How long can you get a visa for in Australia?

Australian Visa Duration: Extended Stay Options

Australia offers a comprehensive visa system that caters to various travel purposes and durations. Among the available visa types, some provide extended entry and stay privileges, allowing visitors to explore the country for an extended period.

Multi-Year Visas: Up to a Decade of Entry

Certain visa categories grant entry for multiple years, offering long-term access to Australia. These visas include:

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): Designed for highly skilled workers migrating to Australia permanently, this visa allows entry for up to 10 years.
• Subclass 888 (Business Innovation and Investment Visa): This visa is for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to establish or invest in a business in Australia. It grants entry for up to four years, with the possibility of extension.

Visitor Visas: Three-Month Stays

For leisure or short-term business trips, Australia issues visitor visas with a standard validity of three months. These visas include:

• Subclass 600 (Tourist Visa): Allows visitors to enter Australia for tourism purposes for up to three months.
• Subclass 601 (Electronic Travel Authority): A simplified online visa for citizens of eligible countries, enabling three months of entry for tourism or business.

Extended Stays on Visitor Visas:

While visitor visas typically limit stays to three months, there are options to extend the stay duration. Visitors can apply for an extension of their visa within Australia before it expires. The maximum extension period varies depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances.

Additional Considerations:

It’s important to note that the actual duration of stay may be less than the granted visa validity period. Visitors must comply with the departure date stated on their visa or visa grant notice. Overstaying a visa can result in penalties or deportation.

To ensure a hassle-free visit, it’s advisable to apply for the appropriate visa based on the intended purpose and duration of stay in Australia.