Australia Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Multiple entry options available for frequent business travellers
- Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) available for eligible nationalities
- Allows attendance at conferences, trade fairs, and seminars
- Perfect for contract negotiations and site inspections
- Streamlined online application process for most applicants
- Valid for short-term stays of up to three months per visit
Processing time
1 - 25 working days
ETA and eVisitor grants are often automated and received within minutes, while Subclass 600 visas require manual assessment.
Estimated cost
$25 - $190
- Base application charge (Subclass 600)$130 - $145
- Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601) service fee$0 - $25
- Biometrics collection fee (if applicable)$20 - $50
Requirements
- Must be a genuine visitor intending to stay temporarily
- Must have sufficient funds to support yourself during the stay
- Must meet Australia's health and character requirements
- Intention to participate in 'business visitor activities' only
- No intention to work or provide services to Australian entities
- Valid passport from an eligible country for your specific subclass
- Evidence of professional ties in your home country (e.g., employment)
- A clean criminal record and no outstanding debts to the Australian government
- Proof of business purpose, such as an invitation letter or event ticket
- Compliance with any previous Australian visa conditions
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond stay
- Evidence of business activities (conference registration, meeting invites)
- Current employment contract or business registration documents
- Professional reference letters from Australian companies (if applicable)
- Bank statements for the last three months
- A detailed travel itinerary and return flight reservations
- Health insurance certificate for the duration of stay
- Letter from employer stating the purpose and duration of the trip
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Identify the correct visa subclass
Determine if you are eligible for an ETA, eVisitor, or the standard Subclass 600 Visitor Visa based on your passport nationality.
- 2
Prepare your documentation
Gather all digital copies of your passport, employment letters, bank statements, and business invitation documents to ensure a smooth upload.
- 3
Create an ImmiAccount
Create an ImmiAccount on the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website to start and manage your application.
- 4
Complete the online application
Fill out the online application accurately, ensuring all business activity details match your supporting documentation.
- 5
Submit and pay fees
Pay the application fee using a credit card or PayPal; note that the fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
- 6
Provide biometrics if required
If requested, visit a designated collection centre to provide your fingerprints and a digital photograph.
- 7
Receive visa decision
Wait for the notification via your ImmiAccount. If granted, your visa will be electronically linked to your passport.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your invitation letter is on official company letterhead and includes specific dates.
- Never book non-refundable flights until your visa has been officially granted.
- Be specific about your 'business activities' to avoid confusion with work.
- Check that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your planned date of departure.
- Declare any criminal convictions, no matter how minor or old, to avoid 'bogus document' bans.
- Submit high-quality colour scans of all documents, as blurry images can lead to delays.
Frequently asked questions
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.