Subclass 651 eVisitor Visa

Overview

The eVisitor (Subclass 651) Visa is a free, online visa that permits passport holders from a list of eligible European countries to visit Australia for tourism or business visitor purposes. It is designed to simplify short-term travel to Australia and allows multiple entries over a 12-month validity period, with each visit lasting up to 3 months.

The eVisitor is ideal for holidaymakers, family visitors, and business travelers who do not intend to work or stay long-term in Australia.

Key Features

• Cost: Free of charge
• Application method: Online only (via ImmiAccount)
• Stay duration: Up to 3 months per visit
• Validity: 12 months from grant date
• Multiple entries allowed during visa validity
• No visa label or stamp required

What This Visa Allows

You can:

• Visit Australia for a holiday or to visit family and friends
• Enter Australia for short-term business visitor activities such as:
  • Attending conferences or trade shows
  • Making general business or employment enquiries
  • Negotiating, reviewing, or signing contracts
• Undertake short-term study or training for up to 3 months
• Travel in and out of Australia multiple times

Who Can Apply

You must:

• Hold a passport from an eligible European country
• Be outside Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted
• Intend to stay temporarily and not engage in paid work
• Meet Australia's health, character, and security requirements

Eligible Countries for eVisitor 651 (As of 2025)

The eVisitor is only available to passport holders from European Union member countries and a few additional European nations.

Note: If your passport country is not listed, you may be eligible for the Subclass 600 Visitor Visa or Subclass 601 ETA.

Application Process

Step 1: Create ImmiAccount

• Visit the official website at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
• Register or log in to your ImmiAccount

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Valid passport from an eligible country
• Personal and travel details
• Any required health or character documentation

Step 3: Submit Application

• Select eVisitor (651) in ImmiAccount
• Fill out the form
• No fee is required
• Submit application and wait for visa decision

Step 4: Monitor Status

• Most decisions are quick, but complex applications may take longer
• You will be notified via email when your visa is granted

Processing Time

Applications that require additional checks (e.g., medicals, character assessment) can take several weeks.

Visa Conditions

• No paid work is allowed
• You can study for up to 3 months
• Must leave Australia before your stay limit ends (maximum 3 months per visit)
• Health insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended
• You must comply with all Australian laws and visa conditions

Common Use Cases

1. Short-Term Holidays
   European tourists visiting Australia’s landmarks, beaches, or cities for up to 3 months.

2. Family Visits
   Relatives of Australian citizens or PRs attending birthdays, weddings, or holidays.

3. Business Visitors
   Professionals attending business meetings, expos, or engaging in industry networking.

4. Gap Year & Backpackers (EU Citizens)
   Travelers exploring Australia as part of broader global travel, without intending to work.

Common Hurdles

1. Passport Eligibility Confusion
   Applicants from non-eligible countries often mistakenly apply for this visa and are rejected.

2. Health & Character Flags
   Any prior criminal history, tuberculosis, or past immigration issues can delay or result in a refusal.

3. Overstays or Suspicious Travel History
   Frequent or long past visits without strong ties to home country may be flagged.

4. Incorrect ImmiAccount Information
   Incomplete or inaccurate data in your ImmiAccount can slow down processing or result in refusal.

5. Applying from Within Australia
   This visa is only available offshore. You must be outside Australia to apply and receive the grant.

FAQs

Can I work in Australia with the eVisitor Visa?

No. Paid work is strictly prohibited. You may engage in business visitor activities, but not employment.

How long can I stay in Australia on each visit?

You can stay up to 3 months per entry. The visa is valid for 12 months, allowing multiple visits within that period.

Can I extend my eVisitor Visa while in Australia?

No. If you wish to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for another visa such as a Subclass 600 Visitor Visa.

Is the eVisitor Visa really free?

Yes, there is no cost to apply for or receive the 651 eVisitor Visa.

Do I need travel insurance?

It’s not required by law, but strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies and unexpected events.

What if my application is refused?

You may explore alternative options such as the Subclass 600 Visitor Visa. A refusal does not always affect future applications but should be reviewed carefully.

Trends & Insights

• UK, Germany, and France are among the highest issuers of 651 visas.
• There's an increasing number of digital nomads and remote workers attempting to use this visa for long-term stays — which is not permitted.
• Frequent travelers between Australia and the EU often prefer this visa for ease of access.
• Post-COVID, border re-openings have seen significant surges in 651 applications, especially during peak holiday seasons (December to March).

Useful Links

• Apply for eVisitor Visa (ImmiAccount)
• Official 651 Visa Page – Home Affairs
• Visa conditions and requirements

Need Help?

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Compare visa subclasses, check the latest eligibility updates, or get in touch with one of our recommended migration agents for more complex cases.

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