Subclass 651 – eVisitor Visa
Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia Without Sponsorship
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under Open Pathways is a permanent visa option designed for skilled professionals who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory government. It operates on a points-based system and grants successful applicants permanent residency in Australia, with numerous long-term benefits for themselves and eligible family members.
What You Can Do with an eVisitor Visa
As a holder of the eVisitor visa (Subclass 651), you are allowed to:
Visit for Tourism or Family
You can explore Australia’s beautiful landscapes, iconic landmarks, and cultural attractions, or visit family and friends living in the country. This visa is ideal for leisure travel, sightseeing, or reconnecting with loved ones.
Attend Business Activities
The eVisitor visa allows you to engage in limited business visitor activities. This includes attending meetings, negotiations, conferences, or trade shows. It’s a convenient option for professionals needing short-term access to Australia without applying for a work visa. However, paid work is strictly prohibited.
Short-Term Study or Training
You may enrol in a short course or training program for up to three months. This is suitable for language courses, workshops, or informal education that fits within your travel plans. Be sure to check that your chosen course complies with visa conditions.
Multiple Entries for 12 Months
Once granted, the visa is valid for 12 months and allows multiple entries into Australia. Each stay can last up to three months, making it ideal for those who plan to visit more than once within a year—whether for business, family, or travel purposes.
Eligible Countries for the eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)
Passport holders from the following countries are eligible to apply for an eVisitor visa:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
✅ Note: This is a partial list. The full list of eligible countries can be found on the official Department of Home Affairs website.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for an eVisitor visa if:
You hold a passport from an eligible country (mainly EU and a few additional European nations)
You are outside Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted
You meet the health and character requirements
You have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government
You are a genuine visitor and will not work or study long-term
Key Features
Free visa with multiple entries within 12 months
Stay up to 3 months per visit
Travel for tourism, visiting family/friends, or business visitor purposes
Apply online only from outside Australia
Quick processing time, usually within a few days
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible for an eVisitor visa if:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Passport | You must hold a passport from an eligible country, primarily from the European Union and select other European nations. |
| Location at Time of Application | You must be outside Australia when you apply for the visa and also when the visa is granted. |
| Health & Character | You must meet Australian health and character requirements, which may include health examinations or police clearances. |
| No Outstanding Debts | You must not owe any money to the Australian Government, or you must have arranged to repay any debts. |
| Genuine Visitor | You must be a genuine visitor, intending to stay temporarily. You cannot work, and any study or training must be short-term. |
Who Can Apply for an eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)?
You may be eligible to apply for an eVisitor visa if you meet the following criteria:
Passport from an Eligible Country
You must hold a passport from an eligible country—primarily from the European Union and select other European nations.
Apply from Outside Australia
You must be outside Australia both when applying for the visa and when it is granted.
Meet Health and Character Requirements
You must satisfy Australia’s health and character checks.
No Outstanding Debts
You must have no unpaid debts to the Australian Government.
Genuine Visitor Intentions
You must genuinely intend to visit temporarily, with no intention to work or study long-term.
Need help with the process? Reach out to our Registered Migration Agents at info@openpathways.com or fill in the online enquiry form for a free eligibility check.
Processing Time
| Visa Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| eVisitor – Subclass 651 | FREE |
Visa Cost
| Visa Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| eVisitor – Subclass 651 | FREE |
How We Help
Although the eVisitor visa is free and relatively straightforward, some applicants may still face challenges such as:
Previous visa refusals or character issues
Mistakes in the application process
Concerns over health or travel history
We can assist with:
Ensuring all eligibility criteria are met
Reviewing your passport and travel history
Managing applications for those with complex cases
Need Help with an eVisitor Application?
Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, our Registered Migration Agents are ready to help make the process smooth and stress-free.
