Can I apply for another Australian visa?

Extending Your Australian Stay: Can You Apply for Another Visa?

Australia’s allure often leads to extended travel plans. But if you’re already in the country, the process of applying for another visa can feel confusing. This article clarifies the options available, specifically focusing on those arriving on an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

Many travellers arrive in Australia on the convenient ETA, a visa granted electronically for short-term tourism or business. However, the ETA has limitations. Its validity period is finite, and it doesn’t allow for work or study. So, what if you wish to extend your stay beyond the ETA’s expiry date?

The good news is that, if you entered Australia on an ETA, you can often apply for a subsequent visa while still in Australia. A popular choice in this situation is the Visitor visa (subclass 600). This visa offers various streams catering to tourism, business, or even visiting family and friends, each with its specific requirements.

Crucially, this pathway is NOT available to those who entered Australia on an eVisitor (subclass 651) visa. The eVisitor is specifically designed for short-term tourism and does not allow for in-country visa applications to extend a stay.

Therefore, understanding your initial visa type is paramount. Check your visa grant notice to confirm whether you arrived on an ETA or an eVisitor. This single detail dictates your options for extending your stay.

Applying for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) from within Australia:

Before you begin the application process, meticulously review the eligibility criteria for the Visitor visa subclass 600. This involves demonstrating:

• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): You must convincingly prove your intention to leave Australia at the end of your intended stay. This often involves providing evidence of strong ties to your home country, such as employment, property ownership, or family commitments.
• Sufficient funds: You’ll need to show you have enough money to support yourself during your stay without working.
• Health requirements: You must meet Australia’s health requirements.
• Character requirements: You must satisfy Australia’s character requirements, meaning you don’t have a criminal record that would prevent entry.

Failure to meet these criteria will likely result in your application being refused. Thorough preparation is key. Consider seeking professional immigration advice if you are unsure about any aspect of the application process.

In conclusion, extending your Australian stay is possible, but it depends heavily on your initial visa. If you’re on an ETA, a Visitor visa (subclass 600) may be your route to a longer stay. However, meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of the application requirements are vital for success. Remember to always check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information and guidelines.