Did you know that you must have a valid Australian visa to travel to and enter Australia?
Planning a trip to Australia is exciting, but completing your australia visa application online can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, with the right approach, the process can be straightforward and stress-free. Importantly, you should not book flights or make travel commitments until you have a visa to travel to Australia, which is why understanding how to apply for an Australian visa correctly is crucial.
The good news is that Australia offers a convenient online system called ImmiAccount that gives you access to many online services. Through this platform, you can apply for various visa types, including the eVisitor visa for British citizens, which comes with no visa application charge or service fee. Furthermore, for students planning to study in Australia, you’ll need to provide proof of at least $29,710 to cover costs associated with your course, such as travel fees and rent.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of completing your australia visa application form online, from gathering the necessary documents to tracking your application status. By following our instructions, you’ll be able to navigate the process confidently and avoid common pitfalls that might delay your application.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents and Information
Preparing your documents is the first crucial step when applying for an Australian visa online. A well-prepared application increases your chances of approval and reduces processing delays.
Check your passport validity
Initially, ensure your passport has at least six months validity beyond your intended stay in Australia. Australian authorities are strict about this requirement, and applications with soon-to-expire passports may be rejected. Additionally, remember that your visa will be electronically linked to your passport number. Consequently, if you obtain a new passport after visa approval, your current visa will cease and you’ll need to apply for a new one.
Gather required documents for your visa type
Document preparation varies depending on your visa category, although certain essentials apply across most applications:
- Identity documents: Current passport pages showing your photo and personal details
- Proof of financial capacity: Bank statements covering a 3-month period, pay slips, tax records, or credit card statements
- Evidence of your reasons to return home: Employment letter, proof of study, family ties, or property ownership
- Travel itinerary: Detailed plans for your Australian visit
- Accommodation details: Hotel reservations or invitation letter if staying with friends/family
Moreover, if someone in Australia is sponsoring your visit, include their invitation letter stating your relationship, visit purpose, and length of stay. For applicants under 18, birth certificates showing both parents’ names are generally required.
Understand the visa subclass you are applying for
Australia has over 120 visa types across different subclasses, each designed for specific purposes. Before applying, identify the correct subclass for your circumstances:
- Tourist visas: For holiday or family visits
- Student visas: For those enrolled in Australian educational institutions
- Work visas: Requiring Australian employer sponsorship
- Family visas: For partners, parents or children of Australian citizens/residents
Understanding your visa subclass is essential because document requirements and eligibility criteria vary significantly among them. Accordingly, visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to determine which visa subclass matches your travel purpose.
Step 2: Create and Set Up Your ImmiAccount
After gathering your documents, the next essential step is creating an ImmiAccount—your gateway to Australia’s online visa services. This digital portal allows you to submit applications, attach documents, make payments, and receive messages from the Department of Home Affairs.
How to register for ImmiAccount
Creating your ImmiAccount is straightforward. First, visit the Department of Home Affairs website and click the “ImmiAccount” option at the top of the homepage. On the ImmiAccount portal, select “Create ImmiAccount” in the bottom-left corner. Throughout this process:
- Enter your email address and click “send verification code”
- Check your email for the verification code and enter it
- Select “Individual” account type (unless representing an organisation)
- Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport
- Create a secure password and set up security questions
- Read and accept the ImmiAccount Terms and Conditions
- Complete the “I am not a robot” verification
- Click “Submit” to complete your registration
Setting up multi-factor authentication
Since June 2025, multi-factor authentication (MFA) has been mandatory for all ImmiAccount users. This security feature prevents unauthorised access to your personal information. You have two main options:
Option 1: Authenticator app (recommended for better security) Download an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator to your mobile device. During MFA setup, scan the QR code displayed on your ImmiAccount screen using the app or manually enter the provided secret key.
Option 2: Email authentication If you prefer, you can receive authentication codes via email instead, though this method is less secure.
Linking your application to your account
Once your ImmiAccount is active, you can import existing applications, share applications with others, or start new ones. To import an application:
- Log in to your ImmiAccount and select “Import Application”
- Enter the application ID or Transaction Reference Number (TRN)
- Provide the main applicant’s date of birth and passport details
This feature is particularly useful if you’re working with a migration agent, as it allows you to monitor your application status independently.
Step 3: Complete the Australia Visa Application Form Online
With your ImmiAccount ready, it’s time to complete your australia visa application form online. This step requires careful attention as incomplete or inaccurate information may lead to delays or rejection.
Filling out the visa application form
The online form requires precise personal details matching your passport exactly. Remember that automatic corrections on smartphones or tablets might change your name or other details, so double-check everything. For date formats, use dd/mm/yy as required. While completing forms, I’ve found that saving your progress regularly prevents losing information in case of connection issues.
Uploading supporting documents
All documents must be attached directly through ImmiAccount rather than emailed. The maximum file size is 5MB, and you cannot attach documents to finalised applications. If you reach the document limit, use the “attach additional documents” form. For non-English documents, certified translations are mandatory, with translator details included.
Meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) or GS requirement
Notably, as of March 23, 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the GTE requirement for student visas. Unlike the previous 300-word statement, the GS requirement involves answering specific questions about:
- Your current circumstances and family ties
- Reasons for choosing your course and Australia
- Expected benefits from your studies
- Previous study history in Australia (if applicable)
Each answer is limited to 150 words.
Providing proof of financial capacity
From May 10, 2024, financial requirements for student visas increased to AUD29,710 for primary applicants. For accompanying family members, additional funds are required:
- Spouse/partner: AUD10,394
- Each dependent child: AUD4,449
- Annual school costs: AUD13,502
Acceptable evidence includes bank statements, loans from approved institutions, scholarships or government sponsorships.
Health and character declarations
Complete honest health declarations through your ImmiAccount. Meanwhile, character requirements under section 501 of the Migration Act are stringent. Therefore, you must declare all criminal convictions or charges in any country. Depending on your circumstances, police certificates or additional forms may be requested.
Step 4: Submit, Pay and Track Your Application
Once your application form is complete, it’s time to finalise the process by submitting and paying for your australia visa application online.
Paying the visa application fee online
Your application isn’t valid until payment is received. ImmiAccount offers several secure payment options with varying surcharges:
- Credit/Debit Cards (MasterCard, VISA): 1.40% surcharge
- PayPal: 1.01% surcharge
- UnionPay: 1.90% surcharge
- BPAY (for Australian accounts only): No surcharge
Essentially, you must pay the entire application fee in one transaction – multiple cards cannot be used.
How to track your application status
Subsequently, you can monitor your application through ImmiAccount. The system assigns specific statuses:
- “Submitted” means your application has been sent
- “Received” indicates it’s in queue for assessment
- “Initial assessment” shows active review
- “Finalised” means a decision has been made
Indeed, applications are assessed case-by-case, with processing times varying based on individual circumstances.
Using VEVO to check visa conditions
After approval, use Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) to verify details. This secure, free service displays:
- Visa class and subclass
- Grant and expiry dates
- Permitted entries
- Stay period
- All applicable conditions
What to do after submission
Forthwith, avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements until your visa is granted. The Department won’t be responsible for financial losses if your application is delayed or unsuccessful. All things considered, keep checking ImmiAccount for messages or requests for additional information.
Conclusion
Applying for an Australian visa might seem daunting at first glance. Nevertheless, following the structured approach outlined in this guide will significantly simplify your application process. Throughout each step, from gathering essential documentation to tracking your application status, careful attention to detail remains paramount.
During the document preparation phase, ensuring your passport has sufficient validity and collecting appropriate financial evidence establishes a solid foundation for your application. Subsequently, setting up your ImmiAccount with proper security measures protects your personal information while providing a user-friendly platform for submission.
Accuracy stands as the cornerstone of successful applications. Therefore, double-checking all information against your passport details before submission can prevent unnecessary delays. Additionally, understanding the specific requirements for your visa subclass helps tailor your application appropriately.
After submission, patience becomes essential. Wait for official approval before making travel arrangements, as visa processing times vary based on individual circumstances. Meanwhile, regularly check your ImmiAccount for any requests for additional information or updates on your application status.
Above all, remember that millions of visitors successfully navigate this process each year. By following this comprehensive guide, you too can complete your Australia visa application confidently and efficiently. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife that make Australia such an exceptional destination.
FAQs
How do I create an ImmiAccount for my Australian visa application?
To create an ImmiAccount, visit the Department of Home Affairs website, click on “ImmiAccount”, then select “Create ImmiAccount”. Enter your email, verify it, fill in your personal details, set up security measures, and accept the terms and conditions. Once registered, you can start your visa application process.
What documents do I need to prepare for my Australian visa application?
Essential documents typically include a valid passport, proof of financial capacity (such as bank statements), evidence of your reasons to return home, travel itinerary, and accommodation details. Specific requirements may vary depending on your visa type, so check the official guidelines for your particular visa subclass.
How can I ensure my online visa application is completed correctly?
Fill out the application form carefully, ensuring all details match your passport exactly. Upload all required supporting documents in the correct format. Answer the Genuine Student (GS) requirement questions honestly and concisely. Provide accurate health and character declarations. Double-check all information before submitting to avoid delays or rejections.
What payment options are available for the visa application fee?
You can pay your visa application fee through ImmiAccount using credit/debit cards (MasterCard, VISA), PayPal, UnionPay, or BPAY (for Australian accounts only). Each payment method, except BPAY, incurs a small surcharge. The entire fee must be paid in a single transaction for your application to be valid.
How can I track the status of my visa application after submission?
After submitting your application, you can monitor its status through your ImmiAccount. The system will display statuses such as “Submitted”, “Received”, “Initial assessment”, or “Finalised”. Keep checking your ImmiAccount regularly for any messages or requests for additional information from the Department of Home Affairs.
