Visa requirements for Australia

Updated 2025

Australia has a comprehensive visa system catering to various travel purposes, including tourism, business, study, and work. As of 2025, the Australian Government continues to offer a range of visa options to accommodate the diverse needs of international travelers.

Who Can Enter Australia Without a Visa

Citizens of New Zealand can enter Australia without a visa and are granted a Special Category visa (subclass 444) upon arrival.

Types of visas and how to apply for them

Visitor Visas

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601): Citizens from the United States, Canada, UK, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Chile, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Mongolia, Taiwan, and most European Union countries can enter Australia with an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa, which allows multiple visits for tourism or business purposes.This visa allows visitors from these nations to travel to Australia for tourism or business activities for short stays, typically up to 90 days, without the need to apply for a traditional visa.

However, it’s essential to confirm eligibility and requirements before applying for an ETA or eVisitor visa, as the conditions may vary.

eVisitor (subclass 651): A free visa for passport holders from certain European countries, allowing multiple visits for tourism or business purposes.

Visitor visa (subclass 600): Allows visits for tourism, business, or family purposes.

Work and Skilled Visas

Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482): Allows employers to sponsor a foreign worker to fill a position in an occupation on the skilled occupation list.

Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189): For skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or nominated by a state or territory government.

Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): For skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): For skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative to live and work in regional Australia.

Student and Training Visas

Student visa (subclass 500): Allows international students to study full-time in Australia.

Training visa (subclass 407): For individuals to participate in workplace-based training to improve skills for their current occupation or field of study.

Family and Partner Visas

Partner visa (subclasses 820 and 801): For individuals in a relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Parent visa (subclass 103): For parents of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Business and Investment Visas

Business Innovation and Investment visa (subclass 188): For individuals to own and manage a business in Australia or to invest in an Australian state or territory.

Business Talent visa (subclass 132): For high-caliber business owners or part-owners who are nominated by a state or territory government.

Requirements to Obtain an Australian Visa

For travelers requiring a visa, the following are generally needed:

A valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the intended stay.
Completed visa application form.
Proof of sufficient funds to support the stay.
Evidence of onward travel or return tickets.
Health and character documents, if required.

Additional documents may be required depending on the visa category.

Things to do in Australia