Australia visitor visa from India: a checklist
The Visitor visa (subclass 600) explained: streams, documents, biometrics and how far ahead to apply.
Australia is now one of the most-searched visa destinations from India. Families visit children studying and working in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane; others go for the Great Barrier Reef, the Gold Coast and the Great Ocean Road. Most travellers use the Visitor visa (subclass 600).
Here's which stream to choose, what it costs, a document checklist and how long to allow. It reflects the position at the time of writing (October 2026).
Choose the right stream
| Stream | For |
|---|---|
| Tourist | Holidays, visiting family and friends |
| Business Visitor | Meetings, conferences, negotiations (not work) |
| Sponsored Family | When an eligible relative in Australia formally sponsors the visit |
Most families visiting children in Australia apply in the Tourist stream, with an invitation letter from their son or daughter. The Sponsored Family stream can require a security bond and is usually only needed when an applicant's own ties are weaker.
What does it cost?
From 1 July 2026, the visa application charge for the Tourist stream applied for outside Australia is A$250 per person. Each family member pays separately, the charge is not refunded if the visa is refused, and Australian visa charges are adjusted every July. Biometrics and any health examinations are paid separately.
Document checklist
Identity
- Passport (all pages with stamps or visas), plus old passports
- Recent photograph
- National ID, such as Aadhaar
Purpose
- Itinerary and accommodation details
- If visiting family: an invitation letter, their visa or citizenship status, and proof of relationship (such as a birth certificate)
- For business: a letter from your employer and an invitation from the Australian company
Funds
- Bank statements for the last three to six months
- Income tax returns for the last two or three years
- Fixed deposits or other savings, if relevant
- If a family member in Australia is paying: their financial documents and a support letter
Ties to India
- Employer's letter with leave approval, and salary slips
- Self-employed: business registration and financials
- Retired: pension documents
- Property documents and family commitments
Health
- Health insurance for the stay is strongly recommended, and essential for older parents
- A medical examination may be requested for longer stays or some applicants
Lodging and biometrics
Applications are lodged online through the Australian government's ImmiAccount. Most applicants from India are then asked to give biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at an Australian visa application centre, which you'll find in Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai and other major cities. We book the appointment as soon as the request arrives.
Processing time
It varies by stream, season and applicant, from a few weeks to longer. Lodge two to three months before travel if you can, especially for Australian summer (December to February) and graduation seasons.
How long can you stay?
Visitor visas are often granted for up to three months per visit, sometimes longer for parents visiting children. Some applicants receive multiple-entry visas valid for one or three years. The stay period is printed on the grant notice; check it carefully.
Tips for a strong application
- Write a clear cover statement. Explain your plans, who you'll see, how you'll pay, and why you'll return.
- Show your ties. Job, business, property and family at home matter as much as funds.
- Be consistent. Dates in the itinerary, leave letter and invitation should match.
- Answer every question honestly, including previous refusals for any country.
- Respond quickly to any request for more information.
- Don't book non-refundable flights until the visa is granted.
Parents visiting children
Indian parents often want to stay longer to help with a new grandchild. Australia offers a longer-stay option for parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents, with conditions including health insurance. Ask us whether it applies.
We prepare the application, check it for consistency, book biometrics and track progress. See our Australia visa service.
Questions, answered
How much is the Australia tourist visa fee from India?
A$250 per person for the Tourist stream applied for outside Australia, from 1 July 2026. Charges are adjusted each July and are not refunded if refused.
How long does an Australian visitor visa take?
From a few weeks to longer, depending on the stream and season. Lodge two to three months before travel if you can.
Do I need biometrics for an Australian visa?
Most applicants from India are asked to give fingerprints and a photo at a visa application centre after lodging online.
Can parents stay longer in Australia?
Visitor visas are often granted for up to three months per visit. Parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents may qualify for longer stays; ask us.
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