Tourist Visa 600 Overview
The Tourist visa (subclass 600) is the most common visitor visa for Chinese citizens wanting to visit Australia for holidays, family visits, business meetings, or short-term study. It offers multiple streams with different benefits and stay periods.
Four Visa Streams Comparison
| Stream | Purpose | Stay Duration | Visa Validity | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Stream | Holiday, sightseeing, visiting friends | Up to 3, 6, or 12 months | Usually 12 months | $190 |
| Business Visitor Stream | Business meetings, conferences, negotiations | Up to 3 months per visit | Usually 12 months | $190 |
| Sponsored Family Stream | Visiting family members in Australia | Up to 12 months | Usually 12-18 months | $190 |
| Frequent Traveller Stream | Multiple visits for eligible Chinese | Up to 3 months per visit | 10 years | $1,235 |
Chinese Citizens Special Note:
The Frequent Traveller stream is particularly valuable for Chinese business people or those with family in Australia. While expensive upfront, it offers significant convenience for regular visitors over 10 years - equivalent to just $123 per year.
Complete Document Checklist
Essential Documents (All Applicants)
| Document | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Passport | Valid for at least 6 months from travel date | All pages showing stamps/visas |
| Passport Photos | 45mm x 35mm, white background, recent | Professional studio recommended |
| Form 1419 | Application for a Visitor Visa | Complete online via ImmiAccount |
| Chinese ID Card | Both sides, certified translation | Must be valid and current |
| Household Registration (Hukou) | Original + certified English translation | Shows ties to China |
Financial Evidence (Choose Multiple)
- Bank Statements: Last 3 months from all accounts showing regular income/savings (minimum $5,000 AUD equivalent recommended)
- Employment Letter: Salary, position, leave approval, company letterhead with contact details
- Business License: If self-employed, provide business registration and recent tax returns
- Property Ownership: Real estate certificates showing property value and ownership
- Investment Statements: Stock portfolios, mutual funds, or other investment accounts
- Sponsor Financial Support: If someone else is funding the trip, provide their bank statements and support letter
Travel Documentation
- Detailed Itinerary: Day-by-day travel plan showing cities, activities, and duration
- Flight Bookings: Return tickets or detailed booking confirmations (dont need to purchase until visa granted)
- Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings, Airbnb confirmations, or family accommodation letters
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance covering entire stay (minimum $50,000 coverage recommended)
- Tour Bookings: If joining tours, provide booking confirmations and tour company details
Family Visit Additional Documents
| Document | Description | From Whom |
|---|---|---|
| Invitation Letter | Detailed letter explaining relationship, visit purpose, duration | Australian family member |
| Sponsor ID | Australian passport, citizenship certificate, or PR visa | Australian family member |
| Relationship Evidence | Birth certificates, marriage certificates, photos together | Both parties |
| Sponsor Finances | Bank statements, employment letter, tax returns | Australian family member |
| Accommodation Letter | Letter confirming free accommodation if staying with family | Australian family member |
Application Process Step-by-Step
Phase 1: Document Preparation (2-4 weeks)
- Gather Documents: Collect all required documents and arrange certified translations
- Financial Planning: Ensure adequate funds showing in bank statements for at least 3 months
- Travel Planning: Research itinerary, book accommodation, arrange travel insurance
- Professional Photos: Take new passport photos meeting Australian standards
Phase 2: Online Application (1-2 hours)
- Create ImmiAccount: Register at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
- Complete Form 1419: Answer all questions accurately and consistently
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload all supporting documents in PDF format
- Pay Application Fee: $190 AUD via credit card or bank transfer
- Submit Application: Review everything carefully before final submission
Phase 3: Processing and Decision
| Processing Stage | Timeframe | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment | 1-5 days | Application checked for completeness |
| Document Review | 5-20 days | Case officer reviews all evidence |
| Additional Information | Variable | Request for more documents if needed |
| Final Decision | 1-3 days | Approval or refusal notification |
| Total Processing | 15-35 days | Most Chinese applications |
Visa Costs Breakdown
| Cost Item | Amount (AUD) | Amount (CNY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Application Fee | $190 | ¥950 | All streams except Frequent Traveller |
| Frequent Traveller Fee | $1,235 | ¥6,175 | 10-year multiple entry |
| Document Translations | $300-600 | ¥1,500-3,000 | NAATI certified translations |
| Travel Insurance | $100-300 | ¥500-1,500 | Comprehensive coverage recommended |
| Health Examination | $300-500 | ¥1,500-2,500 | Only if requested by Department |
| Migration Agent | $800-2,000 | ¥4,000-10,000 | Optional professional assistance |
| Total Estimate | $600-2,500 | ¥3,000-12,500 | Excluding agent fees |
Visa Conditions and Restrictions
| Condition Code | Restriction | Violation Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| 8101 | No work permitted | Visa cancellation, 3-year exclusion period |
| 8201 | Study limited to 3 months maximum | Visa cancellation if exceed study period |
| 8531 | Health insurance required | Must maintain adequate health cover |
| 8558 | No criminal activities | Immediate cancellation and deportation |
Critical Warning:
Working on a tourist visa (even unpaid work or volunteering) is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate visa cancellation and a 3-year exclusion period from Australia. This includes any form of business activity beyond attending meetings.
Chinese Applicant Success Strategies
Strong Ties to China
- • Stable employment with letter confirming return date
- • Property ownership certificates and valuations
- • Family members remaining in China (spouse, children, parents)
- • Business interests requiring your presence in China
- • Bank accounts with regular salary deposits
Previous Travel History
- • Previous visits to Australia with compliance record
- • Travel to USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand
- • Schengen visa stamps and travel in Europe
- • Demonstrated pattern of returning home after travel
- • Clear passport showing departure stamps
Financial Capacity
- • Bank statements showing consistent savings pattern
- • Multiple income sources or investment portfolios
- • Ability to fund entire trip without borrowing
- • Regular salary deposits over several months
- • Credit card statements showing responsible use
Application Quality
- • All documents professionally translated by NAATI
- • Consistent information across all forms and documents
- • Detailed and realistic travel itinerary
- • Professional photos meeting exact specifications
- • Clear, truthful answers to all questions
Common Refusal Reasons and How to Avoid
| Refusal Reason | Prevention Strategy | Key Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Insufficient ties to China | Demonstrate multiple reasons to return | Property, employment, family, business |
| Inadequate financial capacity | Show stable finances over 3+ months | Bank statements, salary evidence, assets |
| Inconsistent information | Ensure all documents align perfectly | Cross-check dates, names, addresses |
| Poor travel history | Build positive travel record gradually | Previous compliance with other countries |
| Unclear visit purpose | Provide detailed, realistic itinerary | Bookings, tour plans, family letters |
| Health or character concerns | Disclose all health/character issues upfront | Medical reports, police clearances |
Reapplication After Refusal:
If refused, wait at least 6-12 months before reapplying and address ALL refusal reasons comprehensively. Consider engaging a migration agent for complex cases or after previous refusals.
Chinese Community Specific Tips
WeChat Groups and Resources
- Australian Consulate WeChat: Follow official consulate accounts for updates
- Travel Groups: Join Chinese traveler groups for practical tips and experiences
- Translation Services: Use NAATI certified Chinese translators familiar with visa documents
- Insurance Providers: Choose insurers that provide documentation in both Chinese and English
Peak Season Planning
| Period | Application Volume | Processing Time | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese New Year (Jan-Feb) | Very High | 6-8 weeks | Apply 3 months early |
| Summer Holidays (Jun-Aug) | High | 4-6 weeks | Apply 2 months early |
| Golden Week (Oct) | High | 3-5 weeks | Apply 6-8 weeks early |
| Regular Periods | Normal | 2-4 weeks | Standard processing |
While in Australia - Important Information
Extending Your Stay
- Extension Applications: Must apply before current visa expires
- Compelling Circumstances: Medical emergencies, family emergencies, or unforeseen events
- Supporting Evidence: Medical certificates, death certificates, or other official documentation
- Processing Time: Usually 2-4 weeks, apply early
- Cost: Same as original application ($190)
Emergency Contacts and Resources
| Service | Contact | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Services | 000 | Police, ambulance, fire |
| Chinese Consulate Sydney | (02) 8595 8000 | Consular assistance |
| Chinese Consulate Melbourne | (03) 9822 0604 | Consular assistance |
| Department of Home Affairs | 131 881 | Visa inquiries and issues |
| Tourist Hotline | 1300 661 225 | Tourism information |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for multiple entry visits?
A: Most 600 visas are granted as multiple entry, allowing you to leave and return to Australia multiple times within the visa validity period. However, each stay must not exceed the maximum stay period granted.
Q: What if I overstay my visa?
A: Overstaying results in automatic visa cancellation and a 3-year exclusion period. You must leave Australia immediately and cannot return for 3 years. In exceptional circumstances, apply for a Bridging Visa E to regularize your status.
Q: Can family members apply together?
A: Yes, family members can be included in one application. Each person pays the application fee, but you can share supporting documents where relevant (like financial evidence from the main applicant).
Q: Is travel insurance mandatory?
A: While not legally required for visa grant, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and may be specifically requested by the case officer. Some visa conditions require adequate health insurance.
Q: Can I attend business meetings on a tourist visa?
A: Limited business activities like attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations are permitted. However, any form of work (including unpaid work) is strictly prohibited. Use the Business Visitor stream for business purposes.
Next Steps
Ready to Apply?
- Choose Your Stream: Determine which visa stream best suits your travel purpose
- Gather Documents: Start collecting and translating all required documentation
- Financial Preparation: Ensure your bank statements show adequate funds for 3+ months
- Create ImmiAccount: Register online and begin your application
- Professional Help: Consider migration agent assistance for complex applications or previous refusals
The Tourist Visa 600 is your gateway to experiencing Australia. With proper preparation and documentation, most Chinese citizens can successfully obtain this visa and enjoy their Australian adventure.