What is the difference between 651 and 600 visa Australia?

Understanding the Difference Between the 651 and 600 Visas for Australia

Australia offers various visa options to visitors from different countries. The 651 and 600 visas are two commonly used visas for tourism, family visits, and other short-term purposes. While both visas allow entry into Australia, they have distinct features and eligibility criteria.

651 eVisitor Visa

The 651 eVisitor visa is an electronic visa that grants entry to Australia for visitors from specific eligible countries. It is a visa-free travel facility for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.

Eligibility:

• Citizens of eligible countries, including Andorra, Argentina, Brunei, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and the United States.
• Must possess a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity.

Usage:

• Tourism, family visits, or business purposes.
• Multiple entries within the 12-month validity period.
• Cannot be extended or converted to another visa type.

600 Tourist Visa

The 600 tourist visa is a visitor visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Australia for tourism, family visits, or cruises. It is granted for a specific duration, which can range from 3 months to 12 months.

Eligibility:

• Citizens of any country who meet the character and health requirements.
• Must possess a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity.
• Provide sufficient evidence of funds to support themselves during their stay.

Usage:

• Tourism, family visits, or cruises.
• Single or multiple entries within the granted visa period.
• Can be extended or converted to another visa type, subject to eligibility.

Key Differences

The primary difference between the 651 and 600 visas lies in their eligibility criteria and duration of stay.

• Eligibility: The 651 visa is available only to citizens of specific eligible countries, while the 600 visa is open to citizens of all countries.
• Duration: The 651 visa allows for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 12-month period, while the 600 visa can be granted for a duration of 3 to 12 months.
• Multiple entries: The 651 visa permits multiple entries within the validity period, while the 600 visa may also allow multiple entries, depending on the specific visa conditions.
• Extensibility: The 651 visa cannot be extended or converted to another visa type, whereas the 600 visa can potentially be extended or converted, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.

Choosing the appropriate visa depends on the individual’s eligibility, intended purpose of visit, and duration of stay. It is recommended to consult with the Australian Department of Home Affairs for specific visa requirements and guidance.