Planning a trip to Australia? The 600 tourist visa is the main visa for people who want to visit for a holiday, sightseeing, or to see family and friends. At Arch Migration, we help you understand exactly what you need before you apply. This means fewer delays and a stronger application.

This guide covers who can apply, what documents you need, and how to apply step by step. For details on costs and stay lengths, read other pillar guide: Tourist Visa Australia: Complete Guide to Requirements, Application Process, Costs & Stay Options.

What Is the 600 Tourist Visa?

The 600 tourist visa is a temporary visa. It lets you enter Australia to visit for tourism, a holiday, or to see loved ones. You can stay for 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on what you are granted. You cannot work on this visa. You also cannot study long term. Short courses of up to three months are usually fine.

Who Needs This Visa?

Not everyone needs a full 600 tourist visa. Some travellers can use the free eVisitor visa or the low-cost ETA instead. Check if your country is on one of those lists first. If not, the 600 tourist visa is the visa for you.

Eligibility for the 600 Tourist Visa

To qualify, you need to meet a few key rules. Here’s what the Department looks at.

Genuine Visitor Intent

You must show that your visit is genuine. This means you plan to return home after your trip. The Department looks at your ties to home, your travel history, and your personal situation.

Enough Money for Your Trip

You need to prove you have enough funds. This covers your flights, your stay, and daily costs. You should not need to rely on government support while in Australia.

Health and Character Checks

You must be in good health and have a clean record. Some applicants need a medical exam. Others may need a police check. This depends on your country and how long you plan to stay.

Applicants Under 18

If you are under 18 and travelling alone, you may need extra paperwork. This can include consent from a parent or guardian. In some cases, a guardian visa is needed too.

Documents You Need for the 600 Tourist Visa

Good paperwork makes a big difference. Here is what to prepare.

Identity Documents

  • A valid passport (with at least six months left before it expires)
  • Passport-style photos that meet the required format

Proof of Funds

  • Recent bank statements
  • Payslips or proof of income or business ownership

Purpose of Visit

  • A clear travel itinerary
  • Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from family or friends
  • Return flight details, if you have them

Ties to Your Home Country

  • Proof of your job, property, or family duties at home
  • This helps show you plan to return

Extra Documents (If They Apply)

  • Health insurance details
  • Consent forms for applicants under 18
  • Police checks or medical results, if requested

How to Apply for the 600 Tourist Visa

Follow these steps to apply.

  1. Check you’re eligible. Confirm the Tourist stream fits your plans.
  2. Set up an ImmiAccount. This is the Department’s online portal.
  3. Gather your documents. Make sure each file is clear and current.
  4. Fill out the form. Add accurate personal and travel details.
  5. Pay the visa fee. This is required to submit your application.
  6. Reply to any requests. Answer any follow-up questions quickly.
  7. Wait for a decision. Processing time varies by country and season.

Most refusals happen because of missing documents or a weak case for genuine visitor intent. This is why expert help matters.

How Arch Migration Can Help

We prepare clear, well-documented 600 tourist visa applications. This lowers your risk of delay or refusal. We also help with guardian arrangements for applicants under 18. And we can guide you on the right health cover for your trip.

Want to learn more about fees and stay options? Read other pillar guide: Tourist Visa Australia: Complete Guide to Requirements, Application Process, Costs & Stay Options.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. 1 How long can I stay in Australia on a 600 tourist visa?

You may be granted 3, 6, or 12 months. This depends on your circumstances and what is approved.

  1. 2 Can I work while on a 600 tourist visa?

No. Paid work is not allowed under the Tourist stream.

  1. 3 Do I need travel or health insurance for a 600 tourist visa?

It’s not always required. But it’s a smart idea. In some cases, the Department may ask for proof of cover.

  1. 4 What happens if my 600 tourist visa is refused?

Most refusals come from weak proof of funds or unclear travel intent. Talk to a migration expert before you reapply.

  1. 5 Can a child under 18 apply for a 600 tourist visa alone?

Yes, but they usually need consent from a parent or guardian. Some cases also need a guardian visa application.

Need help with your 600 tourist visa application?

Arch Migration can guide you through every step.

📧 Email: enquire@amaes.com.au

📍 Address: Como Centre, Level 19, 299 Toorak Road, South Yarra, VIC 3141

📞 Phone: +61 426 628 875

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