Australia Tourist Visa
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) · For Colombia citizens
Planning a trip to Australia as a Colombian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application: required documents, current fees of AUD 195, processing times of 3-6 weeks, and strategies to improve your chances. Proper preparation is essential for a successful application.
Australia Tourist Visa for Colombian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Colombia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current Colombian passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in Australia
Complete the online visa application through ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website
Copy of your Colombian cédula de ciudadanía
Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your trip and daily expenses in Australia
Documentation proving your employment status and income in Colombia
Details of your planned activities and accommodation in Australia
Evidence demonstrating your strong reasons to return to Colombia after your visit
Recent passport-sized photograph meeting Australian visa requirements
Recommended (Optional)
Certificate of judicial record (certificado de antecedentes judiciales) from Colombian authorities
While not mandatory, travel health insurance is strongly recommended
Application Process
All applications for Australian visitor visas from Colombia must be submitted online through the ImmiAccount system.1 The process involves four main steps:
1. Create ImmiAccount and Start Application
Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and create an ImmiAccount if you don’t have one.1 Select “Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)” and choose the Tourist stream. Complete all sections of the application form, including personal details, travel plans, and employment information.
2. Upload Supporting Documents
Upload all required documents to your application.1 These include your passport, national ID (cédula), bank statements, employment evidence, and proof of ties to Colombia. Ensure all documents are clear and legible. Spanish documents should include certified English translations.
3. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the AUD 195 application fee online using a credit or debit card.3 Payment must be completed for your application to be processed. Keep your payment receipt for your records.
4. Wait for Decision and Provide Biometrics if Required
Processing typically takes 3-6 weeks.4 You may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a designated collection centre. You may also be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview. Track your application status through ImmiAccount.
Fees
| Service | Cost (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | AUD 195 | Tourist stream base fee |
| Biometrics Collection | AUD 42 | If required |
| Document Translation | Varies | For Spanish documents |
| Medical Examination | Varies | If requested |
All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.3
What You Need to Prove
According to Australian immigration requirements, you must demonstrate that you are a genuine visitor.1 This means showing:
- Genuine intention to visit Australia temporarily for tourism and return to Colombia1
- Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay without working1
- Strong ties to Colombia that give you reason to return (family, employment, property)1
- Good character and no history of immigration violations1
- Valid travel documents including a current Colombian passport1
Processing Times
Current processing times for Visitor Visa applications from Colombia are 3-6 weeks (21-45 working days).4
Processing may take longer if:
- Your application is incomplete or requires additional information4
- You need to provide biometrics or attend an interview
- Additional background checks are required
- You apply during peak season (October-February)
Apply at least 6 weeks before your intended travel date to allow sufficient processing time.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, you will receive notification through ImmiAccount and via email. Your visa grant will be linked electronically to your passport number. Print or save a copy of your visa grant letter for your records.
At the Australian border, you may be asked to show:
- Your passport with adequate validity
- Evidence of return or onward travel
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of funds
- Details of your travel plans
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive written notification explaining the reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation that addresses the issues raised
- Seek advice from a registered migration agent for complex cases
- Consider timing and reapply when your circumstances have changed
There is no formal merits review available for visitor visa refusals made outside Australia. A refusal does not permanently prevent future applications, but you must address the concerns raised in any new application.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds to cover the trip, or show suspicious patterns such as large unexplained deposits close to the application date.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent balance and regular income. Avoid large deposits in the weeks before applying. Include all savings accounts and fixed-term deposits (CDTs).
Weak Ties to Colombia
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Colombia after the visit, such as stable employment, property ownership, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure of 1+ years, property certificates (certificado de tradición), evidence of family dependents, or ongoing business commitments.
Incomplete Documentation
Application contains missing documents, unclear translations, or information that cannot be verified. Documents are not in English or lack certified translations.
How to avoid: Double-check all requirements. Provide certified English translations for all Spanish documents. Ensure all information is consistent across documents.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in Australia or other countries raises concerns about compliance with immigration rules.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about previous issues. Provide evidence of changed circumstances and explain how your situation has improved since any previous refusal.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit seems implausible, or the itinerary does not match the visa duration or applicant's profile.
How to avoid: Provide a clear, detailed, and realistic itinerary. If visiting family or friends, include invitation letters with their Australian residency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Australia on a tourist visa?
The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows you to stay for 3, 6, or 12 months depending on the visa granted. Most Colombian applicants receive visas for 3 or 6 months. You cannot extend your stay beyond the visa validity.
Can I work on an Australian tourist visa?
No, the Visitor Visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid work in Australia. This includes freelance work and volunteer positions. If you need to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa.
How long does visa processing take for Colombians?
Processing typically takes 3-6 weeks (21-45 working days) from the date of application. During peak season (October-February), processing may take longer. Apply at least 6 weeks before your planned travel date.
What is the Australia tourist visa fee for Colombians in 2025?
The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application fee is AUD 195 for the Tourist stream. Additional fees may apply for biometrics collection (AUD 42) if required.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
No, you should not book non-refundable flights before your visa is approved. You can provide a travel itinerary showing intended dates and destinations without confirmed bookings.
Can I apply for an ETA instead of a visitor visa?
No, Colombian citizens are not eligible for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor. You must apply for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) through ImmiAccount.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a notification explaining the reasons for refusal. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues raised. There is no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals made outside Australia.
Do I need biometrics for an Australian visa?
Biometrics may be required based on your circumstances. If needed, you will be notified to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre or partner location to provide fingerprints and a photograph.