Australia Tourist Visa
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) · For South Africa citizens
Planning a trip to Australia as a South African citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application: required documents, current fees of AUD 190, processing times of 3-4 weeks, and strategies to improve your chances. With proper preparation and strong documentation, you can secure your Australian visa.
Australia Tourist Visa for South African Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For South Africa citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Australia
Complete the online visa application through ImmiAccount on the Australian immigration website
Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your trip and daily expenses in Australia
Documentation proving your employment status and income in South Africa
Details of your planned activities and accommodation in Australia
Fingerprints and photograph taken at VFS Global visa application centre
Recommended (Optional)
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to South Africa
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses in Australia
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online through ImmiAccount on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.1 The process involves several steps:
1. Create ImmiAccount
Register for an ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. This online portal allows you to submit and track your application.1
2. Complete Online Application
Fill out the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application form.1 Provide details about your travel plans, employment, finances, and health declarations. Pay the AUD 190 visa fee online.
3. Upload Supporting Documents
Upload clear scans of your passport, bank statements, employment letter, and other supporting documents through ImmiAccount.1
4. Provide Biometrics
Book an appointment at VFS Global in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, or Durban to provide your fingerprints and photograph.2 Bring your passport and appointment confirmation.
5. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes 3-4 weeks.1 You can track your application status through ImmiAccount. You will receive notification when a decision is made.
Fees
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) | AUD 190 | Standard tourist stream |
| VFS Global Service Fee | ~R450 | Biometric collection |
| SMS Updates | ~R50 | Optional |
| Courier Return | ~R200 | Optional passport delivery |
Additional costs may include document translation (for non-English documents) and medical examinations if requested.
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 temporarily and leave before your visa expires1
- Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay without working1
- Good health and meeting character requirements1
- Valid travel document with adequate validity1
Processing Times
The current processing time for Visitor Visa applications from South Africa is 3-4 weeks.1 According to the Department of Home Affairs:
- 75% of applications are processed within 29 days
- 90% of applications are processed within 42 days
Processing may take longer if:1
- Your application is incomplete or requires additional information
- You need to undergo health examinations
- Background checks take additional time
- Peak travel season increases application volumes
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be linked electronically to your passport. There is no visa sticker. You can verify your visa grant through VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online).
At the Australian border, you may be asked to show:
- Return or onward flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Details of your travel plans
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the specific reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues raised
- Request merits review in limited circumstances
- Seek migration agent advice for complex cases
A refusal does not automatically prevent future applications, but you must address the concerns raised in your new application.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate 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. Budget AUD 150-200 per day plus accommodation. Ensure funds are clearly available, not locked in investments.
Weak Ties to South Africa
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to South Africa after the visit, such as stable employment, property ownership, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure, property documents if you own any, evidence of family dependents, or ongoing business commitments.
Incomplete Documentation
Application contains missing documents or poor quality scans. Critical information is not clearly visible or documents are not translated.
How to avoid: Upload high-quality colour scans of all documents. Ensure all pages are included. Provide certified translations for documents not in English.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals or overstays in Australia or other countries raises concerns about compliance with immigration rules.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues in your application. Provide evidence of changed circumstances and explain how your situation has improved.
Health or Character Concerns
Applicant does not meet health requirements or has character issues such as criminal history that require additional assessment.
How to avoid: Disclose any health conditions or criminal history upfront. Provide police clearance certificates and medical reports if requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Australia on a tourist visa?
The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows stays of 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your application. Most tourist applications are granted for 3 months. You cannot extend your visa while in Australia in most cases.
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 business activities beyond attending meetings. If you need to work, consider a Working Holiday Visa if eligible.
How long does Australian visa processing take from South Africa?
Standard processing takes 3-4 weeks for most applications. 75% of applications are processed within 29 days. During peak season (November to February), processing may take longer.
What is the Australian tourist visa fee for South Africans in 2025?
The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) costs AUD 190 for online applications. Additional VFS Global service fees of approximately R450 apply when submitting biometrics.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
No, you do not need confirmed flight bookings to apply. The Australian government recommends not booking non-refundable travel until your visa is approved.
Is there an e-visa available for South Africans?
South African citizens are not eligible for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa. You must apply for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) through the full application process.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues. There is generally no formal appeal process for visitor visa refusals.