Before You Apply

Check whether you need a visa at all — Australian passport holders get visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries. Check the destination country's requirements via the Australian Government's Smartraveller website (smartraveller.gov.au) before applying for anything.

What You Typically Need

  • Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Most countries require this.
  • Completed application form: Most countries have moved to online applications.
  • Passport photos: Usually 2 identical recent photos meeting specific size requirements (typically 35x45mm, white background, no glasses).
  • Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from a host.
  • Return or onward flight ticket: Proof you plan to leave.
  • Travel insurance: Required by some countries (particularly Schengen area in Europe).
  • Bank statements: Proving sufficient funds for the trip (typically 2–3 months of statements).
  • Application fee: Varies widely by country and visa type.

How to Apply

  1. 1

    Find the official visa application website

    Always apply through the official government website. Common destinations: USA — esta.cbp.dhs.gov (ESTA for Australians, visa-free). UK — gov.uk/visit-uk. Europe (Schengen) — through the embassy of the country you spend the most time in. India — indianvisaonline.gov.in. China — through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre.

  2. 2

    Create an account and complete the application

    Set up an account on the visa portal. Fill in the application form accurately — any inaccuracies can cause delays or rejection. Have your passport in front of you to copy details exactly.

  3. 3

    Upload documents

    Upload scanned copies of your passport, photos and supporting documents as required. Ensure scans are clear and files are the correct format and size specified.

  4. 4

    Pay the fee and submit

    Pay by credit or debit card. Keep the payment receipt. Note your application reference number for tracking.

  5. 5

    Allow adequate processing time

    Tourist visas typically take 3–15 business days. Apply well in advance — at least 4–6 weeks before travel, more for countries with longer processing. Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved.

Avoid visa agents and third-party websitesOnly apply through the official government immigration website of the destination country. Numerous third-party sites charge extra fees and sometimes steal personal information. The official URL is always listed on Smartraveller and the destination country embassy website.

Frequently Asked Questions

At minimum 4–6 weeks before travel for most tourist visas. Some countries (particularly China, Russia, India) can take longer. High-demand periods (school holidays, major events) see longer processing times. Never apply fewer than 2 weeks before travel unless the visa is guaranteed same-day or instant (like US ESTA which is usually approved in seconds).
Australian passport holders can currently visit the Schengen Area (26 European countries) visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The European ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) — an online pre-travel authorisation similar to the US ESTA — is expected to be required for Australian visitors. Check smartraveller.gov.au for the current status before travelling.