eVisitor visa (subclass 651) — eligibility, costs & how to apply

What is the eVisitor (subclass 651)?

The eVisitor visa (subclass 651) is a free, electronically-stored visa for eligible European passport holders to visit Australia for tourism or business visitor activities.

Like the ETA, the eVisitor is built for speed and simplicity, but it is limited to eligible European passports and to tourism and business visitor activities. If it is not available to you, a subclass 600 Visitor visa is the usual alternative.

Eligibility for the eVisitor (subclass 651)

To be eligible for the eVisitor (subclass 651), you generally need to meet the following:

• You hold an eligible European passport
• You are visiting for tourism or business visitor activities
• You intend a short, genuine, temporary stay
• You meet health and character requirements
• You do not intend to work in Australia
• You apply online before you travel

How to apply for the eVisitor (subclass 651)

1. Check that your European passport is eligible for the eVisitor
2. Apply online with your passport and travel details
3. Receive your eVisitor, linked electronically to your passport
4. Travel within the validity, for stays of up to 3 months each visit

Processing time and cost of the eVisitor (subclass 651)

eVisitor applications are generally processed quickly for eligible travellers, and there is no visa application charge. The eVisitor usually allows stays of up to 3 months per entry within a 12-month period. If your circumstances are complex, a registered migration agent can advise on the right option.

eVisitor (651) vs ETA (601) vs Visitor visa (600)

The eVisitor is free and covers eligible European passports; the ETA covers other eligible passports for a small charge. Both are for short tourist or business visits. The subclass 600 is the broader visitor visa for everyone else and for longer or sponsored stays.

Common eVisitor (subclass 651) mistakes to avoid

Many of these matters come down to avoidable mistakes. The most common issues include:

• Holding a passport that is not eVisitor-eligible
• Intending activities beyond tourism or business visitor
• Character or health issues requiring a full visitor application
• A travel history that triggers further assessment

Do you need a migration agent for the eVisitor (subclass 651)?

Using a registered migration agent is not compulsory, but the eVisitor (subclass 651) is detail-heavy and a single mistake, missing document or late response can lead to delay or refusal — and a refusal can affect future applications. A registered migration agent confirms your eligibility before you spend money, prepares your evidence, lodges your application correctly and manages any requests from the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. Through Immigration Expert you can be matched with up to three OMARA-registered agents who handle the eVisitor (subclass 651) every day, compare their advice, and choose who to work with — free and with no obligation.