,

eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) – Everything You Need to Know About Short-Term Travel to Australia

eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) – Everything You Need to Know About Short-Term Travel to Australia

The eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) is a convenient and cost-effective visa option for citizens of eligible European countries who wish to visit Australia for short-term tourism or business purposes.

This visa is free of charge, allowing travellers to stay in Australia for up to three months per visit within a 12-month period. Whether you’re planning a holiday, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings, the eVisitor Visa offers a straightforward pathway to explore the beauty and opportunities of Australia.

Table of Contents

  1. 1. What is the eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)?
  2. 2. Key Features of the eVisitor Visa
  3. 3. Eligibility Criteria
  4. 4. Application Process
  5. 5. Conditions of the eVisitor Visa
  6. 6. Benefits of the eVisitor Visa
  7. 7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
  8. 8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  9. 9. Summary

1. What is the eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)?

The eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) is a short-term travel visa for individuals holding passports from eligible countries, primarily in Europe. Introduced by the Australian Government to simplify the travel process, this visa enables visitors to enter Australia for purposes such as holidays, business activities (excluding work), or family visits without the need for a lengthy application process or visa fees.

The eVisitor Visa is part of Australia’s electronic visa program, allowing eligible applicants to apply online and receive their visa approval digitally. 

2. Key Features of the eVisitor Visa

  • No Application Fee: This visa is completely free of charge.
  • Short-Term Stays: You can stay in Australia for up to three months at a time.
  • Validity Period: The visa is valid for 12 months from the date of approval.
  • Multiple Entries: The visa allows for multiple entries, meaning you can leave and re-enter Australia as long as the visa remains valid.
  • For Tourism or Business: The visa covers tourism activities, such as holidays and family visits, as well as business purposes like attending conferences or negotiating contracts (but does not permit work or paid employment).
  • Online Application: The process is entirely digital, making it quick and efficient.

3. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651), applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. Hold a Passport from an Eligible Country
    Applicants must hold a passport from one of the eligible countries. The eVisitor Visa is available to citizens of the European Union and a few additional European nations, such as Norway and Iceland. For the complete list of eligible countries, refer to the official eVisitor Visa eligibility page.
  2. Purpose of Travel
    The visa is specifically for short-term tourism or business activities, such as:
    • Holidays or family visits.
    • Attending business meetings, seminars, or trade fairs.
    Note: Paid work or study lasting more than three months is not allowed on this visa.
  3. No Criminal Convictions
    Applicants must not have any criminal convictions for which the total sentence was 12 months or more.
  4. Meet Health Requirements
    Applicants must meet Australia’s health requirements. Those with certain medical conditions may need to undergo health checks.

4. Application Process

The application process for the eVisitor Visa is straightforward and fully online. Here are the steps:

  1. Check Eligibility
    Before applying, confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements and hold a passport from an eligible country.
  2. Create an ImmiAccount
    To apply for the visa, you must create an ImmiAccount on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
  3. Complete the Application Form
    Log into your ImmiAccount and fill out the eVisitor Visa application form. Provide accurate information about your identity, travel plans, and health and character declarations.
  4. Submit Supporting Documents
    Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a copy of your passport or evidence of your travel plans.
  5. Submit the Application
    Once your application is complete, submit it online. Most applications are processed within a few days, although some may take longer.
  6. Receive the Visa Grant Notification
    If your application is approved, you will receive a visa grant notification via email. Keep this for your records, as it serves as proof of your visa approval.

5. Conditions of the eVisitor Visa

While on an eVisitor Visa, you must adhere to the following conditions:

  • Tourism and Business Purposes Only: You cannot work or engage in paid employment while in Australia.
  • Three-Month Limit: Each stay in Australia cannot exceed three months.
  • Valid Passport: Your passport must remain valid for the duration of your stay.

Breaching any of these conditions could result in the cancellation of your visa and impact future visa applications.

6. Benefits of the eVisitor Visa

  • Free of Cost: With no application fees, the eVisitor Visa is a cost-effective option for eligible travellers.
  • Convenience: The online application process is simple and efficient.
  • Multiple Visits: The visa’s multiple-entry feature allows you to re-enter Australia during its 12-month validity period.
  • Flexible Travel Options: Suitable for a range of purposes, including holidays, family visits, and business meetings.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

  • Providing Incorrect Information: Ensure all details match your passport exactly, including your name and passport number.
  • Not Checking Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Australia.
  • Applying Late: Although the eVisitor Visa is typically processed quickly, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date.
  • Confusing the eVisitor Visa with Other Visa Types: The eVisitor Visa is different from the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). Ensure you apply for the correct visa based on your eligibility.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long can I stay in Australia on an eVisitor Visa?
You can stay for up to three months per visit within the 12-month validity period of the visa.

2. Can I extend my stay in Australia?
The eVisitor Visa cannot be extended. However, you may apply for a different visa if you wish to stay longer.

3. Is there a fee for the eVisitor Visa?
No, the eVisitor Visa is free of charge.

4. Can I work in Australia on this visa?
No, the eVisitor Visa does not permit work or paid employment. It is strictly for tourism or business visitor purposes.

5. Do I need to carry a printed copy of my visa?
While it’s not mandatory to carry a printed copy, it is recommended to have your visa grant notification with you, as airlines may request to see proof of your visa when boarding your flight.

6. What should I do if my application is denied?
If your visa application is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may be able to address the issues and reapply or seek assistance from a migration agent.

7. Can I study on an eVisitor Visa?
You can study for up to three months, but for longer courses, you’ll need a Student Visa (Subclass 500).

9. Summary

The eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) is an excellent option for short-term travel to Australia, offering free and convenient access for eligible passport holders. With the ability to stay for up to three months per visit and multiple entries allowed within a 12-month period, it provides flexibility for tourism and business activities. However, applicants must carefully follow the eligibility criteria and visa conditions to ensure a smooth travel experience.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official Australian Government website.

 

Tags

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow Us On The Socials

  • What Do Record Numbers of Working Holiday Maker Visas Mean for Employers and Migrants?

    With over 206,000 Working Holiday Maker visa holders in Australia, employers and migrants face new visa rules and labour market shifts. Learn about the pros, cons, and future of the WHM visa

  • Is Australia’s New Migration Ballot System a Fair Approach?

    Is Australia’s new visa ballot system fair? Explore changes to Work Holiday, MATES & Pacific visas. Impact on migration prospects for 2024-25

  • Will Immigration Be a Deciding Factor in Australia’s 2025 Election?

    Australia’s Immigration Debate Heats Up: Could immigration decide the 2025 election? Learn how migration caps, housing, and workforce shortages are driving the political agenda

  • Subclass 601 Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) – A Guide for Visitors Australia

    Your Guide to the Subclass 601 ETA Visa in Australia. We unpack the ETA visa eligibility, costs, how to apply, FAQ’s and more