Australia Visitor Visa Processing Time from India in 2025

Written by

Dr. Himanshi Sharma

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Feb 22,2025

Australia Visitor Visa Processing Time from India in 2025 - TerraTern

Planning your Canada PR
Free last minute checklist

Australia is the land of diverse landscapes, rich indigenous culture and wild animals. The country boasts a strong economy, a high quality of life and a deep love for wildlife and sports like no other. Naturally it attracts a lot of people from all over the world to travel, settle, work and much more. People often end up on Google with questions such as - How long is the Australia visitor visa processing time? What are the types of visas issued? What are the tourist places in Australia that you should explore?

This brings us to the next plan of action. Planning a trip to Australia? What is the purpose? A fun time visiting the beautiful Great Barrier Reef with family and friends? An important business trip that might boost your work life to another level? A course that will alter your career path and set you apart from everyone? Or maybe you fell in love with the thought of relocating to the beautiful country altogether? If your answer is yes to any of the above questions, then you’ve come to the right place.

As a great beginning to 2025, the Department of Home Affairs has new digital verification, which has reduced Australia Visitor Visa Processing Time for low-risk applicants. So here we’ll guide you on your next step with the travel plans that is – Visa. And much more. So, dive into understanding the current Australia visitor visa processing time and the steps to take for a smooth and efficient journey!

 

Understanding Australia Visitor Visa Processing Time in 2025

Travelling to Australia requires a lot of thoughtfulness, work and meticulous planning. Does that worry you? Fret not; a step-by-step approach can help you plan it with ease and make it a ride of life! The Australia Visitor Visa processing time depends on various factors which are important to know and are of utmost relevance in accordance to the 2025 statistics.

Due to the streamlining of current visitor visa processing time, business visitor visa processing time and recent policy changes, there has been a significant impact in visa applications, particularly in the education sector.

Factors affecting Visa processing duration

There are multiple factors that can affect Australia visitor visa processing time, which are listed below –

  • Accuracy of application – Submitting a well-informed and correct application speeds up processing.
  • The volume of applications – High demand periods such as major holidays can slow down processing due to excessive workload and an increase in the number of applications.
  • Security and Background checks – Applications that require extensive background checks and include character or security assessments take longer.
  • Health and medical conditions – If a medical examination is required on a prior basis to grant the visa, it may delay the Australia visitor visa processing time until results are reviewed.
  • Financial proof and sponsorship verifications – Verifying financial details before processing visas is a crucial part of visa delays for many applicants.
  • Nationality and country of residence- Some countries require additional scrutiny and security clearance, thus sometimes delaying Australia visitor visa processing time.
  • Previous Immigration History – Any applicant with overstayed visas or refused entry applies for visitor or business visa, additional checks might be conducted.
  • Criminal record or legal issues – Any past convictions or legal matters can delay the Australia visitor visa processing time.
  • Response time to requests for additional information- Delays in responding to immigration requests for extra documents or additional verification will extend current visitor visa processing time in Australia.

Also read: Immigration To Australia: Everything You Need To Know

Average Processing Times for Different Visitor Visa Types for Indians

Australia Visitor Visa processing time varies differently depending on the type of visa you’ve applied for. 

Here is a summarised version of different types of visitor visas provided by the country with their purpose and current visa processing time Australia –

Visa Type and Subclass

Purpose of Visa

Processing time of Visa

Visitor Visa

(subclass 600)

A.Tourist stream – Leisure, visiting family and friends

20-33 days  

 

B.Business visitor stream –

Attending meetings, conferences and other business activities

9-20 days

 

C.Sponsored Family stream – Visiting family on sponsorship

50-70 days

Electronic Travel Authority ( ETA Subclass 601 )

Short-term tourism or business

(eligible nationalities)

Minutes to a few days

eVisitor Visa ( Subclass 651)

Short-term tourism or business ( European nationalities )

Minutes to a few days

Transit visa ( Subclass 771 )

Transit through Australia ( maximum allowance – 72 hours )

2 to 3 weeks

 

Australia visitor visa processing time may vary on the factors mentioned above and individual circumstances. (Specially business visitor visa Australia processing time can be very variable.) For more information, you can visit their official site

Australia Visitor Visa Processing Time from India: What to Expect?

If you’re an Indian applicant, here is a special section for you. A step-by-step guide on how to apply for your visa and travel worry-free to your destination. Australia visitor visa processing time from India is not as long as most people assume it to be. It’s the same as 20 to 33 days for visiting purposes.

Step-by-step Application Process for Indian Visitors

If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit your family and friends or going on a business trip, then this is for you.

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for your visa. Once you go through all the requirements and details thoroughly, you can start applying as soon as today!

STEP 1 – Determine the correct Visa Stream

Choosing the right visa stream will reduce your Australia visitor visa processing time from India. You’ve 3 major streams: Tourist stream, Business visitor stream and Sponsored family stream to choose from.

STEP 2 – Create an ImmiAccount

Firstly, go to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

Secondly, click on the “ImmiAccount” and select “Create An Account.”

Thirdly, enter your details carefully and correctly ( name, email and password ) Make sure to verify your mail.

STEP 3 – Complete the Online Visa application

Firstly, log in to ImmiAccount and click “New Application.”

Secondly, select “Visitor Visa subclass 600.”                    

Thirdly, fill out the Visa application form carefully. Ensure to double-check for accuracy and reliability of the information to avoid future mishaps or delays.

STEP 4 – Gather Required Documents

This is the most crucial part of the visa application process. Mistakes here can delay Australia visitor visa processing time from India.

Australia Visitor Visa Processing Time from India: What to Expect? - TerraTernAustralia Visitor Visa Processing Time from India: What to Expect? - TerraTern

STEP 5 – Pay the Visa Fee

The visitor visa fee for subclass 600 is approximately 10,500 rupees. This payment can be made online via credit/debit card, PayPal or BPAY.

Also Read: Australia Transit Visa from India: Get the Latest Details

STEP 6 – Schedule Biometrics Appointment

Once you’ve submitted your application, you will receive a biometric collection request. Once you’ve received the request, you need to visit a VFS Global Visa application centre in India to provide photographs and fingerprints. For booking,g visit VFS GLOBAL INDIA

STEP 7 – Medical Examination ( if req )

Some applicants may be required to undergo a health check-up at an authorised healthcare facility. If this is requested, please schedule an appointment with an Australian panel physician in India.

STEP 8 – Receive Visa Decision

If approved, You’ll receive an Electronic Visa Grant Notice via email.

If refused, you’ll be provided with the reason, and you may appeal or reapply.

Additional tips for Indian applicants –

·      Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel to reduce Australia visitor visa processing time from India.

·      Provide genuine intentions to avoid getting refused

·      Ensure all documents are correct and in English or include certified translations.

Do all these steps make you feel dizzy? Would you like help in drafting a cover letter? Or reducing your Australia visitor visa processing time? Head over to Terratern Australia

Current Visitor Visa Processing Time Australia: Latest Updates

As of February 2025, the latest and current visitor visa processing time Australia has these major updates –

·      For Visa Application Process – The Australian Department of Home Affairs mandates that all visitor visas of subclass 600 must be lodged via ImmiAccount. This is for more efficiency and a significant reduction in Australia visitor Visa processing time.

·      Policy on Visa Hopping – This new policy which has been effective since July 2024, prohibits individuals in Australia on visitor or temporary graduate visas to extend stays by switching visa categories. The graduates must exit the country to apply for student visas.

·      Current visitor visa processing time Australia – Almost 75% of tourist visa applications are processed within 20 days and 90% within 33 days.

COVID-19 Impact on Visa Processing Times –

COVID-19 has affected tourism and had a major impact on travel policies of all countries. With international travel becoming harder than usual, some extra protocols were added to strengthen security and ensure safer travel to Australia. These significant changes were later modified or revised accordingly once the post-pandemic situation became clear.

· Closure of the COVID-19 Pandemic Event Visa – The visa, which was specially granted during the COVID pandemic under subclass 408, has ceased accepting new applications.

·      Expiration of COVID-19 Visa Concessions – The govt of Australia had these special concessions for eligible family visa applicants from February 2020 and were concluded in November 2023. Currently, standard visa regulations and fees apply to all visa applications.

·      No COVID vaccination proof required – As of July 2024, Australia has removed all COVID-19-related entry restrictions. Travellers can now travel freely without undergoing testing, quarantine upon arrival or proof of vaccination.

These updates in Australia’s travel show that the nation has moved forward in accordance with the post-pandemic situation and is a safe country to travel to. Travellers should stay up to date and consult officials for any issues.

Tips to Expedite Your Australia Visitor Visa Application

As experts say, “The Australian visa process is designed to be fair and transparent.” It’s important to know that while it may be challenging, thorough preparation can help applicants avoid pitfalls and delays in visitor visa processing time Australia significantly.

Here are some actions you can do/avoid accordingly to save yourself from complexities and get your visa approved –

·      Submit a complete, error-free application. “A well-prepared application will all required documents minimises visitor visa processing time Australia significantly.”, says John Smith, Immigration Consultant. Ensure that strong home ties are included.

· Apply for priority processing ( if available ). Some visas allow fast-track processing, especially business visas, to reduce business visitor visa Australia processing time. However, this section requires prior confirmation and an additional fee.

· Complete biometrics and medical examination early. If these are required by the authorities, then make sure to complete them before time to avoid bottlenecks.

·      Request a travel exemption  For urgent travel basis, you can submit a travel expedition request with proof of the urgency of travel like medical requirements or invitations.

·      Don’t just sit back and relax. Keep yourself updated by checking your application status on the portal. Answer back immediately if any queries arise on the portal. This timely intervention will significantly reduce Australia visitor visa processing time.

Don’t know how to fast-track your business visa or track your visitor visa application status? No worries. We’ve got you covered in our guide.

Business Visitor Visa Australia Processing Time: Fast-Track options

Planning to reduce business visitor visa Australia processing time? As an Indian passport holder seeking to visit Australia for business purposes, you can choose to expedite your visitor visa ( subclass 600 ) through fast-track service.

This service is available to applicants from India, UAE and China.

How to avail of this service?

·      To utilise this service, you need to pay an additional 1,000 Australian dollars on top of your regular application fee.

·      The Department of Home Affairs aims to process these applications within 48 hours, but this timeframe is not guaranteed.

·      To apply for this service, you need to complete form 1472 and submit it along with your visa application.

· An additional tip: if you’re a frequent business traveller within the Asia-Pacific region, you can apply for the APEC BUSINESS TRAVEL CARD. It allows visa-free travel for up to 90 days and provides fast-track lane access at major airports.

· For more up-to-date information, please contact the Australian High Commission in India.

Comparing Tourist and Business Visitor Visa Processing Times 2025

Visa stream

Purpose

75% of Applications processed in

90% of Applications processed in

Tourist Visa

For individuals travelling to Australia for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends

 

 

20 days

 

 

33 days

Business visa

For individuals visiting Australia for short-term business, such as attending conferences and negotiations.

 

 

9 days

 

 

20 days

These processing times are a comparison for you to decide which one works best for you. Try to apply in time to avoid delays in Australia visitor visa processing time.

Also Read: Australia Work Permit from India: Latest Guide

Tracking your Australia Visitor Visa Application Status

One of the major reasons why applicants face delays and refusals from the Department of Home Affairs is due to lack of communication. It’s very important to keep regular track of your application status and reply back immediately if they’ve any additional questions regarding your application.

This is a step-by-step guide on how to track your application status –

·      Log in to ImmiAccount – Visit ImmiAccount and sign in.

·      Check Application status – Go to “My Applications” and view the status

         Received = Submitted

         Initial/further assessment = Processing

         Finalised = Approved/Refused

·      Check emails – Look for updates in the mailbox from no reply Home Affairs

·      Contact support – Check Terratern if applied through us.

 

Conclusion: Navigating Australia’s Visitor Visa Process 2025

Australia is one of the most sought-after nations. Naturally, they have a strict but transparent visa process for either tourists or business travellers. To focus on getting accepted in one go and reduce Australia Visitor Visa processing time, make sure to check your application accuracy and online status and go through your documentation properly.

Feeling dejected about the complexity of visa processing? Don’t worry. We at Terratern have got you covered. From applying to approval, just sit back and pack your bags as we do the hassle for you.

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

Why Trust TerraTern

At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality and relevance. Our content, curated by experienced industry professionals. A team of experienced editors reviews this content to ensure it meets the highest standards in reporting and publishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to process an Australian visitor visa in 2025?

Processing times vary depending on the visa stream and individual circumstances. On average, most visitor visa applications are processed within 20 to 30 days, but more complex cases requiring additional documents or background checks may take longer.

Is there a way to expedite an Australian visitor visa application?

While there is no official expedited service for standard visitor visas, submitting a complete and error-free application with all required documents can help avoid unnecessary delays. Business visitor visas may have priority processing options, especially for urgent travel related to work or conferences.

How does the processing time for Indian applicants compare to the global average?

For Indian applicants, processing times are generally similar to global averages, typically falling within a 15 to 35-day range for standard visitor visas. However, factors like application volume and seasonal demand can impact individual processing times.

Can I travel to Australia while my visitor visa is being processed?

No, you must wait for your visa to be granted before traveling. Attempting to enter Australia without a valid visa can lead to denial of entry and possible complications for future visa applications.

How has COVID-19 affected Australian visitor visa processing times?

During the peak of the pandemic, visitor visa processing times were significantly delayed due to travel restrictions and additional health screenings. However, by 2025, processing has largely returned to normal, though some health and vaccination requirements may still be in place depending on global health conditions.