How much money should I have for a visitor visa?

Beyond the Fees: How to Financially Prepare for Your Australian Visitor Visa

Planning a trip Down Under? The golden beaches, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife are all waiting, but first, you’ll need to secure your Australian visitor visa. While understanding the visa application fees is crucial, knowing how much money you should have to present a strong case is arguably even more important. It’s not just about covering the visa cost; it’s about demonstrating to the Australian Department of Home Affairs that you can financially support yourself during your stay and won’t become a burden on the Australian taxpayer.

Understanding the Official Costs:

Let’s get the known figures out of the way. The application fees for an Australian visitor visa vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for:

• Visitor Visa (Subclass 600): This is the most common visitor visa and the fee varies depending on the “stream” you’re applying under. This stream could be Tourist Stream, Business Visitor Stream, or Sponsored Family Stream. Application fees range from AUD$195 to AUD$1,435. It’s crucial to determine which stream is appropriate for your trip and understand the associated fee. You can find details and updated pricing on the Department of Home Affairs website.
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA – Subclass 601): If you hold a passport from an eligible country (including Andorra), you can potentially apply for an ETA online. This is a faster and cheaper option than the Subclass 600 visa. The ETA application fee is AUD$20.

Beyond the Application Fee: Proving Financial Capacity

While the application fee is a set cost, the real question is: how much money should you demonstrate you have access to? The Australian Department of Home Affairs wants assurance that you can cover your expenses during your stay, including:

• Accommodation: Hotel costs, Airbnb, or even proof of free accommodation with friends or family.
• Living Expenses: Food, transportation, entertainment, and other daily necessities.
• Health Insurance: Essential for covering any unexpected medical expenses.
• Return Flight: Proof of a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.

What Kind of Proof is Required?

You’ll need to provide evidence to support your claim. This can include:

• Bank Statements: Demonstrating sufficient funds in your account to cover your estimated expenses.
• Pay Slips: If you are employed, pay slips can demonstrate a regular income stream.
• Tax Returns: Providing insight into your financial stability.
• Credit Card Statements: Showcasing available credit, although this shouldn’t be your primary source of funds.
• Sponsorship Letter (if applicable): If someone is sponsoring your trip, include a formal letter from the sponsor outlining their commitment and proof of their financial capacity.

Estimating Your Expenses: A Practical Guide

There’s no magic number, as the required amount depends entirely on the length and nature of your stay. However, a good starting point is to research the average daily cost of living in the cities you plan to visit. Here’s a rough estimate:

• Budget Traveler: AUD$75 – AUD$120 per day (hostels, self-catering, public transport).
• Mid-Range Traveler: AUD$150 – AUD$300 per day (comfortable hotels, some restaurant meals, occasional tours).
• Luxury Traveler: AUD$300+ per day (high-end hotels, fine dining, private tours).

Example: If you’re planning a 2-week trip to Sydney as a mid-range traveler, you should demonstrate access to at least AUD$2,100 – AUD$4,200 excluding the cost of your return flight and visa fees.

Important Considerations:

• Honesty is Key: Always be truthful in your application. Providing false or misleading information can lead to visa refusal.
• Evidence is Crucial: Back up your claims with solid documentation. Don’t just state that you have enough money; prove it.
• Currency Conversion: Provide your financial documentation in Australian dollars (AUD) or include a clear conversion rate.
• Seek Professional Advice: If you’re unsure about the financial requirements or have complex circumstances, consider consulting with a registered migration agent.

By focusing on demonstrating your financial capacity, and not just paying the application fee, you’ll significantly improve your chances of a successful Australian visitor visa application and pave the way for an unforgettable trip. Remember to thoroughly research your estimated expenses and provide clear, compelling evidence to support your claim. Good luck!