australian tourist visa processing time philippines

Simplified Guide to Applying for a Tourist Visa to Australia From the Philippines

• January 29, 2023

Australia’s immigration policies are welcoming and make it relatively easy to secure a temporary Visa in general. However, for visitors from ‘high risk’ countries, additional scrutiny is applied. The Philippines is considered a ‘high-risk’ country, as a result of a high number of visa overstayers. Unfortunately, this means that it is generally more difficult to get an Australian visa from the Philippines – and it also usually takes longer to process, so it’s important to lodge your application as early as possible.

To get a tourist visa from the Philippines to Australia, t he visa subclass 600 is the correct visa option for anyone from the Philippines planning a vacation, family visit, or short study trip.

How long will a visitor visa to Australia from the Philippines be valid for?

The tourist Visa permits a maximum of 12-month stay in Australia – but realistically, the longest visa typically granted is 3 months for tourism purposes (a longer visa may be granted in certain circumstances, such as caring for a family member in Australia who is unwell, but it’s quite rare).

Can I study on a subclass 600 visa?

Yes – Philippines citizens can study or train for up to three months on a Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream) (Subclass 600). Any longer and you will need to apply for a student visa.

How hard is it to apply for an Australian Visitor Visa (subclass 600) from the Philippines?

The application process online is quick, it should take only a few hours of your time. However, before commencing the application process, you should ensure that all the required documents are at your disposal to lodge your application.

We have provided a simplified step-by-step guide below to help you through the application process. It’s important to note, however, that your visa application journey may differ based on your own circumstances and the individual proclivities of your visa processing officer. The important thing is to always be completely truthful and up-front; as long as you are legitimate and provide all necessary information you should not have issues getting your visa.

Can I extend my Australian visitor visa to stay longer?

The Subclass 600 visa cannot be extended to allow you to stay in Australia for a longer period. You would be required to apply for a different visa in Australia, and that would depend on your individual circumstances. If your current visa has a condition that prevents further stay, such as condition number 8503, “No Further Stay,” you are not eligible to apply for a new visa while you are in Australia.

If you hope to remain in Australia for an extended period or permanently, you must apply for the appropriate visa before your current visa expires.

Visitor visa processing time from Philippines to Australia

As of 23 January 2023, the estimated processing time for visitor visa applications from the Philippines is within:

• 8 Days for 25% of applications
• 16 days for 50% of applications
• 33 days for 75% of applications
• 85 days for 90% of applications

Guide – Process to apply for your Australian Subclass 600 Visitor Visa

1. determine if you are eligible for a visitor visa.

The purpose of your travel will dictate what options are available for you. If the primary purpose of your trip to Australia is tourism, a subclass 600 visitor visa is best. As mentioned earlier, this visitor visa allows a stay up to 3 months in ordinary circumstances. It is also possible to

2. Prepare the required documents

For the visitor visa subclass 600, you will need:

• A valid passport -scanned bio that shows your name and other passport details.
• A passport-sized photo
• Itinerary for your trip (including dates and places you plan on visiting/staying)

Additional documents that will help your application include:

• Proof of financial capability-you can attach bank statements and credit card limit to prove that you have the financial ability to sustain yourself for the stay and book a ticket back to the Philippines.
• Invitation letter – if you are visiting a person or for a specific event.
• Evidence of current employment -could be in the form of payslips or leave documents from your employer. This is critical to prove you will return to the Philippines.
• Crucial ties that prove you will return home; Here, you can show your educational letter, work leave, and important assets that bind you to return to the Philippines.

A combination of these documents should give comfort to the case officer that you are a legitimate visitor and will depart Australia at the expiry of your visa. Finally, you may be asked to provide additional documents (such as a police clearance certificate or health check) as part of the process – but most applicants from the Philippines do not require these.

3. Open an Immi Account

After ensuring you have all the required documents, you need to open an Immi account, the Department of Home Affairs platform through which all visa applications are made.

4. Fill out an online application

You should opt for the visitor 600 option in your form, where you will upload personal information, expected travel dates, and financial status. If you are visiting a family or friend, you should upload their information in a clear format. Clarity and specificity are essential to secure a Visa with minimal complications. The more information you can provide the better.

5. Attach the necessary documents

You can refer to step 2 above to get an idea of the required documents. The application is accompanied by documents that show your financial ability to fund the travel and stay. It is crucial that you scan bank statements and payroll  evidence. s6. Proceed to Pay

After going through the form multiple times and cross-checking that every document is in place, you should proceed to pay.

6. Pay the Visa Application Charge

Visa Application Charge – Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600):

As at 25 Jan 2023, the Visa Application Charge is 150 AUD (per applicant, including children).

7. Wait until Visa grant (or a request for further information)

Once your application is approved, a Visa Grant notice is sent by email. As your visa is electronically attached to your passport there is no need to print it.

All the best in your application – we hope to see you downunder soon!

• Family and Parent Visitor Visas
• Holiday Visa
• Invitation Letters
• Marriage and Partner Visas
• Sponsored Visitor Visa
• Tourist Visa
• Tourist Visas and Partner Visas
• Visitor Visa

How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa: Requirements & Process in the Philippines

Save time and effort by applying for an Australian tourist visa online! All you have to do is create an account, fill out the application form, upload your requirements, and pay the corresponding fee. This guide provides the detailed steps for Filipinos, as well as a sample cover letter and itinerary template.

• If you are a Philippine passport-holder who wants to travel to Australia for leisure, you must apply for a tourist visa.
• The Australian Embassy strongly encourages online applications, but you may also submit your documents at VFS Global in Makati or Cebu.
• To apply online, create an ImmiAccount. This will give you access to the self-service visa portal that’s operated by Australia’s Department of Home Affairs. 
• Fill out the Australian tourist visa application form and attach the required and supporting documents. These include your birth certificate, daily itinerary, bank certificate, bank statements, and documents that prove your occupation, i.e. COE for employees.
• If you would like to expound on your travel plans or personal background, you may also write a cover letter. A sample is provided below.
• If you plan to travel with family members, submit your applications together using only one ImmiAccount. (Multiple applicant profiles can be created under one account.) 
• Pay the Australian tourist visa processing fee of A$145 via credit card, select debit cards, PayPal, or Unionpay. The rate is as of February 2020 and does not include applicable surcharges.
• Processing of visa applications may take 2 to 28 days.
• If granted a visa, you will be sent a notice. It should inform  you if you were issued a single-entry or a multiple-entry Australian visa, as well as your allowable period of stay.
• If, at this point, you feel overwhelmed by all the information, keep calm! You’ll get through this. Meanwhile, start checking out the activities in Sydney and Gold Coast that you can easily book from WAUG — the #1 travel activity booking platform from South Korea! Download the app here to start browsing.

Explore more:  Book SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Tickets at a Discount!

1. How to Determine the Australian Visa to Apply For

If this is your first time to apply for a visa to Australia, a good place to start is the Visa Finder . This is a simple online tool that will let you explore the visa options that are avilable to you depending on your purpose. 

The Visa Finder will ask your primary intention for traveling. As you can see below, acceptable responses (for temporary stay) include: visiting a family member, attending an event, transiting through Australia, or undergoing medical treatment, among others.

Since I intend to engage in sightseeing activities, I ticked a holiday or the topmost selection. After providing my country of passport, the Visa Finder gave me this recommendation: Tourist Stream under Visitor Visa (Subclass 600).

The Tourist Stream (application from outside Australia) is what I will cover in this guide. If we have the same primary purpose, i.e. you want to take a (much-needed and well-deserved) vacation, read on further for the steps to take. However, if you have a different reason for traveling, go to the Visa Finder and confirm the Australian visa type/s that are recommended for you.

2. Ways to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa

Filipinos may consider two options: online via an ImmiAccount or offline via the Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) that’s operated by VFS Global. Let’s look at the overview for each approach:

Paper Application via VFS Global

Here are the steps if you want to apply for a tourist visa via VFS Global (AVAC):

• Accomplish, print, and sign the Form 1419 (Application for a Visitor Visa – Tourist Stream).
• Gather supporting documents.
• Prepare a Manager’s Cheque that’s payable to “Australian Embassy”.
• Schedule an appointment to submit your requirements at the Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC).
• Collect your Visa Letter from the AVAC. 

For the Manager’s Cheque: Must be drawn from any bank in the Philippines, except rural banks. The amount should be in Philippine Peso. Moreover, no other method of payment will be accepted.

For Scheduling an Appointment with AVAC: An appointment is necessary to submit your Australian visa application requirements. You or a representative may submit the documents at the VFS Global office in Makati or Cebu, which are open on weekdays (Monday-Friday) from 7am-2pm, except public holidays. Alternatively, you may also request for a one-way or two-way courier delivery.

For the Visa Letter from AVAC: This contains the result of your application. You may check your email or wait for courier delivery.

Online Application

The other way to apply for an Australian tourist visa is online via an ImmiAccount. Personally, I think this is more efficient and convenient compared to the Paper Application because there’s no third party involved. This means that you can have your application processed as soon as you have the documents uploaded and fees paid. There’s no more waiting on your appointment slot or your courier, which, at times, can be frustrating. We’ll look at this approach in detail in the succeeding sections.

3. Steps to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa Online

Once you’ve confirmed that the Tourist Stream is the right visa for you and decided that you’ll proceed with an Australian visa online application, take note of the following steps:

• Create an ImmiAccount.
• Fill out the application form.
• Attach your supporting documents.
• Pay the fee using a credit card or PayPal.

Yes, the online process is more straightforward and, as you may realize later on, pretty enjoyable!

4. How to Create an ImmiAccount for Your Australian Visa Application

Signing up for an ImmiAccount lets you access the self-service portal where you, a family member, or a friend can do the following:

• Create and complete an Australian tourist visa application (personal and group)
• Check the status of an application
• Update passport details
• Change the provided email and address

To get started, register for an ImmiAccount here . You will be asked for your name, mobile number, phone number, and a valid email address. Since the email that you’ll provide will be used to communicate updates that pertain to your application (and your group members’, if applicable), it is best to nominate one that you always check. 

Once you’ve signed up, you will receive a confirmation email. Follow the link so you can create a New Application for Visitor Visa (Subclass 600). You’ll then be asked to fill out a 20-page visa application form. 

If you have not received an email after signing up, try to do the following steps: add homeaffairs.gov.au to your safe or trusted senders list, check your application to see if you typed the right email address, and check your Junk or Spam folder. 

5. How to Fill Out the Online Australian Tourist Visa Application Form

In case you missed it, the visa application form has 20 pages. It may sound a bit tedious, but it’s actually pretty manageable. It will inquire of your personal details, travel plans to Australia, family background, health, character, occupation, and funding, among others. The good thing is that it’s not meant to be filled out in one sitting, so you can stop and save as you go. (Take your time when accomplishing the form and reviewing your responses.)

To help you prepare for this step, we’ve listed some questions that will be asked in the online Australian tourist visa application form (similar to the Form 1419 that I mentioned under Paper Application):

5.1 How long do you wish to stay in Australia?

Choices will include Up to 3 months, Up to 6 months, and Up to 12 months .

5.2 Do you hold an identity card or identity number issued to you by your government (e.g. National Identity Card)?

As of writing time, the National Identity Card system is on a dry-run phase in the Philippines. Hence, you can tick No.

However, if you happen to have a National Identity Number already, supply the details.

5.3 Are you traveling to or are you currently in Australia with any family members?

If your answer is Yes , you will need to provide the details of each of your family members in this part of the Australian tourist visa application form.

5.4 Do you have a partner, any children, or fiancé who will NOT be traveling (or has not traveled) to Australia with you?

This one seems to check your social ties in the Philippines. You will have to provide the full name, date of birth, and the person’s address if your response is Yes .

5.5 Why do you want to visit Australia?

Include details of any dates that are of special significance to your visit. For example, if you or someone in your group will celebrate a birthday or anniversary in Australia, indicate it in the spaces provided. 

5.6 In the last 5 years, have you visited or lived outside your country of passport for more than 3 consecutive months?

If your answer is Yes, provide the country(s) and dates. This question actually falls under Health Details, so, subsequently, you will be asked if you expect to incur any medical costs during your trip or have had (or currently have) tuberculosis.

5.7 What is your employment status?

You’ll be asked to give the details of your employer, business, or school, whichever is applicable. 

5.8 Explain why you are unemployed and give details of your last employment, if applicable.

Share the details. If you have been invited to or have attended job interviews already, it might be good to highlight that as well.

5.9 Give details of how you will maintain yourself financially while you are in Australia.

This part of the Australian tourist visa application form seeks to know how you plan to cover all costs that are associated with your visit. You must be able to demonstrate that you have adequate source/s of funds. 

5.10 Is your sponsor or someone else providing support for your visit to Australia?

If your response is in the affirmative, you will have to specify their details and type of support that they’ll give, i.e. financial, accommodation, and others.

Select the application from the list and click Edit .

For group applicants, you may copy a visa application of the same type for a family member and a friend to save time. Here are the steps:

• Select the checkbox for the application you want to copy.
• Select Actions .
• Select Copy from the drop-down list.
• Choose Confirm .
• Read and agree to the terms and conditions.
• Choose Next .
• The duplicate copy of the application will then show in your ImmiAccount.

Information of the original Australian visa applicant is not copied across. The added person can write over any of the copied information.

If you need to update your residential or postal address, i.e. you will be living at a different residential address for more than 14 days or your postal address has changed, do the following steps so the Australian government can contact you, if needed:

• Log in to ImmiAccount.
• Select Update details .
• Choose Change of address details .
• Select the applicant.
• Select the checkbox for Residential address or postal address .
• Enter the new details.
• Hit Submit form .

Do the following steps if you need to update your email:

• Choose Update details .
• Select Change of email address details .
• Enter your new email address.
• Click Next and expect to receive a new confirmation link.

6. Australian Tourist Visa Requirements & Supporting Documents for Filipinos

Here are the requirements to apply for an Australian tourist visa, as taken from this list provided by the Australian Embassy in the Philippines (note that your application dashboard will also tell you what documents to attach!):

6.1 Passport Bio Page 

Scan the page 2 of your current passport, which contains your photo, basic information, and passport info.

6.2 Passport Pages with Visas, Entry & Exit Stamps, Amendments, and Endorsements, if applicable

Aside from visas and stamps in your current passport, also scan those that are found in your old passport/s. These will serve as evidence of your travel history.

6.3 One (1) Passport-Size Photo

Your Australian tourist visa application picture must show your head and shoulders against a plain background.

6.4 PSA Birth certificate 

Prepare a scanned copy of your certificate of birth that’s issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority or PSA (formerly NSO).

If the Birth Certificate is late registered: A certified copy of hospital records where the applicant was born is required, according to the Australian Embassy in the Philippines.

6.5 Occupation-specific documents

Submit documents that best demonstrate your present engagement. The following lists contain the most commonly submitted requirements and some suggestions that you may consider. Of course, if you feel like you have other documents that may serve as strong evidence to your present occupation, do not hesitate to attach them. 

For EMPLOYEES

If you are a Filipino employee, submit any or all of the following:

• Certificate of Employment or COE, which indicates your role, hiring date, length of employment, and annual salary. If possible, have your COE show that you intend to return to your job (for example, He or she will resume work on… ).
• Pay slips 
• Business Card
• Bank statements showing salary credits for the last three (3) months
• Evidence of leave, such as an approved request 

For BUSINESS OWNERS

Likewise, those who own a business or are self-employed may want to submit all or any of the following:

• DTI/SEC Registration
• Business permit
• Business tax return for the last two (2) Years 
• Bank deposit slip as evidence of tax payments

For STUDENTS

Australian tourist visa applicants who are still studying may submit their Certificate of Enrollment. It may also help to submit a copy of the front and back side of the School ID.

6.6 Financial Documents

To prove your financial capacity, you must submit these requirements as per the Embassy:

• Bank Certificate showing the average daily balance for the last three (3) months
• Bank statements showing account transactions for the last three (3) months

To strengthen your Australian visa application, you may also consider submitting your Income Tax Return or ITR, audited accounts, and documents that show that you own a house or other major assets in the Philippines.

6.7 Daily Itinerary in Australia (Travel Plans)

A personalized travel itinerary will serve as a strong evidence of your intentions as a tourist. Create a detailed one even if you have not booked your flights, accommodation, travel essentials, and tours yet. If you have already done so, then attach your booking confirmation/s (roundtrip tickets, for example) to show that you will return to the Philippines (but do this at your own risk — ideally, you should make any purchase after receiving the visa!). Keep in mind that the ultimate goal of this exercise is to demonstrate your planned activities as a tourist. 

SAMPLE ITINERARY for Australian Visa Applicants

There’s no standard template provided for the daily itinerary requirement, so you are free to create your own or use a template, like what I have below. The sample contains my personal information, accommodation, and planned activities in Australia.

You can access my Australian tourist visa itinerary template here . If you want, you may also add tabs for your flights and car rentals.

Also, if you have yet to finalize the tours, attractions, and activities for your trip, do consider the following:

Things to do in SYDNEY for your Itinerary

• Sydney Tower Eye – enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view from the highest observatory tower in Sydney.
• Sydney Harbour Bridge –  have a thrilling experience by climbing up the most popular bridge in the world! 
• Sydney Skydive – enjoy and soak in the great coastal views, Blue Mountains, and the Sydney skyline from up 14,000 feet. 

Things to do in GOLD COAST & BRISBANE for your Itinerary

• WhiteWater World – this water park is popular among locals as it offers a fantastic range of water slides to be enjoyed by all ages!
• Warner Bros. Movie World – say hello to some of the iconic Looney Tunes characters and ride the Superman Escape that speeds up to 100 kph!
• Surf Lesson on the Gold Coast – grab the opportunity to surf at the beautiful Surfers Paradise Beach with qualified instructors.

Things to do in MELBOURNE for your Itinerary

• Eureka Skydeck 88 – spend a romantic night at this world-class lookout with your partner!
• Werribee Open Range Zoo – spot rhinos, giraffes, and zebras when you embark on this safari adventure across an open-range savannah!
• Melbourne City Sightseeing Bus Tour – hop on and off at any of the key landmarks of Melbourne — from the Federation Square to Harbour Town and Queen Victoria Market!

Things to do in CAIRNS for your Itinerary

• Cairns Reef Magic Cruise Tour – a semi-submersible tour that’ll let you and your friends enjoy the Great Barrier Reef!
• Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park Ticket – watch Australia’s Aboriginals portray their traditions through dance and music.
• Butterfly Sanctuary in Cairns – take a leisurely stroll through the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and spend an informative day with your loved ones.

6.8 Other documents, if applicable

Submit these documents only if they are relevant to your application:

For those who have had a CHANGE OF NAME:

• Submit a Marriage Certificate from PSA or annulment documents
• Documents that show other names you have been known by

If you will VISIT RELATIVES or FRIENDS in Australia

Submit the following requirements, as per the Embassy’s guidelines:

• Letter of invitation from your relative or friend in Australia
• A copy of the biopage of their passport
• Evidence of your relationship to your relative or friend
• Evidence that they have the necessary funds to support your intended stay

For CHILDREN TRAVELING with ONE PARENT

Submit the Form 1229 that is accomplished by the non-travelling parent, together with the parent’s contact information and valid government-issued ID with signature.

For CHILDREN TRAVELING with SOMEONE OTHER THAN A PARENT

Submit a duly accomplished Form 1229 by both parents, together with their contact information and valid government-issued IDs with signature. You must also submit a duly accomplished Form 1257 by the person responsible for the child in Australia and their valid government ID.

Provide as much proof as you can to show that you will visit Australia as a temporary visitor. (You have strong ties in the Philippines.)

Scan or photograph all of your requirements and documents. The scans and photos must be colored, clear, and legible. If a document is more than one page, you must save it all as one file.

Follow these steps:

• Select who you are attaching a document for.
• Select why you want to attach the document.
• Choose the document type from the drop-down list.
• You can attach a group of documents that are of the same type. For example, you can attach bank statements for different bank accounts.
• ImmiAccount will delete your documents if you do not submit your application in 30 days. If your documents are removed, make sure to attach them again before you submit.

You may attach up to 60 documents for each Australian tourist visa application created in ImmiAccount. Identity documents (such as your passport pages, photo, and PSA birth certificate) can be up to 500KB each. Other documents can be up to 5MB each. You may view the official instructions here .

You must translate your document/s to English. Translators outside Australia do not have to be accredited, but on each translated document, they must include their full name, address, telephone number, qualifications, and experience in the language they are translating. You do not need to have translated documents certified.

7. How to Write a Cover Letter for your Australian Visa Application

Writing a cover letter is OPTIONAL for Australian tourist visa applicants in the Philippines. You may consider writing one if you want to emphasize your purpose of travel, explain something about your personal or professional background, inform why you’re submitting a particular document, expound on how you will fund your travel costs, and others.

Here’s a cover letter that you may want to use as reference:

The sample above specifically emphasizes my personal intent, which is to make use of the long weekends in August. To customize this letter to your own purpose, refer to the following breakdown of the cover letter:

7.1 Date, Address, & Salutation

In the first few parts of your letter, indicate the date when you plan to submit your application, the address of the Australian Embassy, and the salutation:

June 15, 2020

Australian Embassy in The Philippines

Level 23 Tower 2, RCBC Plaza Tower 2

6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 1200

Dear Sir/Madam:

7.2 Introduction

Directly state what you are writing about so that the reviewing officer will know your purpose of writing straight away. Keep your introduction 1-2 sentences short, like the following sample: 

Good day! As part of my application to the Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream), I am writing this letter to provide more personal details about my reason for travel.

The next part of your cover letter is where you can provide a detailed explanation or backgrounder:

As I’ve shared in my application and itinerary, I intend to travel to Australia from August 21-31, 2020. I chose these dates because I would like to make good use of the holidays that fall on August 21st (special non-working holiday) and August 31st (regular holiday). Last year, I had a leisurely trip in South Korea and Taiwan that covers the same days.

7.4 Supporting Documents, if applicable

After providing your reason/s, let the visa officer know that you have prepared supporting documents that they can refer to, if any.

For reference, I attached my approved leave request from my employer. I also included 

my approved leave request from my trip to East Asia last year.

7.5 Reinforcement of Intention to Travel for Tourism

The final part of your cover letter is where you want to demonstrate your travel plans and, perhaps, what you expect to get from the trip.

If granted a visa, I shall push through with my trip and enjoy the tailend of the winter 

season. While I’ll be traveling alone, I know that I will delight in the attractions, markets, 

and museums in Sydney and Melbourne.

7.6 Closing & Name Block

End your cover letter by thanking the Australian visa officer and adding a complimentary close.

Thank you for reviewing my application.

Respectfully yours,

Ryan Juancho Diocson

7.7 Signature

Don’t forget to sign above your name.

You may upload your scanned cover letter under Evidence of Planned Tourism Activities .

8. Australian Tourist Visa Fees & Methods of Payment

After you share your details in the form and attach your requirements, go ahead and take that final step: pay the Australian tourist visa fee! As of February 2020, the cost to apply is A$145 or around ₱5,000 per person, as shown below:

To confirm the application fee for future dates, use the Visa Pricing Estimator .

However, do note that there will be additional fees, depending on how you would like to pay:

Payment of Australian Visa Fee using CREDIT or DEBIT CARD

Here are the surcharges for card transactions, as of writing time:

• MasterCard (including debit MasterCard): 1.32%
• VISA (including VISA debit Card): 1.32%
• American Express (AMEX): 1.40%
• Diners Club: 1.99%

Payment of Australian Visa Fee using PAYPAL

Surcharge of 1% applies.

Payment of Australian Visa Fee using UNIONPAY

If you have UnionPay and will use it to settle the processing costs, a surcharge of 1.90% applies.

9. Australian Tourist Visa Processing Time

After settling the fee, you should get an email that acknowledges receipt of your application. Now all that’s left to do is track the progress and wait for the result! If you used the Visa Finder tool, you might have seen the following information and timelines given by the Home Affairs:

• 75% of Australian tourist visa applications take 17 days to process.
• 90% of applications take 28 days.

This may have changed already, but don’t be surprised if you were able to receive a result or a Notice of Visa Grant in less than a week (or even in a matter of hours!)! It’s happened to many Filipinos, so check your ImmiAccount and email inbox for status updates from time to time. (But, hey, don’t stress!)

If you check the status of your visa application and find that you are asked to undergo a medical examination: Do it as soon as possible. However, note that NOT all tourist visa applicants will be required to undergo a health exam. Only do this step if you were instructed to in your application dashboard.

Moreover, if any other changes on your situation occur, i.e. birth, divorce, separation, marriage, de facto relationship, or death in your family, update the details BEFORE the Australian government finalizes your tourist visa application.

10. What is the maximum duration of stay for an Australian tourist visa?

It will depend on your purpose of travel and application, but it can be 3, 6, or 12 months.

11. If your Australian tourist visa application is APPROVED

Well done! Check your visa grant number, the date when your visa starts, and your visa conditions so you can plan your trip accordingly. The notice will also tell you if you were issued a multiple-entry Australian visa. 

Print the decision and keep a copy with you when you travel to Australia.

For Group Applicants: The assessment is done individually, so there is a possibility that not all family or group members who lodged an online visa application together will get a visa.

For the Visa Grant Number: The next time that you apply for a visa, you’ll have to provide this number. 

To get the most out of your Aussie trip: Download WAUG on your phone by clicking here . Discounts on the first booking await new users!

12. If your Australian tourist visa application is DENIED

The notice that you’ll receive will have the reason for rejection. It’ll also tell you if you have the right to a review of the decision. 

13. Tips from Successful Tourist Visa Applicants

To provide more information (and hopefully inspiration!), we’ve provided some posts from this Facebook group that tackles Australian visa applications and DIY-style of traveling, among others. Since the group is set to private, I am only able to share screenshots from members who are kind enough and willing to share their experiences and thoughts (personally identifiable information blurred for privacy). Please do note that the following tips and responses may not be official, so while it may have worked for other applicants, it may or may not be beneficial or true for your application:

13.1 Apply for an Australian visa online or via a travel agency?

The post reads: Sino kaya [pwede] tumulong sa akin [para mag-apply ng visa pa-Australia online?] PM naman ako. Magbigay na lang ako. 20k kasi sa agency na na-ask ko. PM na lang [po. Salamat.]

The commenters were one in saying that the online self-service portal is easy-to-use, as shown below:

Comment 1: Madali [lang. Mag-sign-up] ka for ImmiAccount

Comment 3: Mabilis lang [mag-apply ng visa sa Australia. Hindi] mo na need [ng] physical appearance. Basta complete ang i-u-upload mong documents.

Comment 4: Super dali lang mag-apply. Ready mo lang mga documents mo, then go sa website ng AU…

13.2 Is COE required?

Post : Hello. Any tips po for tourist visa application to Australia for somebody [working from home]? Do I really need to submit a COE?

Comment 1: If you are an employee — yes, of course.

Comment 2: Just recently submitted my visa application and still waiting for the Embassy. But for the requirements, recommended lang ang COE.

13.3 Do I really need to submit an itinerary for my visa application?

Post : Anyone [applied for an Australian visa online?] Need ba talaga maglagay ng itinerary? Nakalagay naman kasi [na] recommended, not required. May bearing ba? Picture for attention only.

Comment 3: Yes, kahit draft lang. Para may idea ang consul sa mga places na pupuntahan. Hindi kailangan sundin ang itinerary. Pwede naman kasi mag-iba iyon pagdating mo doon. Mabuting kumpleto ang documents kaysa kulang. It is still up to you, though.

13.4 Application is taking long to process

Post : Good afternoon, guys. Ask ko lang sana: gaano katagal ba talaga bago lumabas ang visa sa Australia? Nag-apply po kasi kami last September 5. Hanggang ngayon wala pa ang results. Nakakakaba tuloy. May pag-asa pa kaya?

The post is dated September 29, 2019, so the member who posted this was already waiting for 24 days.

Comment: Hi. It really depends sa volume din ng applicants. Some visas are granted after 5-9 days. Sa iba, from 15-30 working days.

13.5 Multiple-Entry Australian Tourist Visa APPROVED!

The post reads:  My 3rd visit visa in Australia. No job, no ITR, little amount sa bank (6 years na ang bank account ko.). May multiple properties — edge siguro iyon. [Sa previous application] ko, may job ako. I applied for single-entry lang (kasal kasi ng friend ko). 5 days lang talaga plano ko.

They gave me multiple-entry. Nanibago lang ako kasi ang tagal ng waiting sa result. At least makakatulog na ako.

The post also shows the applicant’s Notice of Visa Grant, which indicates that she was given a multiple-entry visa to Australia.

14. Reference

You may check out the official step-by-step guide to apply for an Australian tourist visa here . You may also visit the website of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines here .

All the best!

We hope your Australian visa application turns out successful! If you have any questions, comment below so other Filipino travelers may help. 

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Philpad » Visa » How to Apply for Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines

How to Apply for Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines

How to apply for Australian tourist visa in the Philippines online? This is how I got my tourist visa for Australia approved the first time of application. My Australian tourist visa was granted after 7 days. Note that processing of visa applications may differ now because of the pandemic.

On this page, I’m gonna share with you how to apply for Australian tourist visa together with the requirements and procedures to get the visa successfully.

I also helped my two sisters, one is employed and the other one self-employed, both are single. Like me, they successfully got their tourist visa for Australia approved the first time of application. I hope your visa will be granted as well because visiting Australia is amazing. I will show you how beautiful it is on another blog post.

Note that this visa application is intended only for tourist visa. Australian visa processing like student visa, working visa, immigrant visa, fiancé visa and the like have different requirements and application process. You should know your purpose and category as an applicant.

Disclaimer: This post is for information purposes only and based from personal experience. I’m not a professional travel agent or immigration expert. Using this guide won’t guarantee a visa approval. Always practice due diligence.

Table of Contents:

When to Apply for Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines?

Like any other country, I always apply for visa 3 months before the travel date simply because it is what most embassies recommend. Having this time frame will also help you prepare in gathering the complete documents required in getting Australian tourist visa.

How to Apply for Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines?

• Create an IMMI account
• Verify your email address
• Start a New Application
• Select Visitor Visa
• Read the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Statement
• Provide your details accurately
• Attach the required documents
• Submit your application
• Pay the visa fee AUD 190
• Wait for your Visa Grant notice on your email

How to Apply for Australian Tourist Visa Online (Detailed Steps):

1. create an immi account.

Create an IMMI account . If you already have one, then log in. This is where you submit your visa application. If you are a group or family, you can use one IMMI account then create each application of your family member inside your account.

2. Verify your email address

This is important and should not be missed. After you signed up or created your IMMI account, check your email inbox and find the message of IMMI Australia about the verification of your email. You should click the CONFIRM link they provided. This ensures security and assurance of your communication with them. This also ensures you will receive all notifications and emails including your visa notice. Yay!

3. Start a New application

Select the New Application button from the dashboard.

4. Select Visitor Visa

From the given options, choose Visitor then select Visitor Visa Subclass (600) .

5. Read the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Statement

Take time to read and agree to the Terms and Conditions, likewise the Privacy Statement. Take time to really read it, do not just scroll down. When finished, continue to the next page.

6. Provide your details accurately

Provide only correct and honest details. The application form will ask about necessary information including the following:

Current location

Is the applicant currently outside Australia? I put mine YES since I am in the Philippines at the time of visa application. I put Citizen on the Legal status.

Purpose of Stay

In this field, I selected Tourist stream (tourism/visit family or friends) since that was what applied to me. You need to list all reasons for visiting Australia (such as business, tourism, family visit, study, religious event, others). I only stayed in Australia to see the beautiful spots. Thus, I only listed Tourism .

Give details of any significant dates on which the applicant needs to be in Australia

You can write here any detail if you need to be in Australia on an important date or occasion. Otherwise, leave it blank if you can visit any time. I left mine blank.

Group Processing

If your application is being lodged as part of a group of applications, you can create a group ID or name and use this to your other family member’s application. How cool!

Special category of entry

Is the applicant travelling as a representative of a foreign government, or travelling on a United Nations Laissez-Passer, or a member of an exempt group? Kindly, answer yes or no with this one. This does not apply to me, so I answered NO .

Passport details

These are important details so whatever you provide in this part, you need to double or triple check. The details must also be consistent with the details on your passport. Entering incorrect info may result in delay of boarding on an aircraft. In addition, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you go abroad.

National Identify Card

I answered NO with this one since we don’t currently have national ID in the Philippines. Perhaps, when PhilID would be available for all Filipino citizens, then that would be good.

The other details are self-explanatory. Again, you must provide true and accurate data about yourself, the applicant.

Other Identity Documents

According to Australia Home Affairs, these includes national identity documents issued by a government other than Australia. These include birth certificate, driver’s license, marriage certificate, Social Security card, alien registration number and national identity document .

I provided the details for my PSA birth certificate , LTO driver’s license and SSS UMID card in this field. The identification number of PSA birth certificate is located at the lower part of the paper while the SSS UMID card is the CRN.

Travelling companions

List each of your travelling companion’s details in this field. Add each one and provide your relationship with them. If they are part of your group, provide their group ID or name.

The next part will be your contact details. Again, that is self-explanatory. Nevertheless, provide only accurate information and double check your data.

Non-accompanying members of the family unit

Does the applicant have any members of their family unit not travelling to Australia who are not Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents? Honestly, this question is a bit confusing. Apparently, if you are single , just select NO to answer this question. For further details, the definition of non-accompanying members of family unit are included when you tap the question mark button.

Proposed Period of Stay

If you are applying for multiple entry visa, this is the section where you need to let them know about it. Your details here must be consistent with your itinerary (supporting document). We did not intend to stay in Australia on more than one occasion. Fortunately, we have been granted multiple-entry visa.

Current Employment Details

Provide your employment details including your occupation and start date of job, the address of your company and their contact number. If you self-employed, choose the self-employed status.

Financial Support

This section is about your funding details or how the applicant’s stay in Australia will be funded (self-funded, supported by current overseas employer, supported by other organization, supported by another person). Whatever your choice here, you must provide proof of financial support when you upload your documents. I chose SELF FUNDED with this one.

What funds will the applicant have available to support their stay in Australia? My answer in this section was “I will use my personal savings for my hotel accommodation for all the expenses of my travel in Australia.”

Health and character declarations

You need to answer truthfully all the questions in these sections. Remember, do not lie.

Visa History

This is helpful especially when you have visas issued by other countries. Expired or not, you can provide the details in the box. Moreover, you must also answer honestly if you ever had a visa for Australia or any other country refused or cancelled.

7. Attach the required documents

Tourist visa online application for Australia requires uploading of scanned documents. There are specific quality and formatting requirements when scanning documents. The specific instructions can be found on your IMMI account.

Follow the guides on how to upload the documents in this page: “Australian Tourist Visa Requirements for Filipinos.”

To sum up, you can attach files up to 5MB in size with the following extensions: bmp, dcm, doc, docx, dot, gif, jpg, pdf, png, ppt, pptx, rtf, txt, xls, xlsx.

8. Submit your application

Do not click SUBMIT unless you have completed the attachment of the required documents. Once you have checked and reviewed everything, every answer, submit your application.

9. Pay the visa fee

Tourist visa application fee for Australia is AUD 190 for Visitor Subclass 600 . After you submit your application, you will be taken to a page to pay the visa processing fee. You can pay using a credit card. It’s the fastest and easiest way.

10. Wait for your Visa Grant notice on your email

The nerve-wracking part is waiting for your visa to be approved. Chill out and do not worry if you have done your best. You have nothing to worry about if you have provided truthful information.

I got my visa grant notice after 7 working-days. A friend of my sister mentioned they usually receive visa at lunch time whenever they apply. I think they’re right because we received our visa notice around lunch. I say anytime of the day is fine as long as it is granted.

Australian Tourist Visa Requirements Philippines:

• Online Application Form
• Passport-size photo (soft copy, with your signature at the back)
• Passport info page
• Evidence of previous travel (visa documentation and entry or exit stamped pages of current or old passport)
• Family Composition Form (Form 54, PSA birth certificate)
• Evidence of planned tourism activities in Australia (itinerary or planned activities)
• Proof of financial status and funding for visit (personal bank statement, bank certificate, ITR, credit card statement, title deed, retirement pension book, tax document)
• Evidence employment or self-employment (certificate of employment, payslip, evidence of leave, DTI Permit, Mayor’s Permit)

Bank statement and bank certificate must be issued in the last 3 months at the time of visa application. For employed applicants, your certificate of employment must indicate your length of employment or how many years you’ve been employed, your annual salary and your position in the company.

Australian Tourist Visa Philippines Processing Time

How long is the processing time for Australia tourist visa online application? We got our visa after 7 working days. Some people get theirs after 3 days, others after 24 hours. It depends upon your application, case, and your documents. After you submitted your visa application, you will receive an estimated time frame of the result. It’s usually the one being followed in most cases.

Australian Tourist Visa Validity

According to IMMI Australia, they generally grant 3-month visa or 12-month visa in certain circumstances. It’s a case to case basis. They can grant single or multiple entry. Your visa validity can be found on your visa grant notice.

Other Visa Guides:

Australian Tourist Visa Requirements for Filipinos

• How to Apply for UK Tourist Visa in the Philippines
• How to Get Bank Certificate in BDO for Visa Application
• Japan Tourist Visa Requirements for Filipinos

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Fehl is the founder of Philpad. She has a degree in Accountancy and a background in Finance. She is a licensed Career Service Professional and author of a poetry book at Barnes & Noble. In her spare time, she likes to travel and vlog.

2 thoughts on “How to Apply for Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines”

What is the purpose of the agency? ano nalang po gagawin nila if tayu na po ang gumawa ng IMMI account?

I think their purpose is for assistance and guidance. Nowadays, we’re fortunate kasi we can DIY nalang since user-friendly naman ang platform ng visa application.

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AUSTRALIAN VISA: REQUIREMENTS & ONLINE APPLICATION

One sure way to make us smile is to mention Australia. Whenever a friend asks us a simple question about our time there, we can’t seem to stop talking passionately. Australia is incredible. It may be the world’s smallest continent, but it is teeming with adventures.

So far, we have visited seven cities and six national parks (Litchfield, Kakadu, Wattarka, Kata Tjuta-Uluru, Port Campbell, and the Great Barrier Reef). Fortunately, it is easy to get an Australian tourist visa. While you can still apply via VFS Global, a more hassle-free way is to do everything online. I’ve done this three times for myself and several times for my friends and family.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

AUSTRALIAN TOURIST VISA OR BUSINESS VISA?

This guide is for those applying for an Australian Visitor Visa (subclass 600) online. Under this visa, there are two main streams: Tourist and Business.

• Tourist Stream . According to VFS, a tourist is a person visiting Australia temporarily “for a holiday, for a visit to relatives or friends, or for other short-term non-work purposes, including study for less than three months.” This stream applies to people who will be shouldering their own expenses and have no sponsors.
• Business Stream . This type is for those who are flying to Australia for a business-related activity like attending a conference or meeting a client. This is different from a Work Visa, which we know nothing about.

If you’re eyeing another type (long-term study, work, residency visas), I’m afraid we can’t help you because we haven’t experienced it.

To clarify: If you’re visiting a relative or friend but you will shoulder your travel expenses, you will still fall under the Tourist Stream . But if you’re sponsored by someone in Australia, there is a separate category for that: Sponsored Family Stream . We haven’t tried this stream yet, so we’re not covering that in this post.

AUSTRALIAN VISA REQUIREMENTS

• Accomplished online application form. No need to print anything. You will be filling this out after creating an account. The form has 20 pages, so completing it can take a while, but it’s easy.
• Passport-size photo. Soft copy.
• Copy of passport info page. Scanned. Must be clear.
• Evidence of financial status and funding for visit. Any or all of the following: – Personal bank statement – ITR or tax document – Payslips – Title deed – Retirement pension book
• Evidence of Applicant’s Previous Travel. You may be asked to provide scanned copies of the pages of your OLD and CURRENT passports that have entry and exit stamps and visas. Not all applicants are required to submit this.
• Evidence of current employment or self-employment. For employees, it can be any or all of the following: – Certificate of employment, explaining your role in the company – Evidence of leave For self-employed individuals or business-owners, any or all of the following will be accepted: – Business registration documents – Finance sheets (profits and losses) For students – Certificate of enrolment
• Family Register and Composition Form. – Form 54 (Family Composition) – PSA Birth Certificate – Marriage Certificate. If your current last name is different from your last name in your birth certificate.
• Evidence of Planned Tourism Activities in Australia. (For Tourist Stream ONLY) – Day-to-day itinerary (daily schedule showing the places you will visit and things you will do). Sample itinerary here.
• Evidence of Business-Related Reason for Travel. (For Business Stream ONLY.) It can be any or all of the following: – Conference registration – Details of previous contacts with Australian company or organization – Letter from employer explaining the reason for traveling
• Group Tour Details. If you’re visiting Australia as part of a group tour, submit any or all of the following: – Group Itinerary – Letter from company or institution organizing the tour – Group tour participants list
• Visa Fee. As of July 2019, the fee is AUD 145. Credit card, debit card, PayPal, and UnionPay are accepted.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• NOT ALL of the above are required. Some are labeled REQUIRED while others are tagged RECOMMENDED . So technically, not all of these are required. But I still strongly encourage you to submit as many listed documents as you can.
• On the list above, I keep on writing “ANY or ALL of these documents” under some categories. Why? Because in theory, you can submit just one item per document type. But of course, the more relevant documents you upload, the higher your chances of your application being approved.
• Some documents don’t apply to everyone. I tried changing some answers to check if it would affect the list of requirements and I found that it did. Therefore: The list of requirements vary depending on your answers to the questions in the form. For example, when I applied for myself and my mom, I wasn’t required to submit proof of travel history but my mom was.
• The following file types are accepted: jpg, bmp, png, pdf. PDF files must NOT be encrypted. Zip files are not allowed.
• The size of each file must not exceed 5MB. If it’s bigger than that, you will need to reduce the size. If your PDF files are still over, recreate your files with Adobe Distiller and set to “lowest file size.” Jpeg files can be set to only 96 DPI (dots per inch).

Here are additional documents that are not required but I believe can help your application go smoothly. (I submitted the following for my first application.)

• Cover Letter. This isn’t required, but it would help you a lot if you upload a letter explaining why you want to visit. Make sure that the letter summarizes and supports everything else you’re submitting. Remember, there will be no interview so it is best to let them know what you plan to do in Oz. We have a sample here: AUSTRALIAN VISA COVER LETTER.
• Roundtrip flight and hotel booking. You are actually discouraged to book flights and hotels before you’re granted a visa (so your money won’t go to waste should your application be denied), but in our case, we already had confirmed bookings so we thought we might as well submit them. This might be helpful if you snagged low fares via seat sale. But if you don’t have tickets yet, don’t book. Wait for your visa before making flight arrangements.

I know friends who also submitted their latest credit card statement . This is to show them that you have additional source of travel funds. I have a credit card but didn’t submit mine.

Again, if your trip is sponsored by a family member, apply for a visa under Sponsored Family Stream. Unfortunately, we haven’t experienced it so we don’t know the details. But from what I know, you will need to have the following on top of the other requirements.

• Letter of invitation. Only if you’re visiting a friend or relative. Best if you have photos with that friend and relative showing that you really know each other.
• Identification Documents of Sponsor. If you declare that your trip will be paid for by someone other than yourself.
• Evidence that your sponsor in Australia can financially support your trip. If you declare that your trip will be paid for by someone other than yourself.

Your sponsor might also be required to pay a bond.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AN AUSTRALIAN VISA ONLINE

1. sign up for an immiaccount..

ImmiAccount means an account with Immi.gov.au, the Australian government’s official Immigration website. It is important to create an ImmiAccount because the whole process will be done on this website.

Important: Make sure you use a working email address. Any update about your application will be sent to this email (including the acknowledgment of receipt of your application and the actual visa grant). You will also get notified every time you log into your account.

To register, go to this site .

2. Accomplish the Application Form.

Once you have an account, you’ll receive a confirmation link via email. Check your inbox and follow the link.

Once confirmed, do the following:

• Click on NEW APPLICATION. Here, you’ll be asked what type of visa you want.
• Click on VISITOR . Then choose Visitor Visa (subclass 600). For tourists, this is the equivalent of Form 1419 , except you don’t need to print this out.
• Continue filling out all 20 pages of the form.

What if you start accomplishing the form but can’t complete right then? It’s okay. You can SAVE the changes and continue editing in the future. As long as you SAVE it (and NOT SUBMIT), you can keep on editing the form.

DO NOT SUBMIT THE FORM if you’re not done yet.

3. Submit Supporting Documents.

On your application dashboard, you will find a field where you can upload the required and recommended documents. The key is to submit as many types as you can. Better safe than sorry.

You can see the list of requirements above.

This is what the UPLOAD DOCUMENTS page looks like when applying for a TOURIST STREAM visa.

Some applicants will see an additional EVIDENCE OF THE APPLICANT’S PREVIOUS TRAVEL field.

And this is for BUSINESS STREAM .

That’s it! Once you have submitted your application, you should receive an Acknowledgment of Application Receipt in your email. I got mine on the same day of submission.

From here, it’s gonna be a nerve-racking waiting game.

Update: You may now be requested to visit the VFS office to provide biometrics/fingerprints.

4. Pay the Application Fee.

Online payments are done via credit card only.

The fee is now AUD 145 (PHP 5194) . A credit card surcharge was also collected. (In my case, it was AUD 1.37.)

If you don’t have a credit card, you can ask a family member or a friend who has one. You can also use PayPal and UnionPay.

AUSTRALIAN VISA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long is the processing time for australian visa (tourist or business).

The processing can take as short as 24 hours to as long as a month, depending on your case. The first time I applied, the process took almost a month. I submitted my application on May 9 and received my visa on June 5. This was in 2015.

The second time, it took 7 days. Submitted the application June 21 and got my visa on June 28. My teammates had it shorter. They got theirs in 5 days. Some of my friends got theirs in less than 24 hours. It’s pretty hard to predict.

The third time, it took 8 days. My mom, who was applying for the first time, had hers in 8 days too.

How long is the validity of the Australian visa?

In my case, even though I applied for a 3-week stay, I was granted a visa valid for 3 months. I think that’s the standard length for non-working visas.

How early should I apply for an Australian visa?

Not earlier than 6 months before your trip. In the visa, the last day I can enter Australia was clearly specified: 6 months after the visa was granted. Again, I’m not sure if this is the case for everyone, but that’s what was indicated on mine.

How much money should I have in the bank to get approved?

No one knows exactly. They don’t explicitly say. But to give you an idea for a ballpark figure, the Embassy of France now requires from Schengen visa applicants EUR 120 per day of stay .

My personal rule is P10,000 per day of stay + airfare + cost of accommodations.

What is the Grant Number in the application form?

On Page 3 of the Application Form, you will be asked, “Does this applicant have an Australian Visa Grant Number?”

If it’s your first time applying for an Australian visa, choose NO.

If you’ve been granted a visa before, choose yes and enter the number. You’ll find the Grant Number in the Grant Notification for your previous visa. Here’s where I found the visa number on my previous grant notification.

In the application form, what should I answer to the “Any Significant Date” field?

If there are specific dates when you need to be in Australia, write them down. For example, if you’re attending a wedding, enter the wedding date so they can consider it for the validity of your visa. Same with attending a conference/seminar. Enter the conference date. Likewise, if the main purpose of your trip is to be at a concert, enter the concert date.

If you have no significant date in particular — say, you’re simply sightseeing or touring — you can skip this part.

I’ve done Australian visa application three times now. In my first and third application, I answered NO because I will be sightseeing and my dates were flexible. In my second application, I was flying to Australia to attend a conference, so I entered the date of the event.

Is Australian visa GROUP APPLICATION possible?

Yes. You can create a group on the dashboard (just click on “new group” and then take note of the group code) and then when filling out the application form, at one point you will be asked if it’s part of a group, click YES and choose the group you created or enter the group code.

However, please note that even though you’re part of a group, your application will still be assessed individually. The decision will not be collective. Some of you may be approved, some denied.

I’m traveling with family. Do all of us need to sign up for an Immi account?

NO. One member can apply for the whole family.

I’ve recently done this. I only used my ImmiAccount but created multiple applications using only one Immi account.

Also, according to the Immi website: “Yes. ImmiAccount will let you submit multiple online applications and pay for these applications at the same time. For example, if you and your family are applying for visitor visa applications, one member of the family can create and manage all the applications through their ImmiAccount, and pay for all these applications at once. Payment can be made by credit card in Australian Dollars (AUD) for all online applications submitted through ImmiAccount.”

What to answer to ‘Other Passports or Documents for Travel’ and ‘Other Identity Documents’?

For OTHER PASSPORTS OR DOCUMENTS FOR TRAVEL : If you’re like me who doesn’t own any other passport or travel document, then tick NO.

For OTHER IDENTITY DOCUMENTS : I entered my UMID Number. I also entered my Birth Certificate and used the Registry Number. Not sure if it’s okay to use the registry number but that’s what I did. Haha.

I don’t see any section for TRAVEL HISTORY in my UPLOAD DOCUMENTS page. What should I do?

In my first two times applying for myself, the TRAVEL HISTORY or EVIDENCE OF APPLICANT’S PREVIOUS TRAVEL section was there. When I applied for my mom, who was traveling to Australia for the first time, it was there too. But when I applied for myself for the third time, that section is nowhere in my Upload page.

I’m not sure when or in what instance does this section appear. But when I couldn’t find it when I recently applied, I uploaded the scans of my passport stamps it under the EVIDENCE OF THE FINANCIAL STATUS AND FUNDING FOR VISIT.

I decided to still upload my passport stamps even though they weren’t asking for it this time because I believed this would strengthen my case. I decided to upload it under EVIDENCE OF FINANCIAL STATUS because to me it looked the most appropriate as it also shows that I can afford to travel in general, even in other countries.

I’m being asked to submit Form 956A. What is it?

Form 956A is a document that grants someone else authorization to receive files from the Australian Government. In the Application Form, you will be asked if you have an Authorized Representative who would be receiving documents on your behalf. If you answer YES to this, you will be required to complete and submit Form 956A.

I encountered this form when I was applying for my mother. My mom doesn’t speak or understand English. And being a senior citizen, she doesn’t have an email address and isn’t interested in getting one. Because of this, we decided to have me as the Authorized Representative and receive the documents on her behalf.

Be careful when accomplishing Form 956A. This form is also used to withdraw authorization, so make sure you’re filling out the right sections and skip the withdrawal parts.

Download a copy of Form 956A here!

(Updated: 2019)

I can’t type properly on Form 54 (Family Composition). What to do?

Use Adobe Acrobat Reader.

The form has Chinese and English pages. Don’t worry about the Chinese page. It will mirror everything you write on the English page.

I can’t sign Form 54 (Family Composition). How do I add my signature?

If you’re using Mac, add your signature using the Annotate feature on the PREVIEW app.

If you’re using Windows, use Adobe Acrobat Reader. It also has the same Add Signature function.

I didn’t have to print it and scan it. I just affixed my electronic signature. I’m not sure if this is the right way to do it, but that’s what I did for my application, my mother’s, and my friends’. All of our applications were approved.

What should I upload in the section called ‘Exceptional Reasons for Extended Stay in Australia as a Visitor (Beyond 12 months)?’

This didn’t apply to me so I skipped this. I didn’t upload anything.

If you’re visiting Australia for only a few days, I think this part is not applicable.

Can I apply for a multiple entry Australian visa?

Yes. On the application form, you will be asked whether you need to enter Australia more than once for that trip. If you want a multiple entry visa, declare it, but make sure you can justify and prove it.

Can I be granted a multiple entry visa even if I only applied for single entry?

YES. In my most recent application, I applied for single entry but was granted a multiple entry visa. I also have friends who had the same experience.

Can I be granted a multiple entry visa even if I’m applying for the first time?

YES. I took care of the applications of my friends and my mother, who were all first-timers. They were all granted multiple entry visas even though they had never been to Australia before.

My second time applying was funny. That time, I applied with friends who were all first timers. I was the only one in our group who had been to Australia before. When the results were released, I was the only one who had a single entry visa. Everyone else was a first timer but was granted a multiple entry visa. Sometimes, it’s really hard to predict.

What are the reasons why my application would be denied?

• You can’t prove that you intend to return to the Philippines . You probably don’t have a stable job at this point or are newly employed or newly resigned, and it’s giving the impression that you plan on staying longer than your declared duration.
• You can’t prove that you can financially support yourself on this trip. You or your sponsor may not be in good financial standing.
• You seem to not know the details of your trip . You may have appeared as though you’re not really doing what you declared you would be doing, which may raise some red flags.
• Your purpose in Australia is unclear . This is why it is best to be specific when you’re detailing the reasons for your visit.

More information here: REASONS FOR VISA REJECTION

What to answer to the part of the form about NON-ACCOMPANYING MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY UNIT?

On page 9 of the application form, you’ll be asked: “Does the applicant have family members of their family unit not travelling to Australia who are not Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents?”

According to the Australian Immigration website, a family unit is defined as a partner (married or de facto) and a dependent child below 23 years old.

If you’re single with no kids, just tick NO.

If you have a spouse or de facto partner or child, then choose YES and fill out the form that appears.

Siblings (brother, sister), parents (mother, father) and in-laws are not covered by this.

This is different from Form 54 (Family Composition). On Form 54, you need to include your parents and siblings. But on the the Page 9 of Application Form, the family unit refers to only the partner and dependent children.

Do the documents have to be notarized?

When I applied in 2018, nothing in the list of requirements indicated that the documents have to be notarized. I didn’t have ours notarized. But our application still got approved.

You’ll know when you begin your application. It’s usually indicated on the application dashboard.

Does Australian Immigration still stamp passports? Can I request for an entry stamp?

By default, Australia no longer stamps passports. But according to some of our readers, you can request for it and they will give your passport a precious stamp. All you need to do is ask.

However, on my recent trip to Melbourne, I tried asking but the officer said they really don’t stamp passports anymore and that it’s not possible.

Where do I attach or upload the cover letter?

In my case, I uploaded it under Evidence of Planned Tourism Activities > Others.

To whom should I address the bank certificate, cover letter, and employment certificate?

I addressed it to:

Australian Embassy Manila Level 23-Tower 2 RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue 1200

Not sure if that’s right, but that’s what I did.

What does an Australian Visa look like?

Here’s what the Australian Visa looks like when you receive it online. It doesn’t get attached to the passport. Just bring a copy and show the Immigration Officer when you arrive:

Are medical or health exams required when applying for an Australian visa?

There is no clear-cut answer to that, as it depends on a lot of factors. But you can easily find out if you need to undergo health examinations. Here’s how:

• Log in to your ImmiAccount.
• Go to your application. Find the Applications Status section.
• Tap on the ‘View health assessment’ link.

If you need to undergo medical or health examinations, you will see a link called ‘ Organise health examinations ‘. If there is no link, no need to have health exam.

If I submit this, this and this, what are the chances of approval?

It’s pretty hard to tell even if you send me a list of all the documents you plan to submit. There are way too many factors at play. Nothing and no one can guarantee approval. It depends on how strict or how lenient the visa office evaluating your application is. So yep, luck plays a part too.

There are cases wherein even when the applicant has great travel history, employment status and finances, they still come out of the process visa-less. It’s really impossible to say.

If you have questions or something to add to this post, holler in the comments section below! :)

Last update: 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣•4️⃣•6️⃣ First up: 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣6️⃣•7️⃣•1️⃣3️⃣

*Featured image purchased from Shutterstock

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This is going to help us so much with sorting out our Aussie visas! Thanks for the informative post guys, much appreciated.

Good day to u!

May i know how to do the visa payment via credit card? Is eastwest credit card acceptable? Is there an account where we can do the payment? Shall we go to nearest bank and pay directly? I hope you can guide me on this. We are all set with our documents, payment is next. Thanks in advance.

Hi Yoshke, Nag apply ako tourist visa and used a travel agency to help my documments but sad as if daming mali.May friend ako na nag sponsor and he also submit documents but na denied pa rin pero accept ko na may marsming nali sa documents.Now balak ko mag apply ulit and seguraduhing tama na ang mga submit ko documents.But still need somebody to assist me.Maari mo ba ako matulungan o may marekomenda ka ba to assist my papers.Pls.help

Hi Trinidad, di po kasi kami nagpoprovide ng visa assistance outside this blog post. Lahat po ng alam namin, andito na sa blog post na ito. Try contacting Gazelle Travel and Tours or Constellation Travel po.

Hello po ok lng po ba kung ung fiance ko ang ialagay ko as sponsor of funds at attached mga docs at statement of account nya? Kasama ko po xa ppnta ng australia para bisitahin ung kapatid nya.

Hi Yoshk, Ok lang ba na kahit first name and last name lang yung nilagay mo sa visa application mo? Hindi ba yun affected pag ma grant na yung visa at ma check sa immigration?

Hello po, need pa po ba ng bank statement if may mag fully sponsor sayo and will provide the proof of funds, accomodation and assets for you?

Hi Ching, yung tanda ko, di ko rin nilagay yung middle name kasi first and last lang naman yung hiningi.

Hello po, I’m planning to apply for a tourist visa but I only have an online home-based teaching job. I can’t provide an ITR because I wasn’t registered. Will that be okay?

It’s a risk but if you can provide other proof of income and supporting docs, pwede pa rin naman.

Hello po, ask ko lang po..what If unemployed ka then may small business ka nmn, pwede po ba isubmit ang business permit kung wlang coe?

Pwede naman po pero best po if meron din po kayong BIR registration and ITR.

Hi, thankful ako nun nakita ko itong informations na na ishare mo sa pagkuha nang tourists visa as au .. ask ko Lang kailan pwede na mag apply nang visa uli mag eexpire na tourist visa this November 2,2019, bago ba mag expire or after ? Thank you ..

Hi po. Nakagawa na po ako ng Immi account (incomplete since hinihintay ko pa yung COE fr employer), tanong ko lang if gagawa ba ako ng another account for my daughter (12 yrs old)? Or kasama na sya sa application ko? Please help. Appreciate it if you can reply to my inquiry. Thank you in advance.

You can use the same IMMI account but start a separate application.

Nasa FAQs din po ito sa article. Number 8.

Hi Yoshke, invite kami ng mga kapatid ko na Aus Citizen na, last remaining kaming magkapatid at nanay namin dito sa Pinas, My sister and I are unemployed in our 30’s never had a job and mother is 75 na. ano chances namin to get a tourist visa?

Naku, di ko po alam. Mahirap po for me to assess kung ano yung chances. :S

Saan ko po dapat i upload ang invitation letter? Thanks for the answer.

Hi po.. ask ko lang if need ang medical/health examination? May portion po kasi sa immi acct asking for health exam for australia visa?

HI ANO PO NILAGAY NYO? YES OR NO? CURRENLTY APPLYING THE VISA RIGHT NOW PO

Hi Sir, ask ko lang po dun sa other identity documents kasi need po ng identification number if birth certificate po ung pipiliin. Saan po ba hahanapin ung Identifacation number dito sa psa ko? Thanks po.

Hi, what do i put on the itinerary if I plan to apply for multiple entry? Kasi my only purpose is to visit fiance as many times as possible. Thanks.

Hi Mariyah, yung nilagay ko is ung Registry Number. Di ko alam kung tama pero yun ung nilagay ko, na-approve naman ako.

Hi po! Nag-aapply po ako as Tourist and first time ko po ‘to at wala po talaga akong Idea and your blog really helps po, pero ask ko lang po for the Itinerary since wala po pong approval sa visa ko pano po ako makakapag gawa ng itinerary if hindi pa po ako nakakapag book ng flight and accommodation kasi I saw yours po and meron na po kayo agad like Arrival and so on.

Hi! I am a freelancer, you think it will affect para ma grant ng visa? I have travelled a lot naman na pero same countries lang had 3 expired passport most are full of stamps. Wala ako ITR and certifcate, anu pwede gawin? I am in the middle of my application kung san ia-attached ang mga kelangan na docs. I was following your step by step. Planning to go there this July. I will be staying with my Australian friend. Dunno what to put in my iti. Hope you could help. Thanks!

Try submitting other proof of employment like copy of contract, etc. Pwede ka ring humingi ng letter from your clients certifying na meron kang engagement with them.

Hi Kathleen,

Itinerary means your travel plan. You don’t need flight and hotel bookings to have a plan. Plano mo pa lang. Parang schedule na balak mo.

Hi good evening. What kind requaments for australian visa?

Hi! Im applying now and i cant find the proof of travel history part. My page isnt d same as the screenshot u provided. Do u know where should i add proof of my travel history? Thanks!

Hi! I would like to know about Australian Form 1229 and the documentation needed to request a tourist VISA for minors of 18 when the other parent is not traveling. Is it enough to present the other parent’s form signed or is it required to have and affidavit or a court order ? Thanks

Same as mine….I didn”t find the proof of travel history part which I think can help also for the granting of VISA

Same as mine, wala din dashboard or options to upload documents. Please help. Thanks.

What is a notarized NSO birth certificae? Is it the yellow green document?

Also, what is a notarized passport info page? Is it a certified true copy that should be requested from the DFA?

Yep, but I remember, we didn’t have ours notarized but they accepted it. (Updating the post now. Sorry for the trouble.)

The passport info page is the first page of the passport. The one with your picture. :)

Hello po, I just want to ask if they are asking you biometrics finger scan if you applied immi online for filipino passport holder, after you submmitted po your requirements online?

Hi Joana, ako, never nila hiningan ng biometrics. Pero may mga alam akong applicants na hiningan. You’ll know if need mo pag nagstart ka ng application.

Do I need Show money even if I Have invitation letter from my Fiance?

Hi! I need your help i was refused by the Australian embassy and they told me not enough pero i forgot na may mag sponsor sakin all the expenses and accommodation are free. So i re apply again but the thing i cannot proceed again my application kasi may choices don regarding sa relationship with the person who will support while staying in Australia , walang friend choices ang better way ba na ilagay don defacto partner. Please help naman. Thank you so much

Hello Maricel boyfriend ko ang nagsponsor sa akin,ang nilagay ko sa relationship is FIANCE na approve naman tourist Visa ko.

Hi Estella, we are the same case my fiance is inviting me pero need ko ba ng show money or bank statement account kahit sya mag sponsor saken lahat?

Hi Maricel, I haven’t tried applying as an invited visitor so I don’t know how I could help. :S

Saan ko po dapat i upload ang invitation letter? Thanks for the answer. Do I need to submit a copy of my birth certificate or UMID if I put in Other indentity documents

1. Pag invited, usually may field sa Upload Documents page na “Invitation from family, friends, or organization.”

2. Hindi naman sa pagkakaalala ko.

Your blog is very helpful and easy to follow,lahat ng tips nyo sinunod ko,and I am so happy I’m granted a tourist visa

Congratulations, Estella! And thanks for taking the time to return to this blog and share your experience. :)

Hello sir, how can I pay po thru credit card? almost done na po kasi ako and yung payment di ko po alam kung paano isettle. Thank you po!

Yep, credit card din po ako nagbayad.

how po? Sorry po have no Idea talaga.

After isubmit, automatically ireredirect ka nung website. if di automatic, may link din sa Immi dashboard.

May I ask po saan po dapat i attach yung birth certificate dun sa immi account.Thank you.

Yung saken, sa Evidence of Family Composition ko nilagay.

Good Day po. need pa po ba ng bank statement if may mag fully sponsor sayo and will provide the proof of funds, accomodation and assets for you? At panu din po pag walang maipakita po na certificate of employee kaka resign ko lang po kasi.. Salamat po

Di po ako ganun kafamiliar sa requirements kapag sponsored ung trip. :S

Hi! Ive read through your article on AU visa and was wondering if having a Japan visa (recently expired) would be a plus?

Yes, it can help you get better chances, but no guarantee.

hi there, is it mandatory to notarized bio page and travel docs for australian visa?

Just a follow-up question, do you mean that this is just a photocopy of the first page of the passport and then notarized and scanned?

Scanned copy of your passport will do. That’s what I did in my application and they accepted it.

HI how much is the minimum funds for the bank statement? Do you have any idea? Cheers.

Depends on your situation: if you are self-funded or sponsored. Assuming that you are funding the trip, there’s no definite $$$ for as long as you can prove that you are financially capable and you have a good financial standing (bank acct should be atleast 3months old, stable source of income etc.). What I did was, I created an itinerary and estimated the cost of the entire trip. That should give you an idea of what amount should you have in your bank. :)

If aussie citizen will sponsored my whole trip do i still a bank account??please need help..thanks

Pani po if you will provide bank statement but not enough fund?

Hi, how about if someone’s going to sponsor you, with all yhe expenses such as tickets, accommodation and cost of living during visit period do you still need to show a bank statement? Or just the letter of invitation from your sponsor? Thanks!

Hi, Do you know the minimum or ideal amount of funds needed in the bank for the ‘show money’? Cheers.

hi, im over 18 and my dad is my primary source of income. ive never had a job before. how can i present that on the application. also, the website advises the documents added to the app must be in .bmp format, what kind of format were your documents (birthcertificate, passport)? thank you.

You can state that your trip is funded by your dad. He needs to provide proof of income, etc. They allow pdf and jpeg as well.

hi, i m a foreigner taking my masters degree in phillipines. i want to apply for australian tourist visa to visit my sister in australia during summer break. what additional documents do i need to submit? thank u po.

If she is sponsoring you, she has to write an invitation letter, copy of her passport, proof of assets (title of house and bank statements). Given that you are a student, I would suggest asking your sister to sponsor the whole trip or make it appear on your visa application.

how did you receive the visa? Are they gonna mail it to you? Or just email and you can print it? Thanks

Email then print. :)

Hi. Is there a chance that I will be given a visa if my reason is to only travel for a couple of days in aussie but will be flying to another country with a multiple entry? My proof of evidence will only be the visa of that country and PH employment certificate (given that I recently resigned)?

There is. Just make sure to create a comprehensive cover letter and include the details of your flights.

Hello can I already book a ticket even without the Visa. I enrolled in a short class that will last for 1wk only. Should I also present the invoice ?

Hello. I just want to confirm that the tourist visa is valid for 1 year upon approval. Thank you.

Depends on the visa granted to you. I think, the minimum is 3 months validity (single or multiple entry). If you will apply for a 12 month visa, I think you have to undergo medical exam.

Hi! Can i get a clarification… so the visa does not have a definite period, like from June 20,2017-August 20,2017? It will just say that the visa is good for so and so number of months? I am planning to apply for one soon, but would like to travel in December pa. Thanks!

Hello! My passport expires on December 2019, can I still apply for a visa to Australia for a conference in December but before the exact date of expiration.

Hello. Is it okay to not present ITR since I’ve just resigned from my job. And AU will just be a stopover since Im going to another country..

Hi, did they get your biometrics or something?

hello! should i just scan my passport including my past travels or do i have to photocopy it, notarized and then scan and upload on their website? thanks in advance.

I have the same question, is it necessary for the documents to be notarized? Or are colored scans good enough? thank you!

Hi Angela, when we applied, the list of requirements indicated that the passport has to be notarized. We didn’t have ours notarized, though. But our application still got approved. :)

hi, is it necessary for the documents to be notarized as of this year, 2019?

hello….do we need to get a travel insurance as well? is it a must/requirement?

for the bank statement, how far historically should you show? 6 months? 1 year?

The one I submitted showed 6 months. :)

Hi po! I’m a Grade 12 student. And I do have relatives in Australia. Ano po ba ang ibang evidence that can make sure na ma grant ang tourist visa? By the way, sila po mag sponsor sa akin. Thank you☺

Hi Chabelita. I’m not that familiar with the requirements for visiting a resident in Australia as my experience is restricted to tourist and business.

Hi Sir Yoshke,

My brother is applying for a tourist visa to join a competition in Aus. He is going to use my bank statement since he has no existing bank acct as of the moment. I was just wondering if you would know what other supporting documents do we need to submit just to be sure it gets accepted?

Hi Camille, how old is your brother? Is he still a student?

Hi! Your blog post is very helpful, though I have few more questions! Haha When should one apply for a tourist visa? Can I apply 6 mos in advance or they have a rule that the earliest is 3 mos before like Schengen visa? I’ll be flying on Oct 28th this year, and I’m not really sure if I should book now or wait in August. I’m scared If I apply now valid pa din kaya visa ko sa october. Thank you so much :)

Hi Eleni! The visa we received must be used within 6 months of issuance. We applied in June and we needed to enter Australia before December.

Hi! If I’ll apply for a family visa (group of 5), should I create an ImmiAccount individually? Also, I’ll be flying on Nov this year and my passport will expire Feb 2018, can I apply for a visa now kahit sa September 2017 pa yung schedule for renewal ko?

Hi Yosh, can I use a bank certificate instead of a bank statement? Thank you :)

Yep, you can.

Hi! I will be applying for an Australian visa next week. I am a student and okay lang ba if I show my bank certificate instead of bank statements as proof on how I can fund for my trip?

Hi! I will be applying for an Australian visa next week. I am a student and okay lang ba if I show my bank certificate instead of bank statements as proof of how I can fund for my trip? Also, how much should I show if I will be staying for 1 week?

I guess this comment is a week late, sorry. If you’re a student, how can you afford to go on a trip? Technically, you have no source of income. I would suggest asking your parents to declare sponsorship. Bank statement or certificate will do. As for the money, consider which state are you visiting. Some costs higher than the others. Check the hotel rates, activities you want to try and transportation. Make sure you have an extra money in case of emergencies.

About the bank statement, did you just took a photo of your hard copy bank statement? Or is it okay to just take a screenshot of my online banking account?

You can request this one from your bank.

Thank you for the helpful blog! One question, though. The documents need to be scanned or can we just take photos of those and submit?

Thanks and appreciate your response!

For as long as you can take a clear photo of the document, that should be alright. I would recommend scanning tho.

With regards to required documents to be attached, there’s no limit per file?.. or is it required to have a minimum 500kb per file?..

thanks for the info, but can i apply tourist visa without the bank statement? my aunt will shoulder all the expenses? thanks and I didn’t have a job can it be possible?

That is possible. If your aunt will cover all your expenses, your bank statement is not a problem. But if you have any amount in the bank, I would suggest that you include it no matter how little it is. As for the job, well, some people get their visa application denied because they have weak PH ties or not enough reason that you’ll go back to the PH.

Hi, I am planning to apply for tourist visa. I am currently staying in Singapore. Do I need to go for biometrics collection even though I would apply online? Thanks

Hello…..i just want to ask if same on mine ..i dont have any property or own a Business like having business permit…..i have only friend there in australia and hes the one paying for all ….what should i do…hope theres someone give some advice on me.

Hi hope u cud help me…. i am applying online and i am in the portion of attaching the files…. i scanned the documents using adobe and saved it in the icloud drive of my ipad…. however, i could not access or click on the files in my icloud drive to attach these… what could be the reason?…. i used the same procedure and files for my new zealand visa application and it was fine…. thank you in advance!

This blog really helped us alot. Thanks and Just want to share my sisters experience with the Australian Tourist Visa in case someone has the same situation as hers.

Profile : 50 years old, employed, married with 2 kids, NO OUT OF THE COUNTRY TRAVEL experience, w/ invitation letter from an australian citizen sister in law, all travel expenses sponsored by our family business.

Docs submitted 1) invitation letter w/ passport of sister in law, brother and marriage certificate 2) bank statement and certificate (personal and payroll) 3) coe and approved leave 4) marriage and birth certificate 5) notarized secretary certificate by our family business stating all travel expenses will be covered 6) dti, mayors permit, financial statement, sec registration of the family business 7) passport biopage 8) form 54 9) cover letter and itinerary 10) uploaded also under evidence of travel a letter explaining why my sister has not been out of the country (application will not proceed to the next step without any file on this portion)

Submitted and paid online last Saturday – Jul 20 2019 and got the visa grant today, Jul 26. Single entry – one year.

Hi, can you send me a sample letter you sent explaining sister does not have travel history? thanks

Thanks for sharing, Lester!

Can i ask you a favor to please send me an example of cover letter and itinerary you submit when you applied. Here is my email [email protected] thank you in advanced and thanx for this wonderful blog you help so much specially for the first time traveller. Have a nice weekend and God Bless I will wait for ur reply.. thanx again

good evening, can i ask po kung paano process po ng pag bayad ng visa fee for tourist visa sub 600.. i am planning to apply my visa by next week.. thank you.

by the way you can email me your answer: [email protected]

thank you in advance

Hello, I just want to ask because I don’t have any bank statements or any account is it okay because all my expenses will be shoulder to my Aussie boyfriend and his family, what should I do? Thanks or you can email me at @[email protected]

Hi! Thanks for the useful info. Anyway, I’d like to ask if having a medical examination is strictly required in all cases? Will my application be denied if I didn’t take a medical examination? I’m just staying there for 6 days, yet the examination will cost me 6000 bucks. Thanks!

Hi there! I’m applying for tourist visa online. Where do I attach my passport size picture? Thanks

Hi . ask lang ako if makakakuha ba akong ng visa sa Australia ? Unemployed po kasi akong as in sa bahay lang ? E yung friend ko sa Australia yinayaya akong magbaskyon ng 10days? Pero diko Alan paano ako makakakuha ng visa? Wala din akong pera sa bank account na malaki? Maibibigay ko lang is I.d and birth certificate … Pero yung nag invite sken na friends ko sagot nya lahat expenses ko dun roundtrip ticket ko as in lahat. Paano po ba ?? Help naman po…. Reply pls.

Hi Sir! I need your advice po Im planning to lodge my tourist visa to Oz soon. I’m self-employed ngayon, but i have yet to complete my business registration papers. Wala naman po kayang problem if ever newly-issued lang yung isa-submit kong documents? Also, aside from DTI and Mayor’s Permit, what other documents ang pwede pa po iattach? Thanks!!

Hi Fhemie, I think it would raise questions. But if you have other ways to prove that you’re earning (invoices, ITR, etc.), those would help.

Hi. I’m pretty much ok with my application. But they’re requiring past travel documents to be attached. The last time i travelled out of the country was back in 2010 to HK. Do you think it’s really required? Also I was declined for a US visa in 2010 as well. Should I declare that in my application?

Hi Chris! You can submit your HK trip even if it was in 2010.

Regarding the US visa refusal, if they ask, you should tell the truth. (Not sure if they ask in the form.)

HI! applying visa next week, i would like to ask if you could help me or can i use your submitted cover letter as a pattern? And can u share your itinerary and hotel?

Thanks alot!

Hii…..i would to know how to apply the visa… I born and lived in Malaysia but I am a Philippines pasport holder… how can i fill the visa requirement if i dont have Philippines birth certificate..Nso…bank statement and so so on

Is this process applicable to all filipinos regardless where are you working right now (curretly working in mid east)??? Thank you

Hi Qirk. I think so. But not sure. If I remember correctly, they will be asking questions about your location on the IMMI website. (It’s been a while so I’m not sure I’m remembering it right.)

Hi just want to ask if ok ba na isubmit ko yung 2 nso cert. Of my 2 kids just to make sure na i’ll come back? Wala kc akong work but i have credit cards extention of my mother in law in the states?

Hi! I honestly don’t know the answer to this. :(

Hi, how long did you wait for your visa to get approved?

Hi Yoshke! I hope you can help me. I have a question kasi. I’m filling out an online application form and I’m being asked what is the relationship between me and the one who will support my travel. Since my boyfriend is the one sponsoring my trip I was hoping I could choose “friend” to best describe the relationship. I could’t find friend on the drop down list. Do you know what could be the problem? Did I miss anything? This is page 13/20 on the form. Thank you!

Hi Koleen, I honestly don’t know the answer to this. :(

It’s okay. Another question, is it okay if I submit 3 recent payslips instead of ITR and one bank certificate to establish that I am working and have a personal savings? Pang additional evidence lang. Thank you!

Hi po! May I ask ano po inilagay nyo sa sponsor part? I also have the same case. My bf will be sponsoring me. But there’s no bf on the lists. Thanks po sa reply :)

Hi koleen…where u able to get australian visa? Hows the process going? I want to ask what relationship did u put on ur application? Thanks.

You Should specify as “boyfriend” dear.

Hi yoshke, Thank u for this useful blog…I want to ask if how much the minimum amount of money to show in the bank statement? How long u’ve got ur approval letter? And lastly, is it okay to put there 2weeks planning to stay in australia but my real intention is to stay for 2months? Would it matter? Since i didn’t saw ur visa letter the valid date Pls reply….thanks! Cheers!

Hi Julie! Here are my answers.

how much the minimum amount of money to show in the bank statement? —- I dunno. They don’t explicitly say. But to give you an idea, the embassy of France requires 120 euro per day from Schengen applicants. Maybe you can use that as basis to get a ballpark figure?

How long u’ve got ur approval letter? — Almost a month. But this was in 2015. It’s much shorter these days. Some get theirs in 1-2 days.

Is it okay to put there 2weeks planning to stay in australia but my real intention is t stay for 2months? —- We always encourage being truthful in visa applications. But we applied for a 3-week stay and were granted a visa valid for 3 months.

I got mine in 7 days. Quite fast (for me). Thank for the tips. :)

Is biometrics needed?

Hi there! Would like to ask if screenshots ng credit card and bank statements pwede as attachments? Thank you

Screenshots? I dunno…. Parang hindi since it can be easily altered.

can…basta clear and shots

Hi! Is it necessary to have all documents notarized?

Hi, perhaps someone may be able to help me with this, I am an Australian, previously working and living in Malaysia and still currently residing , or staying there, (in Malaysia) for an extended holiday on a tourist visa. I wish to take my girlfriend, who is a Filipina and who is currently working in Malaysia (as a maid) though, not my maid, on a trip down to Australia. Obviously I will be financing the trip and all her expenses will be covered by me. Does anyone know from perhaps a similar situation whether there maybe difficulties in securing the visa.

Peter, better inquire or ask for assistance with your embassy or consular office in Malaysia.

Hi! I would be applying for tourist visa this month. I’m planning to lodge my application online without going thru an agency. I’ve scanned all the requirements. May i know what specific documents need to be notarized? Thanks!

Hi Rus! There was a note that the passport copy had to be notarized when we applied. Not sure if that’s still true now. You’ll know when you begin your application. It’s usually indicated on the application dashboard.

What if I have Australian sponson who is not living im Australia? I have Australian bf who wants me to travel with him to Australia for a holiday.

Hi Aileen. Naku, we can only speak from experience so hindi namin alam pag ganyan ung case. :(

Hi. Can i apply from UK? (im a tourist here)

Hi Gie. Yes you can. The application is 100% done online (unless you’re summoned).

Hello, ask ko lang po kung paano ma.affix yong signature ng applicant through online application. Do they ask for medical if 3 or 6 months holiday only?

May I ask if to whom should I address the cover letter if I’ll be applying online?

Not sure if that’s right, but that’s what I submitted. :)

Hi Yoshke, this article is very helpful! Thank you for writing this.

Anyway, I have a few questions. I’m planning to visit my aunt in Australia in 2019 with my husband and baby (less than 2 years old). I’m working online as a freelancer and my only proof of income is my PayPal account – I get paid weekly via PayPal. Do you think I can I use that as my proof of income? I don’t have BIR yet. Just a note, my husband has a stable office job with good salary and I have a bank account with quite a good amount of savings, almost 1M. Do you think there’s a chance that we will be approved?

Hi Liza, since your trip won’t be until 2019, you still have plenty of time to work on your BIR documents. This will make your chances better. :)

Liza, your hubby should be the Primary Applicant.

Yoshke, 1) will it be individual application in cases for family with kids? or husband and wife? or there is group application? 2) if individual, there is a chance that one gets approved and other/s not.

One member can apply for the whole family.

According to the Immi website: Yes. ImmiAccount will let you submit multiple online applications and pay for these applications at the same time. For example, if you and your family are applying for visitor visa applications, one member of the family can create and manage all the applications through their ImmiAccount, and pay for all these applications at once. Payment can be made by credit card in Australian Dollars (AUD) for all online applications submitted through ImmiAccount.

Question po regarding this…kasama ko po kasi i-apply ang 2kids ko.may immi accnt npo ako…pero parang wla pong group application sa mga option.kaya nag individual po ako.pede po ba new application para sa 2kids ko..using my same immi accnt.naguguluhan po kasi ako.tnx po.truely appreciated po sa reply

Hi Liza, as far as I know, you can make multiple applications using one Immi account. You can also create a group on the dashboard (just click on “new group” and then take note of the group code) and then when filling out the application form, at one point you will be asked if it’s part of a group, click yes and enter the group code.

Hi. Just want to ask po if ok lng ba ilagay names ng friends to visit/contact in australia? Should i still ask for a letter of invitation from them or any proof that i know them? This is a self funded trip po pero pano po kung nag offer din po ng accomodation sa place nila what document po ang ibbgay sa embassy? I hope you can help me po. Thank you so much!

Hi Lei, if you’ll be staying at a friend’s house, it would be best to submit a letter of invitation talaga. Best if in the letter, maexplain ung details ng trip and how you know each other. And yes, you can also submit proof of your relationship.

Hi! Ive read through your article on AU visa and was wondering if having a Japan visa (recently expired) would be a plus? Coz I’m planning to reapply for a Japan visa as well, for the multiple entry.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Yes, it can help you get better chances, but no guarantee. :)

Planning to take my parents to Oz. Never been there but I want to go with them. Problem is, they don’t have any proof of income, not even bank accounts. I am working abroad and of course would sponsor them as we travel. How do I apply for them?

Also, is medical exam required upon application?

Hope to hear from you! Thanks.

No, medical exam isn’t required.

How old are your parents? Are they senior citizens na?

Hi Po, been following your posts at dami ko nakukuha tips sa travels ko and thank you so much for that. We have plan to visit Australia come July 2018 with my husband, our 2 yo son and 2 of my friends. I am currently working overseas at yung husband ko nasa Pinas ngbusiness. May business permit naman. yung questions ko po; 1. Separate immigaccount po ba yung sa husband ko? Di ba kami pwede magfamily application? At paano yung sa anak ko. 2. Kaka-start lng kasi nung business last year, so it will appear sa ITR nya na masyadong mababa lang binayaran nya. Makakaapekto po ba ito sa application nya? Meron naman syang DTI, Mayor’s Permit, Business Permit, sufficient naba ito or need pa talaga ITR? 3. May invitation kami from an Australian friend (former workmate -Pinay wife and also a good friend of ours) and we will be staying in their house in Perth, but after Perth mag-Sydney kami before going back home sa Philippines. Wala ba maging problema if ang invitation sa Perth lang? 5. What about my 2 other friends, separate po ba application nila? 6. Mga magkano po dapat nasa saving account for sure approval for 1 week trip to Australia?

1. Group applications are allowed under 1 ImmiAccount lang.

2. Hindi naman required ang ITR. It will be helpful kung meron pero di sya required-required. Since married kayo, I think okay lang, explain mo na lang in a letter na you’re working abroad and your husband stays at home to take care of your son and a business, and that this is a family trip.

3. Up to you if you want to mention the Sydney part. Ideally, you have to declare that, but if you do, it would be great if you can also submit your day-to-day itinerary and hotel booking in Sydney.

5. Not sure if okay lang isama sa group application pag hindi relatives. I haven’t tried.

6. No one knows. They don’t say that explicitly.

Hi. Thank you po sa response. Follow-up question lang po. In the online form meron po question about National Identity Card. “Does this applicant have a national identity card?” Ano po ba ibig sabihin nito? Ibang country po na na identiry card? Thanks.

I don’t remember na pero I think NA lang nilagay ko dun kasi wala naman tayong national ID.

Yung Form 54 – Family Composition ay required din po ba?

Thank you again. One last question po. What about this question po? Does the applicant have any members of their family unit not travelling to Australia who are not Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents?

Thank you po. What about this question? Non-accompanying members of the family unit Does the applicant have any members of their family unit not travelling to Australia who are not Australian citizens or Australian permanent residents?

Pasensya na pero hind ko kasi macomprehend yung question.

May I ask where can I reserve my flight? Thanks.

You can try this: http://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/06/flight-hotel-reservations-visa-application/

Your blog is very helpful. I used your guides sa mga trips ko abroad. Question ko lang po about Australian Visa through online application. Since walang visa stamp/sticker na bibigay ang embassy, what if let say mag apply ako ng VISA for Schengen, how will they know na nakarating na ako sa Australia? Confused lang ako. Thanks in advance po sa pagsagot.

They will stamp your passport upon entering Australia naman. :)

And you can also submit a copy of the visa (the letter stating you’ve been granted a visa) when you apply for Schengen visa. :)

Pls update this post, as Australia no longer stamp passport upon entry nor exit . The only evidence of your Oz travel is copy of your boarding pass and ofcourse photos.

Hi! Yup, thanks for bringing this up. I just arrived from Australia last weekend and yeah, they don’t stamp entry or exit anymore.

I yoshke! Thank you for the blog. The family and i are planning on a trip to melbourne for my cousin’s wedding this october. May question lang po ako, invitations are already in order with my name as part of the entourage. In my passport meron akong “Ma. Elizabethl.” Pero sa NSO brth cert ko wala yung “Ma.”. ok la g ba if i submit along with my NSO birth cert yung baptismal cert and a notarized document of one and the same person? Thnak you for your reply.

Naku, di ko po alam kapag ganyan. :(

Hi everyone

Does anyone here have applied AU Tourist visa through VFS?

Hi po, My first travel was in Macau and HK. I am planning to travel again internationally in Australia using itinerary MNL-SIN-AU and going back to Manila to celebrate my birthday. But I don’t have any relative there in AU, can I ask what is second option in supporting documents for LOI? Please reply. Ty!

If you don’t know anyone in Australia and you’re going there as a tourist, you don’t need to submit an LOI. If it doesn’t apply to you, don’t provide that doc.

Please reply ty po

Maraming Salamat po, ano po kaya pwede Ko isubmit instead? Pwede po kaya yung mga itineraries na pupuntahan Ko na mga tourist spots? Please reply po.

I’m not sure if you’ve read the post properly.

If you’re not visiting anyone, you don’t need to provide a letter of invitation.

And yes, you need to submit your daily itinerary if you’re applying as a tourist. It’s in the list of requirements I provided above. Please read.

Thank you po clear na po ngayon hehe GodBless Us :))))

No prob! :) Good luck with your application! :)

Hi! I’m just wondering, do the documents have to be notarized or certified before submitting? I’m a bit confused because on their website it says: “Certified copies of the biographical pages of the current passport” “Certified copies of birth certificate” I don’t know what they mean by certified.

I’m about to lodge my application, but this suddenly caught my attention. Thank you in advance for answering! :)

I just want to ask, Where will i submit the documents ? aside from the UPLOADED DOCUMENTS., should i also need to get an appointment and submit the documents at VFS office Makati, after i fill-out my immiaccount?

Hi Kim. Not sure I understand your question. The application I explained above is done completely online. No need to schedule an appointment. All requirements have to be uploaded to the Immi website.

What other documents are you referring to?

My sister along with her husband and children is planning to apply australian visa online as a group, pwede b akong sumabay s group application nya?

Hi Red, ang alam ko, pwede. :)

Hi! I read your article before lodging my application online, it helped me prepared for it. I just received the good news (just now!) that my visa application has been granted! I got it after 12days of waiting, 1-yr multiple entry, 3mos/entry. Thanks!

Hi Gab! may I ask, did you specifically state na you’re planning to go back to aus or requested for a multiple entry visa?

Congrats! Did you lodge your application online? I am still waiting for my results and hopefully I’ll get a response soon.

Congrats, Gab! Enjoy Oz! :)

Thanks! Your blog has been helpful in all my visa applications ^^,

I read your article and I would like to ask po, My boyfriend sent me an invitation letter which his intend for me to travel is on May 1, which is today, However hind ko pa na lodge on time sa immiaccount ko kasi po nasa province ako and ang internet coverage is very slow sometimes wala po, Can i still lodge it kahit and naka lagay sa invitation is May 1 and most probably malodge ko lahat ng documents i think bukas? please help. Thank you.

Hi Anno, baka you can get another letter from your boyfriend. I think you can still lodge it naman but it just might raise some questions tapos mag-start ng doubt.

And also this is my second time napo, first nag ask ako ng help from travel agency and i was granted single entry, then i want to try this time online application kasi ang mahal po sa agency 25K, please help. salamat po.

It may be too late to answer but for other people’s reference, my cousin’s invitation was dated in Feb but I lodged my application in April :) [It’s just one of the many documents I submitted], visa application was granted.

Hi Gab –

ask ko lang po kasi nag apply na ako one time for tourist visa and i got refuse this is thru agency , even if i have an invitation letter coming from my bf in aussie, my question is ano po bang dapat gawin kasi po plan ko magapply sana how long do i have to wait to re apply ? and ano po dapat ko ipresent ulit? same po ba before na pinresent ko? kasi natatakot ako na baka madenied na naman , how much po is the minimum amount sa bank kahit may sponsor ka? ok lang po ba sa online na ilagay ko boyfriend ko sya? and do i need to submit po ba yung pics namen together? Please help me ndenied yung visa ko nung May 2018 —

Thanks po sa tutulong

Hi Yoshke, I really like your post. Thank you so much. It is very helpful for my desire to visit Australia. Let me ask cuz I’m planning to go to Melbourne just for a week this Mid August, is my funds for 200,000 is enough for this do you think? And I will be doing the process this week.

How long is your trip? If a few days lang, yep, enough na yan. :)

hi! how do u apply as a family? everyone should make an immi account?

Kahit 1 lang ang gumawa, tapos submit as a group na. :)

Oh Im so happy to get a reply. Thank you soo much. I’ll be there for just a week.

Hi Yoshke Dimen,

Thank you for your time in advance. I’m currently working now with my application. I have another question. I got BIR 2307 from my employer that shows my tax charges and the amount of salary too, Do you think this is enough? An ITR cant be served instead I need to ask it from BIR with a charge. Secondly, do I need to notarize the documents? Third, My passport name is maiden, with the DFA approval, I’ve separated 9 yrs now but not yet annulled by paper, do you think, the embassy still beed to check on that? This is something to do with IDs I am submitting, both under married and maiden names .

Thank you in advace

1. I don’t know if that’s enough. Visa application approval involves a lot of factors: funds, employment, rootedness. I think if you have plenty of other proof of income/employment/rootedness, okay lang yan.

2. There was a note that the passport copy had to be notarized when we applied. Not sure if that’s still true now. You’ll know when you begin your application. It’s usually indicated on the application dashboard. In our case, we didn’t have our docs notarized but they were accepted.

3. Usually, a quick remedy is just submit a copy of the marriage certificate to explain the different last names. I don’t know for sure coz I haven’t experienced it.

what is the longest visa we can get? can we get a multiple visa say 5 years or 10 years?

Thank you for sharing your experiences in the beautiful places in AU and how to get the AU visa, We are visiting our kids who is studying in AU this July so we are now planning to apply the Visa this June what is the website for the immi account. Thanks

Hi there, help please…. i will be traveling with my wife. I have filled up the online application and was asked for my traveling companion. I end up until i submit my application. but i can’t see anything on how to attach the details for my wife. separate ba ang application nya in a separate IMMIACCOUNT?? kindly email me your reply. i might not be able to return to your blog site.

maraming salamat po.

hope this will help…i was also confused with that travelling companion part….but when you click on yes and i believe it will ask you to enter the details.it will indicate that a separate application needs to be submitted for that person.in your case your wife..

Hi! Not sure exactly how to do group application because I haven’t tried it myself. I just know that it’s possible.

Just wanna share..since d agony of waiting for d visa is too much hehheh I submitted my application may 9 and just received the visa today may 18 and multiple entries was granted. I only have 5000aud sa bank..and hindi certified copy ang sinubmit ko. I only scanned my current and old passport….the rest of the documents,i only took photos /picture of it.as long as clear naman yung copy…and screensht yung iba.maybe case to case basis.maybe ok lang kc they accepted it.

Hi, okay lang kaya if screenshot lang un mga payslips and other paperless transactions?

Hi Tine, yung sa akin downloaded na payslips, so halos same lang sya ng screenshots. Na-approve naman. Pero halos extra ko na lang yung payslips kasi meron din akong COE, ITR, bank cert, etc.

2024 Australia Visitor Visa Guide: 6 Steps for Filipinos

Of all my visa applications, I can say that applying for an Australia tourist visa or visitor visa , was the easiest for me, simply because it can all be done online. Plus, an Income Tax Return (ITR) is not a requirement. Isn’t it great? This makes it easier for self-employed freelancers who still don’t have this document.

Just to share, one of my travel buddies got denied on his first attempt to apply for an Australia visitor visa. But the good thing about the Australian visa is that you can re-apply as soon as you get denied. I’ll share with you the tips on how my friend got approved on his second application. Meanwhile, make sure you follow these steps carefully:

Australia tourist visa for Filipinos online steps

Step 1: make your immigration australia  immiaccount.

Go to the  ImmiAccount portal and click “ Create ImmiAccount ”. Write your new user details such as complete name, contact numbers, and email address. Then, you indicate your username, password, and secret questions.

To continue, you have to agree to their terms and conditions. Once you submit, an email verification will be sent to you.

Tip: Make sure that your email is valid and active. All notices, updates, and your final Australia visitor visa will be sent there.

Step 2: Log in to create your Australia visitor visa application

Once your email is verified, log in to your ImmiAccount and create your Australian tourist visa application. Select  Visitor Visa (600) if you’re traveling to Australia as a tourist for not more than one year.

You will have to fill in and answer about 20 pages, but you don’t have to answer them all at once. Answer any that you can. Click “Next” if you want to proceed to the next page, and “Save” if you want to take a break first and complete it later.

Tip: It took me about three days to finish all the pages, so take your time. Double-check or triple-check all details before you finally click “Submit”. Any errors or data inconsistencies may compromise your Australian visa application.

Step 3: Scan and attach your Australia tourist visa requirements

On the last part of your application, you will have to attach your Australia visa requirements proving your identity and travel capacity. You can submit and attach up to 60 documents. Here’s how to attach documents in your ImmiAccount .

Here’s a list of what I submitted and attached for my Australia visitor visa:

• Passport Bio Page
• PSA Birth Certificate
• Old Visas and Entry/Exit Stamps
• Employment Certificate with Approved Leaves
• Bank Statement and Bank Certificate
• Daily Itinerary and Flight Tickets

* Since the implementation of the biometrics collection, you no longer have to attach passport size photos on your Australia visa online application.

List of attached documents for Australia visitor visa (short stay)

Required documents:

• Travel Document (Passport Bio Page, Other Passport Pages with Personal Info, Other Travel Docs)

Recommended documents:

• Family register and composition form (if applicable)
• Evidence of planned tourism activities in Australia (Itinerary, Planned Activities, etc.)
• Evidence of the financial status and funding (Bank Statement, Payslip, Title Deed, Tax Document, etc.)
• Evidence of current employment or self-employment (Employment Certificate, Leave Notice, Business Registration, etc.)

Step 4: Pay the Australian tourist visa application fee

Submit all your documents and pay the Australia visa application fee. You can pay using PayPal or credit card.

How much is the Australia visitor visa fee?

As of publication date, the visa application fee for Australia visitor visa (subclass 600 ) is AU$190 (₱7,000) . This still does not include the processing fee of AU$2.66 (₱100). You may check the Australia visa fees estimator for the latest fees.

Once you pay, you will then get an acknowledgement email that your Australian tourist visa application has been received.

Step 5: Schedule your biometrics collection at VFS Global

After submitting your Australia tourist visa application, you will receive an email containing the biometric requirement letter from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

You will then need to book an appointment at VFS Global in Manila or Cebu to have your biometrics data collected. Take a copy of that email along with your Philippine passport on your scheduled appointment date.

Do note that biometrics collection fee is ₱557 . You may read the breakdown of fees and biometrics collection guide by VFS Global  to know more.

Step 6: Keep calm and wait for your Australia tourist visa

Australia visa processing time could vary from 48 hours to 22 working days. Fortunately, I got my multiple-entry Visitor Visa (subclass 600) after five working days. That quick!

Tip: You may check the Australian visa processing times online , which is updated every month, so you’ll have an idea on how long your visa application may be processed.

Australian visitor visa cost breakdown

• Australia visa application fee = AU$190 (₱7,000) + payment service fee of AU$2.66 (₱100)
• Biometrics collection fee = ₱557
• Bank certificate / statements = ₱100

Estimated Total = ₱7,757

More of less, you will have to prepare around ₱8,000 for your Australia visitor visa application.

Australia visitor visa application tips to increase chances of approval

As what I’ve said, my friend was denied on his first Australian tourist visa application, but he applied right after adding more supporting documents. If you get denied, re-evaluate your application, correct any error, add more proofs of travel capacity, and re-apply as soon as you can! There is no holding time for Australia visa re-application. You may also check our tips to increase chances of visa approval .

Tip #1: Submit certified true copies of documents

If your documents look dubious, I recommend that you submit certified true copies of these documents before scanning and submitting them online. My friend submitted a not-so-professional-looking payslip. We think it was a major factor for his visa denial.

Tip #2: Attach supporting documents

Flight tickets and hotel reservations are NOT required, but they could show proof that you are capable of paying for your travels and that you will return to your home country because you already booked a return ticket.  My friend didn’t attach these documents on his first application.

Tip #3: Scan the printed copies of your bank statements

Downloaded copies of your online bank statements do not count as official bank statements. My friend did this in his attempt to save money. Do not scrimp on your official documents. You have to request an official bank certificate and bank statements from your bank, scan, and attach them to your online visa application.

Tip #4: Show proof of travel history

You may attach old visas, eVisas, and passport stamps on your old and new passport.

Tip #5: Create a cover letter

A cover letter is not required for Australia visa, but it doesn’t hurt to submit one, especially if your situation needs to be explained. My friend submitted a cover letter on his re-application, and it worked!

Tip #6: When traveling as a group, input your group name

If you are traveling with someone or with a group, you could indicate this in Step 2. You can assign a group name with a list of members. Tell your travel buddies to input the same group name when they apply for their own visas individually. With this, the Australian embassy can tell who you’re traveling with, and crosscheck all your information.

Hope you find this Australian visa guide for Filipinos helpful. Best of luck in your Australia tourist visa application!

Ready to start your Australian adventure? You may want to read our Taronga Zoo guide if you want to see some cute animals in Australia. Add these awesome Australia Tour Packages to your itinerary, too!

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Disclaimer: I don’t claim to be a visa expert here. Although I was granted a multiple-entry Australia visitor visa, I still recommend that you visit the Australian Embassy in the Philippines and the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs for your questions and concerns. This visa guide was originally published in Jan 2019 but has since been updated for freshness and accuracy of information.

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Australia Visitor Visa for Filipino citizens: Your tourist visa guide

With its stunning natural beauty, exciting cities, and unique wildlife, it's no wonder that so many people want to visit Australia. If you're a Filipino national planning a trip to Australia , you must apply for a Australia Visitor Visa .

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about applying for this Australian tourist visa , including the requirements, Australian visa application, and visa fees.

Australian Visa system: Australia Visa types for Filipino citizens

As a Filipino citizen, you can apply for various types of visas to visit Australia. Here are the most popular visa categories:

• Australia Visitor Visa : This tourist visa is available to Philippines passport holders wanting to explore Australia as a tourist. It also permits you to study in Australia for less than three months.

You must complete an online application form to apply for this visa and provide your biometric information. There may also be instances where a phone interview is necessary.

Student Visa: If you plan to study in Australia for over three months, you must apply for a student visa. You must be accepted in an Australian educational institution to apply for this visa.

Skilled Visa: If you have skills or qualifications in demand in Australia, you may be eligible for a skilled visa. It’ll allow you to work legally in the country.

Australia Working Holiday visa: This is a temporary work visa for passport holders 18 to 30 years old who want to spend an extended holiday in Australia and work during their stay.

Family Visa: If you have family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, you may be able to apply for a family visa to join them in Australia.

Australian Tourist Visa: All about the Australian Visitor Visa for Filipinos

The Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is the travel document that allows Filipinos to enter Australia for tourist or business activities. At iVisa, we can help and guide you throughout the application process to ensure you have all the necessary support for a successful visa application.

How long can I stay in Australia with a Visitor Visa?

The Visitor Visa grants a stay for three, six, or twelve months ; the consular officer will decide depending on your background. Remember to keep within the allowed stay period.

Eligibility criteria for the Australia Visitor Visa

To be eligible for the Australia Visitor Visa , you must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a valid passport from the Philippines
• Undergo a medical examination
• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Be of good character
• Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
• Intend to only visit Australia temporarily for tourism or business visitor activities or study for less than three months.
• Meet all other visa conditions and requirements below.

Australia Visitor Visa requirements for children from the Philippines

If you plan to travel to Australia with your child from the Philippines, please note that kids need a visa too. Here are the requirements for your child's visa application:

• Your child's birth certificate must include both parents' names or a family book with both parents' names.
• You will need to provide ID cards of both parents or adoption papers with the ID of the guardians.
• If your child is traveling alone or with only one parent , you must present a Form 1229 along with the application. This form must be completed and signed by both parents or legal guardians and be accompanied by a copy of their driver's license or passport (or other identification with signature and photo).
• If your child is traveling without a parent or guardian and is not staying with a relative or on an organized tour, you must also include Form 1257 - Undertaking Declaration . It must be completed and signed by the person providing accommodation and responsible for your child during their stay in Australia.

Australia Visa Guide: Visa application process

The Visitor Visa comprises the most complex process among Australian tourist visas. You can apply through the government website or through us by following the steps below.

We aim to offer a quicker and simpler process for travelers, cutting down paperwork so you can focus on your trip:

• Step 1: Complete the visa application form on the website or on our app . You must provide personal information, travel history, hotel reservations, and passport details.
• Step 2: Double-check all the information to avoid mistakes. Pay the visa fee using Paypal, Venmo, Amazon Pay, or a credit or debit card.
• Step 3: Upload the required documents and click ‘Submit’. Attend the Australian Visa Application Centre appointment to provide your biometric information and undergo the health exam.

After that, you must wait for the government’s answer. Once approved, you can pack your bags and travel to Australia!

We also recommend downloading the iVisa app to keep track of your documents electronically. You can even track the status of your application and receive real-time alerts.

After applying for an Australia Visitor Visa

After filling out the visitor visa application form, a phone call interview is sometimes required. We’ll let you know if that’s the case. However, usually, you must visit an Australian Visa Application Centre or an Australian Biometrical Collections Centre.

Once this process is complete, you can expect a confirmation email with your application ID and reference number, which you can use to track your application's progress. You should also expect to hear from the Australian Government regarding any additional information or documents they may need from you to process your application.

Australia Visitor Visa processing times

Our service includes two stages. The first is our application processing, where we assist you in completing the visa application, reviewing all the information provided, and scheduling an appointment for biometric information submission at a VAC.

• Our processing time for Filipino citizens is 30 days .

Once you have submitted all required documents, provided biometric information, and passed the medical examination, the Australian government will process your visa application.

On average, the government takes 28 days (90% of applications) to process visa requests from Filipino citizens. It's important to note that the processing time may vary depending on the Embassy's workload.

We advise all travelers from the Philippines to apply well in advance to avoid disappointments.

Additional resources for further information about the Australia Visitor Visa

We know how to have the latest information make a difference in travel planning. Here are some handy websites and communication channels to consult if you need further information:

• Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
• Tourism Australia
• Australian Border Force
• Australian Embassy in the Philippines

Contact us for more info about your Australian Visa application

If you have any questions or concerns about the Australia visa for citizens of the Philippines, please don't hesitate to contact our customer service team via online chat or WhatsApp . We're ready to assist!

Related Articles

Australia visa rejection: Common reasons and how to avoid it

Australian passport renewal: Everything you must know

Australia Visitor Visa for Vanuatuan citizens: Requirements and application

• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

Monday, 15 Jan 2024

• Documentation

All Visa Processing Times Australia

You’ve made the decision to move to Australia and sorted out the right visa, but a big worry on your mind remains – how long will it take to process your visa?  

We’ve compiled general visa processing times in Australia so you don’t miss out on a job opportunity or a family reunion, and can plan your immigration with ease.

Skilled Migration Visa Processing Times

Australia welcomes skilled migrants who can address labour shortages and contribute to the economy. If you have the right qualifications and skill set, you can immigrate to Australia through the skilled migration program.

Processing times for the skilled migration visas are as follows:

This guide tells you about the different permanent residency (PR) pathways you can take, as well as the requirements and steps for PR applications.

Employer-sponsored visa processing times

If you have the needed qualifications and skills, and already have a sponsoring employer in Australia, you can apply for one of the following employer-sponsored visas below:

Learn more: Australia Skilled Occupation List

With this guide, you’ll gain insights into the in-demand occupations in Australia and the visa pathways suitable for each eligible skilled occupation, helping you make a better immigration plan.

Australia Student Visa Processing Times

If you want to hone your skills or pursue further studies in Australia – whether that’s vocational studies or post-graduate study – you can apply for an Australian student visa. Processing times are specified below:

Learn more: How to Apply for Student Visa in Australia . 

It features a step-by-step guide so you can get started on your Australian student visa application

Partner / Spouse Visa Australia Processing Time

​​If you want to live and remain with your partner in Australia, you can apply for a spouse/partner visa. Refer to the table below for the processing times:

Parent Visa Processing Time

The parent visa program allows parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia and reunite with their children. Processing times are as follows:

*Parent visas are subject to capping and queuing . Once the yearly limit is reached, new visas won’t be granted. Pending applications will be put in the queue for next year’s availability.

Child Visa Processing Time

Child visas allow a child to move to Australia and be reunited with their parent who is either an Australian citizen or permanent resident. These are the processing times for the different child visas:

Relative Visa Processing Time

The relative visas below allow close family members of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia. This especially applies to elderly relatives or those who require close care and supervision.

The processing times are stated below:

*The Relative / Family visas above are subject to capping and queuing . Once the yearly limit is reached, new visas won’t be granted. Pending applications will be put in the queue for next year’s availability.

Visitor / Tourist Visa Australia Processing Time

If you want to visit Australia for leisure or to visit family and friends, you must apply for one of the visitor visas below. Processing times are included in the table below:

*For ETA, you will usually receive the results of your visa application immediately via email.

Learn more: Invitation letter for tourist visa Australia . 

This blog tells you what an invitation letter is and how it can help boost your chances of getting your tourist visa approved.

Business Visa Processing Time

Business visas allow you to undertake business-related activities in Australia, whether that’s managing a company or investing in Australia’s economy. Refer to the table below for the processing times:

Talent Visa Processing Time

If you have exceptional skills or talent in an eligible field – such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics – and have a solid record to show for it, you can consider applying for a talent visa. Processing times are specified below:

Special Visas Processing Times

The special visas below are suited for specific individual circumstances. Processing times are as follows:

Factors That Affect Global Processing Time

The global processing times provided for each visa type are rough estimates, and the actual duration varies based on your individual circumstances. To ensure a smooth application process, consider these key factors affecting processing times:

• Accuracy and completeness of your application 

Double-check your application to avoid mistakes and send all the documents needed. Don’t include unnecessary paperwork.

• Department workload

The more visa applications the Department of Home Affairs is handling, the longer it may take to review each application.

• Your timely response to any information requests

The earlier you respond to any additional requests from the Department, the more you can expedite your application process.

• Third-party agencies

The time it takes to gather information from external agencies (for health, character, and security checks) can impact processing times.

• Availability of places

Avoid unnecessary visa processing time delays

With professional guidance, you won’t have to worry about missing any paperwork or falling into usual do-it-yourself visa application mistakes.

At KBA Global, you’re partnering with migration agents with diverse backgrounds and years of proven experience. We’ll sort out your documents and handle any sudden requirement changes to prevent unnecessary waits that can ruin your immigration plans. 

Get started with your visa application today with a free consultation .

Disclaimer: The above information is a general guide and not professional immigration advice. Be aware that immigration laws and regulations can change swiftly, potentially rendering some or all of the information outdated. Thus, before using the information above, we recommend checking the current laws through assistance from a migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs website.

Sydney Office – Head Office

• [email protected]
• (02) 9597 7386
• 3/1-3 King St, Rockdale NSW 2216

Darwin Office

• [email protected]
• 1800 522 456
• 4/4 Shepherd St, Darwin City, NT 0800 Australia

Hobart Office

• [email protected]
• (03) 6135 4949
• 1/130 Collins St, Hobart TAS 7000

Perth Office

• [email protected]
• (08) 9228 8075
• 2/91 Aberdeen Street, North Bridge, WA 6003

Melbourne Office

• [email protected]
• 0423 690 423
• Suite 10, Level 1/343 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Cagayan de Oro Office

• [email protected]
• +639666215381
• RN Abejuela Street, Chavez Building, Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro City

Tuguegarao Office

• [email protected]
• +639164628810
• 2nd floor. Solomon bldg. Centro 11, Balzain east Tuguegarao City

Kathmandu Office

• [email protected]
• +977 147 95576
• 6th Floor, Omkar Building, New Baneshwor, Madan Bhandari Road, Kathmandu 44600

Butwal Office

• [email protected]
• +977 715 46106
• Milanchowk - 9, Butwal Near Sunrise Bank 

Chitwan Office

• [email protected]
• +977 565 90154
• Nepal Bank Building, Lionschowk, Narayangadh, Chitwan

Nigeria Office

• [email protected]
• +2349131870293
• 10 Hughes Avenue Alagomeji, Yaba Lagos

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Australia Visitor Visa: Requirements, Eligibility and Application Process

Updated: February 7, 2024

Australia Visitor Visa is the only option to visit Australia as a tourist for many nationalities. If you don’t qualify for either the Electronic Travel Authority(ETA) or the eVisitor Visa, then you will need to get a Visitor Visa.

Australia no longer accepts paper applications for the visitor visa. All applications must be lodged online through the Australian Government Immi Portal.

The Visitor Visa has subclass 600 in Australia’s visa documentation and the subtype we’re interested in is the “Tourist stream (apply outside Australia)”.

Quick summary:

• Eligibility: All nationalities are eligible
• Validity: Valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years with single or multiple entries
• Duration of stay: Generally, 3 months allowed stay, but up to 6 or 12 in some cases
• Visa fee: Visitors visa fee is 190 AUD
• Processing time: 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% in 21 days.

If you haven’t already, read the  Australia Visa Guide  to familiarize yourself with Australian tourist visa types, requirements, eligibility and entry procedures at the border.

Table of Contents

Understanding australia visitor visa.

Visitor visa validity

The Australian Visitor visa is valid for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years from the date of issue. The validity of the visa depends on your nationality and circumstances. For example, most Indian passport holders get a 3-year valid Australian visa, whereas Phillippine passport holders get a 1-year valid visa. Pakistan nationals get a 6-month validity.

You must visit Australia within the validity of your visa.

Duration of stay

Most Visitor visas granted allow for 3 months of continuous stay in Australia. Depending on circumstances, you might be granted a stay of 6 months or even 12 months.

Allowed number of entries

Most Visitor visas are multiple-entry , but Home Affairs also issues single visas in certain circumstances for certain nationalities.

When to apply

Since the tourist visas are valid for at least 3 months, it’s a good idea to apply well in advance. Most applications get processed in 3 weeks or fewer.

Visa extension

Australia Visitor visa is non-extendable . If you need to  extend your stay in Australia , you are allowed to apply for another Visitor Visa (onshore) from within the country.

Australia Visitor Visa Requirements

Who requires a Visitor Visa?

Australia Visitor Visa is REQUIRED for all nationalities to enter Australia as a tourist, except for the below.

• New Zealand passport holders
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• eVisitor Visa
• Those transiting in Australia for less than 72 hours and can get a Transit visa .

Documents required

To support your application, you can attach as many as 60 documents online. You don’t have to attach that many but the more documents you provide, the better your chances of approval.

You have to satisfy the Home Office that:

• You are who you say you are
• You are a genuine visitor who will not overstay or work illegally
• You are of good character and not have a criminal record
• You won’t be a burden to Australia’s healthcare system

To do this, attach as many of these documents as you can :

Identity documents

• Valid passport (must be valid for the duration of the stay)
• Valid National ID card (if from a country that issues them)
• marriage or divorce certificate;
• change of name documents;
• documents that show other names you have been known by
• Residence Permit/Visa (if residence and citizenship differ)
• One passport-size photo

Genuine visitor documents

• Itemized personal bank statements for the last 3 months. Aim to have at least 5000 AUD in your bank account. The money cannot be deposited suddenly and inexplicably – it should be from legitimate sources and savings over time.
• Tax returns
• Credit card statements
• their relationship to you
• the purpose of your visit and length of stay
• if you will be staying with them
• Proof of their funds (if they will be paying for your stay)
• Your plans or travel itinerary while in Australia  
• a letter from your employer stating you plan to return to your job
• proof that you study at a school, college or university in your home country
• proof that you have immediate family members in your home country
• proof that you own a house or other major assets in your home country;
• Confirmed return flight ticket;
• Health Insurance

At a later date, you may be required to obtain and submit the following:

• Medical Certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

All non-English documents (except for police certificates) must be translated into English and all documents’ copies (both original and translations) must be certified.

Photo requirements

You need one passport-size digital photo for the Visitor Visa application. The photo must meet the following requirements. 

• Taken in the last 6 months
• Showing your head and shoulders against a plain background
• Neutral facial expression with mouth closed, eyes open, and looking at the camera
• Religious head coverings are allowed but must not obscure the face
• Piercing is allowed but must not cause any reflections or shadows

There is no official guidance for the size and resolution of pictures uploaded online but the file type must be JPG. You will get to move the photo to position your face within a frame.

As long as the picture is clear, crisp, and not excessively big, it will be accepted.

Visitor visa fee

The Australian Tourist Visa application fee is 190 AUD , payable online.

You may also have to pay for:

• Health checks
• Police certificates

Processing time

Australian immigration reports that 50% of applications are processed in 7 days and 90% are processed in 21 days . These periods start after you submit your biometrics (if required).

Visitor Visa Application Process

How to apply

You must apply for your tourist visa online through the Immi Portal. Applying on paper is not possible for the visitor visa anymore. Follow the below steps:

• Go to the ImmiAccount portal and create an account
• Click on “New application” and pick “Visitor Visa (600)”.
• Enter your personal information, passport details, employment details and financial information
• Upload your documents such as passport, photo, etc.
• Pay the required visa fee
• Submit the application

The Visitor Visa is part of Australia’s biometrics program. If you apply for a Visitor Visa from any of the below countries, regardless of your nationality, you must give your biometrics.

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kazakhstan 
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates

If you apply from one of these countries, you will receive an email informing you that you need to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) to have your biometrics collected. The biometrics are usually a face photo and fingerprint scan.

You must complete the biometrics procedure within 14 days of getting this email otherwise your application becomes void without a refund!

AABCs are typically managed by VFS Global. They charge a service fee for biometric collection. This fee depends on AABC and the country you are applying from.

For example, the biometric service at AABC in Dubai, UAE is AED 109.17. The biometric service fee at AABC in Manila, Philippines is PHP 557.

How to schedule biometric appointment?

Within 24 hours of applying for your Visitor Visa, you will receive an email with a biometric request letter from Home Affairs. Follow these steps to schedule your biometric appointment.

Find the nearest ABCC to you and follow the prompts to schedule your biometric appointment.

How to attend biometric appointment?

Follow the below steps to attend your biometric appointment at an AABC.

• Arrive at the AABC at least 15 minutes before your appointment time
• Original passport
• Biometric appointment confirmation
• Biometric fee receipt and
• Biometric request letter received in the email from Home Affairs
• Your facial photo is taken and your 10 fingertips are scanned

What if you can’t attend your appointment?

If you can’t make an appointment, you can reschedule your appointment up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment date and time. You can reschedule up to 2 times.

What if you miss your appointment?

If you miss your scheduled appointment, you will lose the fee paid as the biometric fee is nonrefundable. You will also have to wait 24 hours to schedule a new appointment.

How to track status

You will receive the status of your application in your email. You can also track the status of the visa in your ImmiAccount.

How to download approved visa

When your Visitor Visa is approved, you will receive a grant letter in your email from Home Affairs. The grant letter is your Visitor Visa.

The Visitor visa is electronically linked to your passport, so you don’t need to download or print your Visitor Visa.

If you’re ever asked to show any proof, you can use the Grant Notification you received in your email. You can also download it from your ImmiAccount under “Visa Grant Details”.

How to check the validity of your Visitor Visa

The expiration date of your Australia eVisitor visa is indicated as “Must not arrive after” on the visa letter. If you lost your grant letter or don’t have a copy of your Visitor Visa, you can check the validity details on the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) portal by using either your Visa Grant Number or Transaction Reference Number.

Customer service

Refer to the Self-help Guidelines for information to troubleshoot any issues. If facing issues with your ImmiAccount or the Visitor visa application, contact customer service using the below webform

Web: ImmiAccount Technical Support Form

Procedure at the border

The Visitor Visa is digitally attached to your passport so you don’t need to print anything. When you enter Australia, simply present your passport and be ready to answer a few basic questions about your visit.

Eligible passport holders can use the Smart Gates for faster arrival and departure procedures.

All visitors including Australian citizens are required to fill out an Incoming Passenger Card on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to get an australian tourist visa.

It can take up to 3 weeks to get an Australian tourist visa, especially if submitting your biometrics. It can be faster or slower depending on where you are applying from, your circumstances and the number of documents you submit.

How hard is it to get a tourist visa to Australia?

It is easy to get a tourist visa to Australia if you submit a complete application with as many documents. You must convince the Home Office that you won’t overstay or break the conditions of the visa.

How much bank balance is required for Australia tourist visa?

Australian Home Office doesn’t specify the minimum bank balance required for a tourist visa. Your bank account must show continuous cash flow and not a lump sum deposited recently. 

Based on the reports from travelers reports and recommendations from embassies, you should aim for at least 5,000 AUD in your bank account when you apply.

Can you get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia?

Yes, you can get a 3-year visitor visa to Australia if are from an eligible country and meet the requirements. Australian Visitor Visa is issued for 6 months, 1 year or 3 years depending on your nationality and circumstances. For example, Indian nationals can get an Australian tourist visa valid for 3 years.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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How Long Is the Processing Time of an Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines?

For Visitor visa (Subclass 600) Tourist Stream, the official processing time is around 17 to 28 days . The period depends upon the completeness of your document. It will be longer if you need to undergo a health examination.

However, and based on personal experience, you can receive your visa in less than 17 days . Some even reported to have received it within a week.

Given the above, you should allow sufficient time and enough gap from your visa application to your actual date of departure.

Go back to the main article: How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa: A Complete Guide for Filipino Tourists

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• Philippines

Australia Tourist Visa For Filipino - Current Wait Times

By seekingthetruth October 8, 2022 in Philippines

• Register to Reply or Ask a Question
• Go to first unread post

7 posts in this topic

Recommended posts, seekingthetruth   1,215.

Long shot question.  Double posting in Australia and Philippines forums.  Hope that is ok in this case.

Our family is planning on visiting Australia in December.  Three U.S. citizens, and my wife and step daughter are Filipino citizens who will need Australian tourist visas.  We live in the Philippines and will fly Manila - Sydney.  I found the AU official line on wait times:

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-processing-times

25% <= 16 Days    50% <=39 Days    75%<= 63 Days    90% <= 4 Months

Wondering if anyone has recent experiences on how long it is taking for well qualified Filipinos to get the AU tourist passport??  I know it was a long time during Covid but recently I know of someone who got it in only two weeks.  Is this back to normal processing times?  I'm not worried about them being approved (they ae well travelled) but I'm hoping for some reassurance that they will be approved on time, before we book the flight. Any other websites that can help? 

Nov. 29th, 2020: I-130 submitted online, NOA 1 Nov. 30th, 2020

Feb. 19th, 2021: Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS

Feb. 19th, 2021: I-130 Approved  😊

Feb. 25th, 2021: Welcome letter from NVC

Mar. 9th, 2021:  Received Hard Copy NOA 2 I-797 in mail

October, 2021: One Year Postponement of Move, Visa Completion On Hold

Feb. 4th, 2022: Submitted DS 260

Stepdaughter

Dec. 9th, 2020: Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS

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nelmagriffin   139

Are they processing for tourism? They are still not open for tourism currently. Only returning nationals and residents are allowed plus the ones from New Zealand are allowed with a negative PCR test and agreed to have a 24-day quarantine, if this is still the current thing, it would be impossible to process for a tourist visa. Correct me if I am wrong. NG

note: plus, visitors from other countries

will always have 3 to 4 months wait for their visa.

Lil bear   3,829

23 minutes ago, nelmagriffin said: Greetings! Are they processing for tourism? They are still not open for tourism currently. Only returning nationals and residents are allowed plus the ones from New Zealand are allowed with a negative PCR test and agreed to have a 24-day quarantine, if this is still the current thing, it would be impossible to process for a tourist visa. Correct me if I am wrong. NG note: plus, visitors from other countries will always have 3 to 4 months wait for their visa.

Australia has lifted visitor arrival 

restrictions months ago. Never was 24 day quarantine. Max was 14… Quarantine requirements lifted early this year   Correct info available on smarttraveller.gov.au

Hello, I meant to type 14 days and yes it was never 24 days.

6 hours ago, nelmagriffin said: Are they processing for tourism? 

Yes, in fact, one reason we chose Australia for a holiday is that they have no test requirements for visitors.  Some other places still have test requirements.

6 hours ago, nelmagriffin said: note: plus, visitors from other countries will always have 3 to 4 months wait for their visa.

This is the experience of an Aussie expat with his long time girlfriend who has traveled with him a lot to other countries.  I was hoping that others might have recent experiences to share.

Submitted application online Sat 10th Sept

Submitted Biometrics Cebu Tue 20th Sept 

Recieved Grant email Wed 21st Sept 8:50am

The stats I posted above are from the AU website and the link is there.

TBoneTX   42,844

Unanswered duplicate post in Australia forum has been removed.

06-04-2007 = TSC stamps postal return-receipt for I-129f.

06-11-2007 = NOA1 date (unknown to me).

07-20-2007 = Phoned Immigration Officer; got WAC#; where's NOA1?

09-25-2007 = Touch (first-ever).

09-28-2007 = NOA1, 23 days after their 45-day promise to send it (grrrr).

10-20 & 11-14-2007 = Phoned ImmOffs; "still pending."

12-11-2007 = 180 days; file is "between workstations, may be early Jan."; touches 12/11 & 12/12.

12-18-2007 = Call; file is with Division 9 ofcr. (bckgrnd check); e-prompt to shake it; touch.

12-19-2007 = NOA2 by e-mail & web, dated 12-18-07 (187 days; 201 per VJ); in mail 12/24/07.

01-09-2008 = File from USCIS to NVC , 1-4-08; NVC creates file, 1/15/08; to consulate 1/16/08.

01-23-2008 = Consulate gets file; outdated Packet 4 mailed to fiancee 1/27/08; rec'd 3/3/08.

04-29-2008 = Fiancee's 4-min. consular interview, 8:30 a.m.; much evidence brought but not allowed to be presented (consul: "More proof! Second interview! Bring your fiance!").

05-05-2008 = Infuriating $12 call to non-English-speaking consulate appointment-setter.

05-06-2008 = Better $12 call to English-speaker; "joint" interview date 6/30/08 (my selection).

06-30-2008 = Stokes Interrogations w/Ecuadorian (not USC); "wait 2 weeks; we'll mail her."

07-2008 = Daily calls to DOS: "currently processing"; 8/05 = Phoned consulate, got Section Chief; wrote him.

08-07-08 = E-mail from consulate, promising to issue visa "as soon as we get her passport" (on 8/12, per DHL).

08-27-08 = Phoned consulate (they "couldn't find" our file); visa DHL'd 8/28; in hand 9/1; through POE on 10/9 with NO hassles(!).

• 3 weeks later...

For any interested Filipinos, it appears that Australia tourist visas are now processing quickly if you are well travelled and qualified.  My wife and stepdaughter were approved yesterday.

Applied on Oct. 12th

Biometrics on the 21st

Approved on the 27th

Total 15 calendar days

• Adventine , top_secret and Chancy

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1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600, Australia

If you are from the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Vanuatu, Nauru, and Tuvalu or if you wish to apply for a visa at the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, please see below information:

• FOREIGN NATIONALS WHO MAY ENTER THE PHILIPPINES WITHOUT A VISA
• Must comply with entry requirements for arriving foreign nationals as stated in https://immigration.gov.ph/#advisory
• In response to the IATF directive, the One Health Pass is officially replaced with the electronic Arrival Card. Please register at: https://etravel.gov.ph/
• Visa-free foreign nationals from countries under Executive Order 408, S. 1960, which includes Australia, for stays not exceeding 30 days.
• Have filled out the Health Declaration Form - https://etravel.gov.ph/.
• FOREIGN NATIONALS WHO WILL ENTER THE PHILIPPINES WITH A VISA
• Philippine Visa photo requirements are:
• Plain white or off-white background
• Natural facial expression (no smiling) and both eyes open
• No eyeglasses, earrings, necklace, hat or any head covering the hair or hairline
• Taken full-face view directly facing the camera with the photo capturing only the face with a portion of the neck without including the shoulders
• Image pixel dimensions must be in a square aspect ratio (meaning the height must be equal to the width)
• Accomplish Application Form
• The Name, Place of Birth, Date of Birth, Age, Country of Citizenship, Sex, Contact Number and other demographic data must be in English Block Letters. The entries in the First Name, Middle Name, and Last Name should match all entries in the corresponding fields in the applicant’s passport.
• Download and save the application in pdf form. User needs to affix his/her signature to the application form.
• User will then be required to upload the Signed Application Form and a full-sized photo of the Passport Data Page (picture of the Passport Data Page should not include other pages of the passport). PDF document files and image files PNG and JPEG are the allowed file types.
• A visa application receipt confirmation will automatically be sent to your registered email address after completing the online visa application process.
• Ensure Compliance with Philippine Entry Regulations
• Have filled out the Health Declaration Form - https://etravel.gov.ph .