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
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.