you can apply for visas like:

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa Subclass 482
• Employer Nomination Scheme Subclass 186
• Student Visa Subclass 500

One thing to keep in mind is that your 600 Visa extension or another visa application will take several weeks or months to get processed. So, make sure you start planning early.

As a potential applicant, you must also remember that whether you will get your next visa will depend on your purpose for the extended stay and eligibility criteria.

You Might Like: Avoid These Rejection Reasons For Your Visitor Visa Subclass 600

Procedures for Obtaining a 600 Visa Extension

Complete the following steps to make your 600 Visa extension application.

1. Decide how long you will stay in Australia

As we have stated, international visitors can stay for up to 3 months in Australia with their visitor visa. So, first, you have to decide how long you will stay here because it will impact your visa options. If you want to stay for more than 12 months, you will be required to apply for a visa extension.

2. Check how much your current visitor visa is valid for

Once your period of stay in Australia is decided, you must now check how much time you are left with. Migration experts typically advise making the application quite early for the extension. Make sure you have at least 3 weeks in your hand.

3. Choose the most suitable visa option

This is one of the most important points to keep in mind, especially if you want to apply for a completely new visa type for the period of extension. Make sure you have made your choice based on your situation. Otherwise, you may have to regret it later.

If you do not have enough funds, it will not be a good idea to go for a visitor visa extension simply because, as per Australian Immigration laws, tourist visa holders cannot find any job for an Australian company.

On the other hand, if your partner or a parent is an Australian permanent resident or citizen, choosing a student visa or work visa will be the best option.

4. Decide on your visa according to your situation

You should make your visa extension choice according to your situation. You may qualify for multiple visa options. Compared to partner visas, work and holiday visas involve fewer restrictions.

If money is not an issue for you, you can apply for the Tourist Visa 600 extension because it will be the simplest and cheapest option.

5. Check if there is any ‘no further stay’ condition attached to your current visitor visa

This is another important check you must carry out before applying for a visa extension. From the term, you can easily understand that this condition will not let you stay in Australia any further after your visa expires. However, this condition is usually imposed on cases like:

• You coming from a country that the Australian Immigration considers as ineligible to allow a further stay.
• Record of not remaining compliant with conditions attached to any previous Australian visa.

If this condition is imposed on your visa and you want to waive it due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, you must provide a written request to the authority.

6. Gather all the necessary documents

Once you find no ‘no further stay’ condition on your Tourist Visa 600, you can now gather the necessary documents. Remember that you must submit the same documents you have provided at the time of the first application.

7. Go through a necessary medical examination

Once all the documents are gathered, you can take scanned copies of them to upload while making an online application. To make sure you have good health, you must undertake a medical check within 28 days of the application.

8. Wait for your visa outcome

As the entire procedure takes a significant period, you have to wait for some weeks to get your visa approved. If your current visa expires during this period, Australian Immigration will grant you a bridging visa.

Also Read: Visiting Australia: Know The Five Big Reasons

Cost of Visa Subclass 600 Extension in Australia

Before you start your Visitor Visa Australia extension, it is also important to understand the total cost. Currently, this fee is approximately $345, and remember that you have to pay this amount while applying for your Visa 600 application.

Get Professional Assistance From A Migration Agent Perth

The whole procedure will become smooth, and you can get the best visa outcome if you hire a registered immigration agent Perth . ISA Migrations have been providing top-notch services in this field for years. So, you may contact the representatives for any inquiry or professional assistance. They can assign you their best visa agent Perth and walk you through the process easily.

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