Australia is a dream destination for travelers, whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or to see family and friends. However, choosing the right visa can be confusing. The two most common options are the Australia Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) and the Visitor Visa (Subclass 651 or Subclass 600). In this guide, we will break down the key differences between these visas and help you determine which one suits your travel needs.

Understanding the Australia Tourist Visa (Subclass 600)

The Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) is designed for individuals who want to visit Australia for tourism, leisure, or visiting family and friends. It allows travelers to stay in Australia for a set period, typically up to 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the visa conditions granted.

Key Features of the Tourist Visa:

• Purpose: For tourism, holidays, or visiting relatives.
• Duration: Up to 12 months (varies by applicant and circumstances).
• Work Rights: Not permitted; business activities are not allowed.
• Study: You can study for up to 3 months.
• Multiple or Single Entry: Depending on your visa conditions, you may be allowed multiple entries.
• Processing Time: Varies but typically ranges from 2 to 30 days.
• Eligibility:
  • Must have sufficient funds for your stay.
  • Need to demonstrate strong ties to your home country to ensure you will return after your visit.
  • May require health and character checks.

Who Should Apply for a Tourist Visa?

You should apply for a Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) if: ✅ You want to explore Australia as a tourist. ✅ You plan to visit family and friends. ✅ You do not qualify for a free Visitor Visa (Subclass 651). ✅ You need a longer stay (more than 3 months).

Understanding the Visitor Visa (Subclass 651 & Subclass 600)

The Visitor Visa includes multiple subclasses, but the most common ones are Visitor Visa (Subclass 651) and Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).

Visitor Visa (Subclass 651 – eVisitor)

The eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) is a free visa available to passport holders from certain countries. It allows multiple short visits to Australia for up to 3 months at a time within a 12-month period.

Key Features of the eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651):

• Purpose: Tourism, business visitor activities (such as meetings and conferences).
• Duration: Multiple short stays (up to 3 months per visit) within 12 months.
• Work Rights: Not permitted.
• Processing Time: Usually instant to a few days.
• Eligibility:
  • Only available to certain European passport holders.
  • Must be outside Australia when applying.
  • Must have sufficient funds for travel.

✅ Who Should Apply for an eVisitor Visa?

• Travelers from eligible European countries.
• Those planning short-term visits for tourism or business meetings.

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600 – Business or Sponsored Family Stream)

If you are not eligible for the Subclass 651 eVisitor Visa, you may need to apply for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) under the Business or Sponsored Family Stream.

Key Features of the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600 – Business or Family Stream):

• Purpose: Business trips, visiting relatives, or general tourism.
• Duration: Up to 3, 6, or 12 months.
• Work Rights: Not allowed, but attending business meetings is permitted.
• Processing Time: Usually between 2 to 30 days.
• Eligibility:
  • Available to non-European passport holders and those who do not qualify for a free eVisitor Visa.
  • Must have proof of funds and a strong intention to return home.
  • Sponsored Family Stream applicants must have an eligible Australian sponsor.

✅ Who Should Apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)?

• Travelers from non-European countries.
• Business visitors attending meetings, conferences, or short-term training.
• Those visiting family under the Sponsored Family Stream.

Key Differences Between the Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa

Which Visa Should You Apply For?

Choose the Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) If:

✅ You need a longer stay (more than 3 months). ✅ You do not qualify for an eVisitor Visa. ✅ You are not from an eligible European country. ✅ You want flexibility to stay for up to 12 months.

Choose the Visitor Visa (Subclass 651 or Subclass 600) If:

✅ You are from an eligible European country and qualify for the free eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651). ✅ You plan short-term trips (up to 3 months per visit). ✅ You need to visit Australia for business meetings or conferences. ✅ You are sponsored by a family member under the Sponsored Family Stream.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right visa depends on your nationality, travel purpose, and intended length of stay. The Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) is best for longer stays, while the Visitor Visa (Subclass 651 or 600) is ideal for short visits, especially for European travelers.

If you’re unsure which visa is right for you, Mahi Visa Services can guide you through the application process. Contact us today for expert assistance!

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