Visitor visa preparation checklist

In general terms, work out whether your purpose fits a tourist, sponsored family, business visitor or other stream, since this shapes the evidence and conditions. Check the official Home Affairs page; a registered practitioner can advise on your circumstances.

Typically applicants are expected to intend a genuine, temporary visit and to leave at the end of the stay. Reflect on ties to your home country and the purpose of the trip. This is general information only, not advice.

A clear colour copy of your current passport's photo page is typically the first document requested. If your name has changed at any point, gather the records that show the change so your documents all match.

Applications generally ask for passport pages showing entry and exit stamps, from current and expired passports, plus copies of visas you have held for other countries. A recently issued passport can be paired with records from the old one.

A simple outline of where you plan to go and what you plan to do is typically requested for tourist visits. Booking confirmations, tour details or event information can support the outline, and plans can generally remain flexible.

Recent personal bank statements are the most commonly provided evidence of funds. Payslips, tax documents, property records or pension statements can also help show you can cover travel, accommodation and day-to-day costs.

If you are employed, a letter from your employer confirming your role and approved leave, together with recent payslips, is typically provided. If you run a business, registration or licence documents generally serve the same purpose.

If you are visiting relatives or friends, an invitation letter and evidence of how you are connected can be useful. Some applicants are also asked for a family composition record or household register where their country issues one.

The sponsored family stream generally involves a separate sponsorship application completed by an eligible relative in Australia. Coordinate with your sponsor early so their paperwork is ready alongside your own.

The application includes a series of health and character questions, and examinations or police certificates are generally requested only case by case. Have your medical history and any court or police records on hand in case they are asked for.

Documents in a language other than English are generally accompanied by a certified translation. Use an accredited translator and keep the original and the translation together in your file.

After lodging, the status can typically be followed through ImmiAccount, and the department may request further information. The grant notice sets out the authorised period and conditions. This is general information only.