Fineberg Migration Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about Australian visas or the migration process? You're not alone. This page answers some of the most commonly asked questions about visas, eligibility, application timelines, bridging visas, and how migration agents can help. Whether you're just starting your migration journey or facing a specific challenge, our FAQs are here to guide you through the basics.
For tailored advice, we encourage you to get in touch with our experienced team.
Frequently Asked Questions – Visitor visas (Subclass 600)
❓ 1. What is the Visitor visa (subclass 600)?
The Visitor visa (subclass 600) allows people to travel to Australia temporarily for tourism, visiting family or friends, or certain short-term business activities. It has several streams tailored to different purposes of travel.
❓ 2. What are the different streams of the subclass 600 visa?
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Tourist stream (onshore or offshore) – for holidays or visiting friends/family.
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Sponsored Family stream – for visiting family in Australia with a formal sponsor.
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Business Visitor stream – for business-related trips such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
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Approved Destination Status stream – for Chinese citizens travelling in organised tour groups.
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Frequent Traveller stream – for frequent Chinese travellers holding a passport from the People’s Republic of China.
❓ 3. How long can I stay on a Visitor visa?
You may be granted a stay of up to 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the stream you apply for and the Department’s assessment of your application.
❓ 4. Can I apply for this visa while I’m in Australia?
Yes. If you are already in Australia and your current visa allows you to apply for another visa, you can lodge an onshore Tourist stream application.
❓ 5. Can I extend my Visitor visa?
You cannot extend the same visa, but you may be eligible to apply for another Visitor visa from within Australia if your current visa has no “No Further Stay” condition.
❓ 6. Can I work on this visa?
No. The subclass 600 visa does not permit paid work in Australia. Business Visitor stream holders may attend meetings and conferences, but cannot undertake employment or sell goods/services.
❓ 7. Can I study on this visa?
Yes, you can study for up to 3 months during your stay. If you intend to study longer, a student visa is more appropriate.
❓ 8. What financial documents do I need to include?
You should provide:
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Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds
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Payslips or tax returns
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Evidence of assets (if applicable)
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If someone else is paying: their financial documents and a signed letter of support
❓ 9. What is a "genuine temporary entrant" and how do I prove it?
A genuine temporary entrant (GTE) is someone who genuinely intends to visit Australia temporarily and return to their home country. You can show this by providing:
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Evidence of strong ties to your home country (job, family, dependants, assets)
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Travel history showing prior international travel and returns
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Clear purpose for your trip with supporting documents
❓ 10. How much does the Visitor visa (subclass 600) cost?
As of July 2025, the base application charge for the Visitor visa is AUD $190, but fees may vary depending on the stream and whether you apply onshore or offshore.
❓ 11. What happens if my visa is refused?
If your application is refused, you may:
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Reapply with stronger supporting documents, or
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Appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) (only in some circumstances, such as onshore refusals)
We recommend seeking advice before reapplying or lodging a review.
❓ 12. Can I include my family members in the application?
Each person (including children) must usually apply for their own Visitor visa, though applications can be lodged and assessed together as a family unit.
❓ 13. Is health insurance required for the Visitor visa?
While not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that you have health insurance for the duration of your stay, as you won’t be covered by Medicare unless you’re from a country with a reciprocal healthcare agreement.
