E-visitor visa subclass 651
Introduction
The e-visitor visa (subclass 651) is a free electronic visa that lets people from certain countries visit Australia for short trips. It’s designed for tourists, business travellers, and individuals visiting family or friends. The key benefit is that it’s completely free and allows multiple entries over 12 months. The Australian e-visitor Visa is available to citizens of over 50 countries, including the United Kingdom, Iceland, Ireland, and most Schengen and European passport holders. If you’re planning a short visit to Australia from an eligible country, this could be your gateway to exploring down under without any visa costs.
Subclasses
The eVisitor visa has only one subclass (651). Here’s how it compares to other Australian visitor visas:
Comparison with Other Visitor Visas
| Visa Type | ETA (601) | Visitor Visa (600) | eVisitor (651) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who Can Apply | Select countries (US, Canada, Japan, etc.) | All nationalities | EU/European countries |
| How to Apply | Mobile app/online | Online/paper forms | Online only |
| Processing Time | Minutes to 3 days | 15-35 days | 1-10 days |
| Cost | AUD 20 | AUD 145-370 AUD | Free |
| Maximum Stay | 3 months per visit | Up to 12 months | 3 months per visit |
| Valid For | 12 months (multiple entries) | Up to 12 months | 12 months (multiple entries) |
| Work Rights | None | None | None |
Eligibility Requirements
Basic Criteria
- Age requirements: No age restrictions apply to the eVisitor visa
- Nationality requirements:
- Must hold a valid passport from one of the eligible countries
- Available to citizens of over 50 countries, including the UK, Iceland, Ireland, and most Schengen countries
- Eligible countries include most EU nations plus Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and Vatican City
- Health and character requirements: Must be in good health with no serious criminal history or outstanding debts to the Australian government
- Sponsor/nomination requirements:
- No sponsor or nomination required
- Must be a genuine visitor with temporary stay intentions
- Must have no outstanding debts to the Australian government
- If under 18, visit must be in the child’s best interests
Specific Requirements
- Education/qualification requirements: No specific education or qualification requirements
- Work experience requirements: No work experience required
- English language requirements: No formal English test required, but basic communication ability is helpful
- Financial requirements: Must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover entire stay, including accommodation, meals, activities, and return travel (amount varies by trip length and lifestyle)
Application Process
Step-by-Step Overview
1
Preparation Phase
Check your country’s eligibility, ensure passport validity, gather your passport details and personal information
2
Online Application
Submit application through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. Use ImmiAccount for online submission
3
Biometrics
No biometric appointment required for eVisitor visa applications
4
Assessment Period
Wait for processing (typically 1-2 days). Some applications may take longer for additional checks
5
Decision Notification
Receive visa grant notification via email. Visa is electronically linked to your passport
Key Tips
Best time to apply
- Apply 2-3 weeks before the planned travel date
- Allows time for unexpected delays or document requests
Common mistakes to avoid
- Double-check that personal details match the passport exactly
- Don’t apply too close to the travel date
- Answer health and character questions honestly
- False information can lead to refusal and future difficulties
Required Documents
Essential Documentation
- Passport and identity documents: Valid passport from an eligible country with a minimum of 6 months validity remaining and must be same password to travel Australia
- Education Certificate: Not required for e-visitor applications
- Work Experience Evidence: Not applicable for visitor visas
- Health examinations: Generally not required unless specifically requested for certain medical conditions
- Police clearances: Not required for standard applications may be requested in some cases
- English Test Results: Not applicable for e-visitor visa
Additional Documents (visa-specific)
- Proof of funds: Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing adequate finances)
- Travel tickets : Letter of invitation (if visiting family or friends in Australia)
- Travel itinerary: Helpful to have planned dates and accommodation details ready
- Invitation letters: From Australian family or friends if visiting them (not mandatory but supportive)
- Travel insurance: Travel insurance documentation (recommended but not mandatory)
Processing Time & Costs
Fee Structure
Application fee
AUD $ 0
(Completely Free)
Processing time:
- 1-2 days for most applications
- 90% of applications processed within 48 hours
Additional costs:
Document translation
if needed
Health examinations:
if needed
Travel insurance
if needed
Tips for faster processing
- Ensure all information is accurate and complete
- Answer all questions truthfully
- Apply during Australian business hours for potentially quicker processing
- Have passport details ready and double-check entries
- Most applications are processed automatically, so accuracy prevents delays
Conclusion
The eVisitor visa offers an excellent, cost-free opportunity for eligible travellers to explore Australia for up to 3 months per visit over 12 months. Your next step should be verifying your passport country’s eligibility, then applying online through the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website. If you have complex circumstances or questions about your eligibility, consider consulting a registered migration agent for professional guidance. Don’t delay – apply once your travel plans are confirmed to ensure smooth entry into Australia.
Ready to begin your Australian visitor visa journey?
Ready to begin your Australian visitor visa journey? Start by assessing your eligibility and gathering required documentation. For complex cases or to maximise your success prospects, consider professional consultation with registered migration agents who can provide personalised guidance and expert application preparation.
Contact our experienced immigration consultants today for a comprehensive assessment of your circumstances and strategic application planning. Take the first step toward your Australian adventure with confidence and professional support.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the e-visitor visa doesn't allow any paid work in Australia. You can only do business visitor activities, like attending meetings or conferences, without being paid locally.
No, the e-visitor visa cannot be extended under any circumstances. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa before your current one expires.
You can stay up to 3 months per visit. You can leave and return multiple times during the 12-month visa validity, but each individual stay is limited to 3 months maximum.
Each person needs their own individual e-visitor visa application, including children. However, if they hold passports from eligible countries, they can also apply for free.
Yes, you can study or undertake training courses for up to 3 months only. For longer study periods, you'll need to apply for a student visa instead.
