Different Type of Australian Visas, Purpose, Eligibility and Application Processes

In this post, we shall be discussing the different types of Australian Visas, purposes, its eligibility and application process. If you are seeking for a visa to Australia then you might be needing this post so you don’t make mistakes when applying for your visa.

Different Type of Australian Visas Eligibility and Application Processes

Australia offers a diverse range of visas to accommodate various immigration and travel needs. Here, we’ll provide an overview of some common Australian visas and their application processes.

Visitor Visas

Purpose: Short-term visits for tourism, business, or family reasons.

Subclass 600 Visitor Visa

• Eligibility: Open to people from all countries.
• Application Process: Apply online through the official Australian government website or at a visa application center. You may need to attend an interview or provide biometrics.
• Processing Time: Varies but typically processed within a few weeks.

eVisitor (Subclass 651)

• Eligibility: Available to citizens of European Union (EU) countries, as well as a few other European countries.
• Application Process: Apply online for free. Processing is generally quick, often within a few days.

Student Visas

Purpose: Study full-time at a registered Australian educational institution.

Subclass 500 Student Visa

• Eligibility: Admission to an Australian institution and proof of funds.
• Application Process: Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website. You’ll receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from your institution, which you’ll need for your visa application.
• Processing Time: Varies, but can take several weeks to a few months.

Work Visas

Purpose: Work in Australia temporarily or permanently.

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

• Eligibility: Sponsored by an Australian employer for a specific job.
• Application Process: Your employer must be an approved sponsor and nominate you for the position. Apply online, and your employer will provide you with a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) for tracking.
• Processing Time: Varies but can take several months.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

• Eligibility: Based on a points system and skills assessment.
• Application Process: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system. If invited, you can then apply for the visa online.
• Processing Time: Processing times vary, and it can take months.

Family Visas

Purpose: Reunite with family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)

• Eligibility: Spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
• Application Process: Lodge an application online. Temporary and permanent visas are applied for together.
• Processing Time: Can take over a year for both temporary and permanent visas to be granted.

Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

• Eligibility: Parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Application Process: Apply online, but the queue for this visa category can be long, resulting in several years of waiting.
• Processing Time: Significant waiting times.

Refugee and Humanitarian Visas

Purpose: Protection for refugees and those in humanitarian need.

Refugee Visa (Subclass 200)

• Eligibility: People outside Australia who meet the refugee criteria.
• Application Process: Apply through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
• Processing Time: Varies depending on circumstances.

Protection Visa (Subclass 866)

• Eligibility: People in Australia seeking asylum and protection.
• Application Process: Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
• Processing Time: Varies but can be lengthy.

The application process and eligibility criteria for Australian visas can be complex and subject to change. It is crucial to consult the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website or seek assistance from a registered migration agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information tailored to your specific circumstances.