Changes to Visitor visa lodgement arrangements
- The Department of Home Affairs (the Department) is introducing 100 per cent online lodgement for Visitor visas (subclass 600).
- In line with the Australian Government’s Digital Transformation Strategy, the Department is progressively transitioning towards delivering its information and services via digital platforms that are simple, clear and fast. Most other visa products are available only through online lodgement, including Student, Skilled, Partner, and a range of other temporary visas. This has been a positive move for clients and the Department and we are expecting the same success with Visitor visas.
- The change will be introduced in two phases, commencing from September 2021.
- Most applicants can, and do, already apply for a Visitor visa online through ImmiAccount.
- From 30 September 2021 (phase 1), all applicants outside Australia applying for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) in any stream must lodge their application online via ImmiAccount.
- From early 2022 (phase 2), all applicants in Australia applying for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) in the Tourist stream must lodge their application online via ImmiAccount.
- Applying for a visa online is the preferred and most efficient way to apply. There are many benefits to applying online, including:
- Faster visa processing times
- Apply online at any convenient time
- Use mobile devices to apply
- Attach documents online
- Check application status, correct mistakes or update details online
- Further information and guidance on applying online and ImmiAccount is available on the Department’s website at: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/applying-online-or-on-paper/online
- Following these changes, paper applications will not be accepted as valid unless the applicant has received written notice from the Department stating that they may apply using a non-internet form. Written notice will only be provided in exceptional circumstances.
- More information about these changes will be updated on the Department’s website for each Visitor visa (subclass 600) stream page. A list of all streams is at: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600