Migration · Australia
Australia eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)
Planning a trip to Australia? Check eVisitor visa eligibility, UK passport requirements, the free application process, permitted stay and official government guidance.
Pathway at a glance
Eligibility and documents
- Valid passport from an eligible country
- Correct passport details and personal information
- Genuine temporary travel purpose
- Sufficient funds for the stay and departure
- Meet applicable health requirements
- Meet applicable character requirements
- Accurate answers to all application questions
- Supporting information or documents if requested by the Department
Application process
- 1
Check passport eligibility
Confirm that your nationality and exact passport type qualify for the eVisitor.
- 2
Visit the official website
Read the Department of Home Affairs subclass 651 guidance.
- 3
Complete the application
Enter your details accurately as shown on your passport.
- 4
Answer all questions truthfully
Provide the information requested about your travel and circumstances.
- 5
Submit the application
Follow the official online process; the eVisitor has no government application charge.
- 6
Wait for the decision
Monitor your email and respond if additional information is requested.
- 7
Check your visa grant
Confirm your visa details, validity and conditions before travelling.
Costs and fees
| eVisitor 651 application charge | Free |
|---|---|
| Flights | Depends on airline, dates and route |
| Accommodation | Depends on location and length of stay |
| Travel insurance | Optional but recommended |
| Daily expenses | Budget for meals, transport and personal costs |
| Alternative ETA 601 | AUD 20 app service charge for eligible applicants |
| Alternative Visitor visa 600 | Overseas Tourist stream starts from AUD 250; confirm current charges |
Fees change. Check the official source before you pay.
Planning a holiday in Australia, visiting family or travelling from the UK for a short business visit? The Evisitor Visa Australia (subclass 651) may be a suitable option if you hold an eligible passport and meet the visa requirements.
The eVisitor is an electronic visa that allows eligible travellers to visit Australia for tourism, visit friends and family, or undertake permitted business visitor activities. It is free to apply for through the official Australian Government process. The visa is generally valid for 12 months from the date it is granted and allows multiple entries, with a stay of up to three months each time you enter Australia.
Many travellers search for a free visa for Australia from the UK. However, eligibility depends on your passport nationality and type, not simply on where you live. British Citizen passport holders are eligible to apply for the eVisitor, but some other British passport categories are not.
This guide explains the Australia eVisitor visa requirements, who can apply, how to submit an application, how long processing may take and how the eVisitor differs from other Australian visitor visas.
What Is the Australia eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)?
The eVisitor visa, also called the eVisitor subclass 651, is an Australian temporary visa for eligible passport holders travelling for permitted short visits.
It is designed for people who want to visit Australia for purposes such as:
- Tourism and holidays
- Visiting friends or family
- Permitted business visitor activities
- Short courses or training of up to three months in total, where allowed
The eVisitor is not a work visa. It does not permit you to take up paid employment with an Australian employer or provide services to an Australian business.
eVisitor subclass 651 -Applications are made online through the Australian Government’s official immigration system. If granted, the visa is digitally linked to your passport, so you do not receive a traditional visa label in your passport.
Key facts about the eVisitor 651 visa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official visa name | eVisitor |
| Visa subclass | 651 |
| Application charge | Free |
| Validity | 12 months from grant |
| Entries | Multiple entries while the visa is valid |
| Maximum stay | Up to three months per entry |
| Application location | You must be outside Australia when applying |
| Decision location | You must be outside Australia when the visa is decided |
| Work rights | Paid work is not permitted |
| Study | Up to three months in total, subject to the visa rules |
| Application method | Online through the official Australian Government system |
Official website: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651
Is the Australian eVisitor Visa Free?
Yes. The Australian Government lists the eVisitor subclass 651 as a visa with no application charge.
However, free does not mean that everyone can apply. You must hold a valid passport from an eligible country and meet the other visa criteria.
You should also be careful with third-party websites that advertise a free Australian visa but charge a service fee to complete the application. Use the official Department of Home Affairs website to access the government application process.
Although the visa application itself is free, you may still have other travel expenses, such as flights, accommodation, travel insurance and personal costs.
Is there a free Australian visa for UK citizens?
If you hold a valid British Citizen passport, you are included in the eligible passport list for the eVisitor visa. You may apply for the free subclass 651 if you meet the remaining requirements.
Being a UK resident is not enough on its own. For example, a person living in London with a passport from a country that is not eligible for the eVisitor must investigate the visa options available for that passport.
Some British passport categories, including British National (Overseas), British Overseas Citizen and British Subject passports, are specifically excluded from eVisitor eligibility.
Check your exact passport category before starting an application.
Who Is Eligible for the Australia eVisitor Visa?
Eligibility depends on your passport, travel purpose and personal circumstances.
1. Hold a passport from an eligible country
You must be a citizen of, and hold a valid passport from, a country included in the Department’s eVisitor eligibility list.
Eligible countries include the United Kingdom for British Citizens, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and other listed European countries. The official list also includes several additional European countries and territories.
Do not rely on an unofficial list copied from an old visa guide. Check the live government page to confirm that your passport is eligible.
2. Be a genuine temporary visitor
You must intend to visit Australia temporarily and comply with the visa conditions. You should have a genuine reason for travelling, such as a holiday, visiting family or undertaking permitted business visitor activities.
3. Meet health requirements
Applicants must meet the applicable Australian health requirements. If you have previously failed to meet the health requirement, the Department indicates that a Visitor visa (subclass 600) may be more appropriate.
4. Meet character requirements
You must meet the character requirements. The Department advises applicants with a criminal conviction to consider the Visitor visa (subclass 600) instead. A criminal conviction may affect eligibility or entry to Australia.
5. Have sufficient funds
You must have enough money to support yourself during your stay and leave Australia at the end of your visit.
6. Apply from outside Australia
You must be outside Australia when you submit the eVisitor application and when the Department makes its decision. Do not assume that you can switch to an eVisitor while already in Australia.
Official eligibility guidance: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651
How to Apply for an Australian eVisitor Visa
The application is completed online. Follow the official process carefully and ensure your passport details are accurate.
Step 1: Check your passport eligibility
Confirm that your passport is from an eligible country and is valid for your intended travel. If you hold more than one passport, check which passport you will use for the application and travel.
Step 2: Open the official government website
Go to the Australian Department of Home Affairs eVisitor page:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651
Use the official link to access the application instructions. Avoid sponsored advertisements or third-party sites that imitate government services.
Step 3: Enter your personal details
Complete the online application with information matching your passport. Check your full name, including middle names, date of birth, passport number and email address.
Even small errors can cause delays or create problems when boarding your flight or entering Australia.
Step 4: Answer the eligibility questions truthfully
Provide accurate information about your travel purpose, personal circumstances and any other information requested by the Department. Declare criminal history and other relevant details where required.
Do not omit information because you believe it may affect the outcome.
Step 5: Submit the application
Review all entries before submitting. The eVisitor application has no government visa application charge.
Keep a record of your submission and monitor your email for confirmation or requests for additional information.
Step 6: Wait for the decision
The Department will notify you of the outcome in writing. You must be outside Australia when the visa is granted.
Do not make non-refundable travel arrangements based solely on having submitted an application. Wait until you receive written confirmation that your visa has been granted.
Step 7: Check your visa details
Once granted, check the visa information and conditions carefully. The visa is electronically linked to your passport. If you obtain a new passport, contact the Department or follow its current instructions before travelling.
How Long Does an Australia eVisitor Visa Take?
The processing time varies by application. The Department’s published processing-time guide has recently shown that 90% of Australia Evisitor Visa were decided in less than one day. This is a guide based on recently decided applications, not a guarantee that every application will be approved within that period.
An application may take longer if the Department needs further information, identity checks or additional assessment.
To reduce avoidable delays:
- Enter your passport details correctly.
- Provide a valid email address.
- Answer all questions accurately.
- Respond promptly if the Department requests information.
- Check your application status and messages.
You should apply well before your planned departure, even if many eVisitor applications are decided quickly.
Official processing-time information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times
How Long Can You Stay in Australia on an eVisitor?
The eVisitor visa is generally valid for travel for 12 months from the date of grant. During that period, it allows multiple entries, with a maximum stay of three months after each entry.
For example, if you visit Australia for a holiday and leave before your permitted stay ends, you may be able to return again while the visa remains valid. Each entry is still subject to the visa conditions and the decision of Australian border authorities.
The 12-month validity period does not mean that you can remain in Australia continuously for 12 months.
If you make frequent visits or spend long periods in Australia, officials may ask about the purpose of your travel. The Department may cancel a visa if it determines that you are not a genuine temporary visitor.
You cannot extend an eVisitor visa simply by asking for extra time. If you want to remain longer, you must explore another visa option for which you qualify.
What Can You Do on an eVisitor Visa?
The eVisitor permits certain short-term activities.
Tourism and holidays
You can visit Australian attractions, take a holiday, go on a cruise or explore the country during your permitted stay.
Visiting friends and family
You can travel to see relatives or friends, provided you meet the visa conditions and intend to stay temporarily.
Business visitor activities
Permitted activities include general business or employment enquiries, investigating or negotiating business contracts, attending conferences and taking part in certain official government visits.
You cannot work for or provide services to an Australian business or sell goods or services directly to the public under the business visitor conditions.
Short study or training
The eVisitor allows study or training for up to three months in total, subject to the visa conditions. If your main purpose is to study in Australia, a Student visa may be more appropriate.
Certain healthcare-related training or entry into healthcare and hospital environments may require a different visa and relevant health checks. Check the Department’s guidance before making arrangements.
What Is the Difference Between eVisitor 651, ETA 601 and Visitor Visa 600?
These visas serve different travellers and circumstances. Choosing the correct one depends on your passport, purpose of travel and intended stay.
| Feature | eVisitor 651 | ETA 601 | Visitor visa 600 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application charge | Free | AUD 20 ETA app service charge | From AUD 250 for the overseas Tourist stream; check current charges |
| Eligible applicants | Citizens holding passports from eVisitor-eligible countries | Eligible passport holders under ETA rules | Applicants who qualify for the relevant Visitor visa stream |
| Application method | Online government process | Australian ETA app for eligible passports | Online through the applicable government process |
| Stay | Up to three months per entry | Up to three months per entry | May be granted for 3, 6 or 12 months, depending on the decision |
| Multiple entries | Yes, while valid | Yes, while valid | Depends on the visa granted and its conditions |
| Work | Not permitted | Not permitted under visitor conditions | Not permitted under visitor conditions |
The Visitor visa (subclass 600) may be more appropriate if you are not eligible for the eVisitor or ETA, or if your circumstances require another visitor visa pathway.
Do not assume that the ETA and eVisitor are the same visa. They have different eligibility rules and application processes.
Official sources:
- eVisitor 651: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651
- ETA 601: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601
- Visitor visa 600: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600
What If You Are Not Eligible for the eVisitor?
If your passport is not eligible for the eVisitor, do not submit an application using incorrect passport details or rely on a third-party website that claims to bypass the rules.
Depending on your passport and travel purpose, you may be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) or a Visitor visa (subclass 600).
The correct option depends on the official eligibility rules. The ETA is available only to eligible passport holders and applications generally use the Australian ETA app. The Visitor visa has different requirements and an application charge.
If you are unsure which visa applies, use the Department’s official visa information and eligibility tools before paying for travel arrangements.
Important Tips Before Travelling to Australia
Before departure, make sure you have received written confirmation of your visa grant. Check the passport linked to the visa and confirm the permitted stay and any conditions.
It is also sensible to arrange travel insurance. The Australian Government recommends health insurance for eVisitor travellers because visitors may be personally responsible for medical treatment costs.
Keep a copy of your visa grant information accessible while travelling. Border officials may ask questions about the purpose of your visit, your accommodation, your funds or your plans to leave Australia.
Remember that holding a visa does not remove the obligation to comply with Australian entry requirements and visa conditions.
Conclusion
The Evisitor Australia (subclass 651) is a free electronic visa for eligible passport holders visiting Australia for tourism, family visits and permitted business visitor activities. It generally allows multiple entries over 12 months, with a stay of up to three months per entry.
For UK travellers, a valid British Citizen passport is eligible for the eVisitor, but living in the UK alone does not qualify someone. Applicants must also meet the health, character, financial and genuine-visitor requirements.
Apply through the official Australian Government website, provide accurate information and wait for written confirmation before travelling. If you are not eligible for the eVisitor, check whether the ETA (subclass 601) or Visitor visa (subclass 600) is suitable for your circumstances.
Official application information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651
Frequently asked questions
What is the Australia eVisitor visa (subclass 651)?
The eVisitor visa is a free Australian electronic visa for eligible passport holders travelling for tourism, visiting friends and family, or permitted business visitor activities.
Is the Australian eVisitor visa free?
Yes. The official Australian Government eVisitor subclass 651 application has no visa application charge. Other travel expenses may still apply.
Can I get a free visa for Australia from the UK?
If you hold a valid British Citizen passport, you may apply for the free eVisitor visa if you meet the other requirements. UK residence alone does not make you eligible.
Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Australia?
British citizens generally need an appropriate visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia. A British Citizen passport holder may be eligible for the eVisitor subclass 651.
What is the official website for the eVisitor subclass 651?
Use the Australian Department of Home Affairs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651.
How long is an Australian eVisitor visa valid for?
The eVisitor is generally valid for 12 months from the date it is granted and allows multiple entries during that period.
How long can I stay in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
You can generally stay for up to three months per entry while the visa remains valid and you comply with its conditions.
How long does an Australia eVisitor visa take to process?
The Department's published guide has shown that 90% of applications were decided in less than one day, but individual applications may take longer. This is not a guarantee of approval.
Can I work in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
No. The eVisitor is not a work visa and does not permit paid employment for an Australian employer.
Can I study in Australia on a subclass 651 visa?
Study or training may be permitted for up to three months in total, subject to visa conditions. A Student visa may be more appropriate if study is your main purpose.
Can I apply for an eVisitor visa while in Australia?
No. You must be outside Australia when applying and when the Department makes its decision on the eVisitor application.
Can I extend my Australian eVisitor visa?
You cannot extend the eVisitor itself. If you want to stay longer, you must explore another visa for which you qualify.
What documents do I need for an Australian eVisitor application?
You need an eligible valid passport and accurate personal details. The Department may request additional information or documents depending on your circumstances.
Is the eVisitor visa the same as an ETA?
No. The eVisitor is subclass 651, while the Electronic Travel Authority is subclass 601. They have different eligibility rules and application processes.
What is the difference between eVisitor 651 and Visitor visa 600?
The eVisitor is free and available to eligible passport holders. The Visitor visa subclass 600 has different eligibility requirements, a fee and potentially longer permitted stays, depending on the grant.
Can Indian passport holders apply for the eVisitor visa?
An Indian passport is not included in the eVisitor's eligible passport list. Check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the appropriate alternative visa.
Can I apply for an eVisitor visa for my family?
Yes, eligible family members can make separate applications. Each person, including children listed on a parent's passport, requires a separate application.
Do I need to print my Australian eVisitor visa?
The visa is digitally linked to your passport, and you do not receive a traditional visa label. Keep your grant notification accessible and check the visa details before travelling.
Can I visit Australia multiple times on an eVisitor visa?
Yes. The visa generally allows multiple entries during its 12-month validity, with stays of up to three months per entry, subject to its conditions.
What happens if my eVisitor application is refused?
The Department will notify you of the decision. Review the reasons and check the official guidance to understand whether another visa option may be appropriate.
Does a free eVisitor visa guarantee entry into Australia?
No. You must comply with visa conditions and Australian entry requirements. Border officials may ask about your travel purpose, funds and plans to leave Australia.
Do I need travel insurance for Australia?
Travel insurance is recommended because visitors may be responsible for their medical treatment costs in Australia.
Where can I check my Australian eVisitor visa conditions?
Check your visa grant notification and use the Department of Home Affairs' Visa Entitlement Verification Online service where appropriate.
What our clients say
I wanted to learn more about the eVisitor Subclass 651 Australia and whether it was suitable for my travel plans. GIEC Global helped me understand the visa conditions, eligibility requirements and online application procedure. Their team also clarified common questions about the free Australian visa application, including whether the eVisitor visa itself has an application charge and what other costs may apply. The information was easy to understand and the consultation was helpful. Thank you to the GIEC Global team for their professional support.
My experience with GIEC Global was positive. I contacted their team to understand the eVisitor Visa Australia 651 requirements before planning my trip. They explained the Australian Visa Subclass 651, the application procedure and the importance of checking eligible passport countries. I also received useful information about the Australia eVisitor visa application and the documents and details applicants may need. The team was friendly, professional and willing to explain everything clearly. I would recommend their consultation services.
"GIEC Global provided useful guidance when I was researching the Australian eVisitor visa and the Subclass 651 visa Australia requirements. I wanted to know whether I could apply for a free visa for Australia from UK and what conditions applied to this visa category. The consultant explained the difference between the eVisitor visa and other Australian visitor visa options. Their explanation made it easier to understand the visa application process,Very helpful and professional service."
"I was looking for reliable information about the eVisitor Visa Australia from UK and came across GIEC Global. Their consultants provided clear guidance about the Australia eVisitor Subclass 651, including eligibility, travel requirements and the online application process. They also explained how to apply for an eVisitor Visa Australia and what applicants should check before submitting an application. The consultation was informative, and I appreciated the team's patience in answering all my questions."
What our clients say
I wanted to learn more about the eVisitor Subclass 651 Australia and whether it was suitable for my travel plans. GIEC Global helped me understand the visa conditions, eligibility requirements and online application procedure. Their team also clarified common questions about the free Australian visa application, including whether the eVisitor visa itself has an application charge and what other costs may apply. The information was easy to understand and the consultation was helpful. Thank you to the GIEC Global team for their professional support.
My experience with GIEC Global was positive. I contacted their team to understand the eVisitor Visa Australia 651 requirements before planning my trip. They explained the Australian Visa Subclass 651, the application procedure and the importance of checking eligible passport countries. I also received useful information about the Australia eVisitor visa application and the documents and details applicants may need. The team was friendly, professional and willing to explain everything clearly. I would recommend their consultation services.
"GIEC Global provided useful guidance when I was researching the Australian eVisitor visa and the Subclass 651 visa Australia requirements. I wanted to know whether I could apply for a free visa for Australia from UK and what conditions applied to this visa category. The consultant explained the difference between the eVisitor visa and other Australian visitor visa options. Their explanation made it easier to understand the visa application process,Very helpful and professional service."
"I was looking for reliable information about the eVisitor Visa Australia from UK and came across GIEC Global. Their consultants provided clear guidance about the Australia eVisitor Subclass 651, including eligibility, travel requirements and the online application process. They also explained how to apply for an eVisitor Visa Australia and what applicants should check before submitting an application. The consultation was informative, and I appreciated the team's patience in answering all my questions."
Frequently asked questions
What is the Australia eVisitor visa (subclass 651)?
The eVisitor visa is a free Australian electronic visa for eligible passport holders travelling for tourism, visiting friends and family, or permitted business visitor activities.
Is the Australian eVisitor visa free?
Yes. The official Australian Government eVisitor subclass 651 application has no visa application charge. Other travel expenses may still apply.
Can I get a free visa for Australia from the UK?
If you hold a valid British Citizen passport, you may apply for the free eVisitor visa if you meet the other requirements. UK residence alone does not make you eligible.
Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Australia?
British citizens generally need an appropriate visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia. A British Citizen passport holder may be eligible for the eVisitor subclass 651.
What is the official website for the eVisitor subclass 651?
Use the Australian Department of Home Affairs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/evisitor-651.
How long is an Australian eVisitor visa valid for?
The eVisitor is generally valid for 12 months from the date it is granted and allows multiple entries during that period.
How long can I stay in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
You can generally stay for up to three months per entry while the visa remains valid and you comply with its conditions.
How long does an Australia eVisitor visa take to process?
The Department's published guide has shown that 90% of applications were decided in less than one day, but individual applications may take longer. This is not a guarantee of approval.
Can I work in Australia on an eVisitor visa?
No. The eVisitor is not a work visa and does not permit paid employment for an Australian employer.
Can I study in Australia on a subclass 651 visa?
Study or training may be permitted for up to three months in total, subject to visa conditions. A Student visa may be more appropriate if study is your main purpose.
Can I apply for an eVisitor visa while in Australia?
No. You must be outside Australia when applying and when the Department makes its decision on the eVisitor application.
Can I extend my Australian eVisitor visa?
You cannot extend the eVisitor itself. If you want to stay longer, you must explore another visa for which you qualify.
What documents do I need for an Australian eVisitor application?
You need an eligible valid passport and accurate personal details. The Department may request additional information or documents depending on your circumstances.
Is the eVisitor visa the same as an ETA?
No. The eVisitor is subclass 651, while the Electronic Travel Authority is subclass 601. They have different eligibility rules and application processes.
What is the difference between eVisitor 651 and Visitor visa 600?
The eVisitor is free and available to eligible passport holders. The Visitor visa subclass 600 has different eligibility requirements, a fee and potentially longer permitted stays, depending on the grant.
Can Indian passport holders apply for the eVisitor visa?
An Indian passport is not included in the eVisitor's eligible passport list. Check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the appropriate alternative visa.
Can I apply for an eVisitor visa for my family?
Yes, eligible family members can make separate applications. Each person, including children listed on a parent's passport, requires a separate application.
Do I need to print my Australian eVisitor visa?
The visa is digitally linked to your passport, and you do not receive a traditional visa label. Keep your grant notification accessible and check the visa details before travelling.
Can I visit Australia multiple times on an eVisitor visa?
Yes. The visa generally allows multiple entries during its 12-month validity, with stays of up to three months per entry, subject to its conditions.
What happens if my eVisitor application is refused?
The Department will notify you of the decision. Review the reasons and check the official guidance to understand whether another visa option may be appropriate.
Does a free eVisitor visa guarantee entry into Australia?
No. You must comply with visa conditions and Australian entry requirements. Border officials may ask about your travel purpose, funds and plans to leave Australia.
Do I need travel insurance for Australia?
Travel insurance is recommended because visitors may be responsible for their medical treatment costs in Australia.
Where can I check my Australian eVisitor visa conditions?
Check your visa grant notification and use the Department of Home Affairs' Visa Entitlement Verification Online service where appropriate.
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