Visitor Visa 600 Checklist: Your Essential Guide

The Visitor Visa subclass 600 is a popular choice for those looking to travel to Australia for tourism, business, or to visit family and friends. If you're planning to apply for this visa, it's essential to ensure that you meet all the requirements and provide the correct documentation. A complete and accurate application will increase your chances of approval. This article provides a comprehensive checklist to help you navigate the process efficiently.

1. Determine Your Visa Type

Before you start the application process, you need to determine the specific type of Visitor Visa 600 that applies to your situation. The visa has different streams depending on the purpose of your visit:

• Tourist Stream: For those visiting Australia for leisure, holidays, or to explore the country.

• Business Visitor Stream: For business people who need to attend meetings, conferences, or explore business opportunities.

• Family Stream: For those visiting family members who are Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.

• Approved Destination Status Stream: Available for citizens of specific countries, particularly China, visiting Australia for tourism.

Ensure you choose the right stream, as the eligibility and required documents may vary.

2. Complete the Visa Application Form

The first step in your visa application is to complete the necessary application form. For the Visitor Visa 600, you can apply online through the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website. You will be asked to provide personal details such as:

• Full name and contact information

• Passport details

• Travel history

• Details of your planned stay in Australia

The application will also include questions about your character, health, and financial status. Be sure to answer all questions truthfully and provide accurate information to avoid delays or rejection of your visa.

3. Prepare Your Documents

One of the most important steps in the visa application process is gathering the required documents. Below is a list of the essential documents that are generally required for the Visitor Visa 600. Keep in mind that additional documents may be needed depending on the type of visa stream you're applying for.

Proof of Identity

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Australia.

• Photographs: Passport-sized photos that meet Australian visa requirements may be required, depending on your application.

Proof of Financial Capacity

To demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your stay in Australia, you’ll need to provide evidence of your financial situation. Common documents include:

• Bank statements from the last three months

• Pay slips or income statements

• Tax returns or proof of business income

• Evidence of assets, if applicable

The exact financial requirement will vary depending on the length of your stay and the type of visit, but you generally need to show that you can support yourself during your time in Australia without relying on government assistance.

Travel Plans and Itinerary

While you don’t need to book your flights before applying for the visa, providing details about your intended travel plans can strengthen your application. This may include:

• Flight reservations or flight details

• Accommodation bookings for your stay in Australia

• Planned dates for your arrival and departure

• A travel itinerary or schedule of activities

Having clear plans helps to demonstrate the temporary nature of your visit and that you will leave Australia before your visa expires.

Health and Character Documents

You may be required to undergo a health examination to ensure you don’t pose a public health risk. This will depend on factors such as your nationality, the duration of your stay, and your medical history. Medical documents may include:

• A health declaration (if required)

• Medical examinations or tests (if requested)

You must also meet certain character requirements. This may include providing a police certificate from any country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. It is important to check if this applies to you before submitting your application.

Supporting Documents Based on Your Stream

Depending on the type of Visitor Visa 600 stream you are applying for, you may need to provide additional documentation:

• Tourist Stream: Evidence of your travel plans, itinerary, and how you intend to support yourself during your stay.

• Business Visitor Stream: Documentation of your business activities, such as invitation letters, conference registrations, and evidence of your business in your home country.

• Family Stream: A letter from your family member in Australia confirming your relationship, along with evidence of their Australian status.

4. Pay the Visa Application Fee

Once you have prepared all the required documents, you will need to pay the application fee. The fee for the Visitor Visa 600 varies depending on the stream and the length of your stay. You can check the exact fee on the Department of Home Affairs website. Keep in mind that some visa applications may also incur additional costs, such as health checks or police certificates.

The payment can typically be made online when you submit your application.

5. Submit Your Application

Once your form is completed and all supporting documents are ready, you can submit your application online. After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgment receipt from the Department of Home Affairs. This receipt will contain details about your application and a reference number, which you can use to track the progress of your application.

6. Wait for Processing and Visa Decision

The processing time for the Visitor Visa 600 can vary based on various factors such as your nationality, the completeness of your application, and the volume of applications being processed at the time. On average, processing can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. During this time, the Department of Home Affairs may request additional information or documents, so it's crucial to check your email regularly.

You can track your application status online through your ImmiAccount.

7. Receive Your Visa

If your visa is approved, you will receive an electronic visa grant notice. This will outline the conditions of your visa, including the validity period and any travel restrictions. Be sure to read this notice carefully and comply with all visa conditions during your stay in Australia. If your visa is refused, you will receive a notification with the reasons for refusal, and you may be given the option to appeal the decision.

Conclusion

Applying for a Visitor Visa 600 requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By following this checklist, you can ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements and increase your chances of a successful application. Make sure to gather all the required documents, provide accurate information, and submit your application on time. If you need any assistance with the process, consider consulting our registered Migration Agent adelaide who can guide you through the application and increase your chances of obtaining your visa. Safe travels!