Australia Visa Requirements 2026

Indian passport holders need a visa for Australia. Tourists apply online for the Visitor visa (subclass 600), which starts at AUD 250 and can allow stays of up to 12 months. Indian passports are not eligible for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

Passport; Proof of funds for the stay; Evidence of employment, study or other ties showing you will return to India; Travel plans; Invitation letter if you are visiting family or friends.

Visitor visa (subclass 600), Tourist stream: From AUD 250. Visitor visa (subclass 600), Business Visitor stream: From AUD 250. Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601): Not applicable. AUD 250 is the base application charge listed by the Department of Home Affairs for the subclass 600 visa applied for outside Australia. Biometrics collection, health checks and police certificates, if asked for, cost extra.

Varies; the Department of Home Affairs publishes current times in its visa processing time guide.

A visa cover letter is a formal document submitted with your visa application that explains the purpose of your visit, travel itinerary, financial means, accommodation details, and your intent to return home. While not always mandatory, a well-written cover letter helps visa officers understand your case quickly and can strengthen your application.

You can track your visa application status online through the official embassy or consulate website using your application reference number. Most visa application centres (such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International) also provide online tracking portals where you can check your application status in real time.

A single-entry visa allows you to enter the destination country only once during its validity period. A multiple-entry visa permits you to enter and exit the country multiple times. Multiple-entry visas are ideal for frequent travellers and are often valid for longer durations such as 1, 3, or 5 years.

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the specific reason for the decision. You may be able to reapply by addressing the concerns mentioned, file an appeal if the country's regulations allow it, or request a reconsideration. It is advisable to seek professional advice before reapplying.

Yes, children typically require their own visa even if they are travelling with parents. In some cases, minors can be included on a parent's application. Additional documents such as birth certificates, parental consent letters from both parents, and school enrolment letters are usually required for minor applicants.

The 6-month passport validity rule requires your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the destination country. This is a common requirement for many countries worldwide. If your passport does not meet this requirement, your visa application may be denied even if all other documents are in order.