Australia’s immigration policies are welcoming and make it relatively easy to secure a temporary Visa in general. However, for visitors from ‘high risk’ countries, additional scrutiny is applied. The Philippines is considered a ‘high-risk’ country, as a result of a high number of visa overstayers. Unfortunately, this means that it is generally more difficult to get an Australian visa from the Philippines – and it also usually takes longer to process, so it’s important to lodge your application as early as possible.
To get a tourist visa from the Philippines to Australia, the visa subclass 600 is the correct visa option for anyone from the Philippines planning a vacation, family visit, or short study trip.
How long will a visitor visa to Australia from the Philippines be valid for?
The tourist Visa permits a maximum of 12-month stay in Australia – but realistically, the longest visa typically granted is 3 months for tourism purposes (a longer visa may be granted in certain circumstances, such as caring for a family member in Australia who is unwell, but it’s quite rare).
Can I study on a subclass 600 visa?
Yes – Philippines citizens can study or train for up to three months on a Visitor Visa (Tourist Stream) (Subclass 600). Any longer and you will need to apply for a student visa.
How hard is it to apply for an Australian Visitor Visa (subclass 600) from the Philippines?
The application process online is quick, it should take only a few hours of your time. However, before commencing the application process, you should ensure that all the required documents are at your disposal to lodge your application.
We have provided a simplified step-by-step guide below to help you through the application process. It’s important to note, however, that your visa application journey may differ based on your own circumstances and the individual proclivities of your visa processing officer. The important thing is to always be completely truthful and up-front; as long as you are legitimate and provide all necessary information you should not have issues getting your visa.
Can I extend my Australian visitor visa to stay longer?
The Subclass 600 visa cannot be extended to allow you to stay in Australia for a longer period. You would be required to apply for a different visa in Australia, and that would depend on your individual circumstances. If your current visa has a condition that prevents further stay, such as condition number 8503, “No Further Stay,” you are not eligible to apply for a new visa while you are in Australia.
If you hope to remain in Australia for an extended period or permanently, you must apply for the appropriate visa before your current visa expires.
Visitor visa processing time from Philippines to Australia
As of 23 January 2023, the estimated processing time for visitor visa applications from the Philippines is within
- 8 Days for 25% of applications
- 16 days for 50% of applications
- 33 days for 75% of applications
- 85 days for 90% of applications
Guide – Process to apply for your Australian Subclass 600 Visitor Visa
1. Determine if you are eligible for a visitor visa
The purpose of your travel will dictate what options are available for you. If the primary purpose of your trip to Australia is tourism, a subclass 600 visitor visa is best. As mentioned earlier, this visitor visa allows a stay up to 3 months in ordinary circumstances. It is also possible to
2. Prepare the required documents
For the visitor visa subclass 600, you will need:
- A valid passport -scanned bio that shows your name and other passport details.
- A passport-sized photo
- Itinerary for your trip (including dates and places you plan on visiting/staying)
Additional documents that will help your application include:
- Proof of financial capability-you can attach bank statements and credit card limit to prove that you have the financial ability to sustain yourself for the stay and book a ticket back to the Philippines.
- Invitation letter – if you are visiting a person or for a specific event.
- Evidence of current employment -could be in the form of payslips or leave documents from your employer. This is critical to prove you will return to the Philippines.
- Crucial ties that prove you will return home; Here, you can show your educational letter, work leave, and important assets that bind you to return to the Philippines.
A combination of these documents should give comfort to the case officer that you are a legitimate visitor and will depart Australia at the expiry of your visa. Finally, you may be asked to provide additional documents (such as a police clearance certificate or health check) as part of the process – but most applicants from the Philippines do not require these.
3. Open an Immi Account
After ensuring you have all the required documents, you need to open an Immi account, the Department of Home Affairs platform through which all visa applications are made.
4. Fill out an online application
You should opt for the visitor 600 option in your form, where you will upload personal information, expected travel dates, and financial status. If you are visiting a family or friend, you should upload their information in a clear format. Clarity and specificity are essential to secure a Visa with minimal complications. The more information you can provide the better.
5. Attach the necessary documents
You can refer to step 2 above to get an idea of the required documents. The application is accompanied by documents that show your financial ability to fund the travel and stay. It is crucial that you scan bank statements and payroll evidence. s6. Proceed to Pay
After going through the form multiple times and cross-checking that every document is in place, you should proceed to pay.
6. Pay the Visa Application Charge
Visa Application Charge – Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600):
As at 25 Jan 2023, the Visa Application Charge is 150 AUD (per applicant, including children).
7. Wait until Visa grant (or a request for further information)
Once your application is approved, a Visa Grant notice is sent by email. As your visa is electronically attached to your passport there is no need to print it.
All the best in your application for Australian visa for filipinos– we hope to see you downunder soon!
