Tag Archives: Australian Visa Application

How to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa in the Philippines (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re a Filipino planning a vacation to Australia, the first thing you need is a valid Australian Visitor Visa (subclass 600). This visa allows you to visit Australia for tourism, to see family or friends, or for short-term non-work purposes. Here’s your updated 2025 guide to applying for an Australian Tourist Visa from the Philippines.

✅ Who Needs an Australian Tourist Visa?

Philippine passport holders must apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) before entering Australia. The visa is typically valid for 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on the case.

📋 Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa (2025)

Step 1: Create an ImmiAccount

The entire visa application is processed online via the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website.

Tip: Use a working and frequently-checked email as all communications will be sent here.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Here’s a list of common requirements for a tourist visa (subclass 600):

Personal Documents:

  • Valid Philippine passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
  • Passport-size photo (45mm x 35mm, white background)
  • Birth certificate (PSA-issued)
  • Valid IDs (government-issued)

Financial Proof:

  • Bank statements (last 3 months)
  • Certificate of employment (with leave approval)
  • Payslips (last 3 months)
  • Income tax return (ITR)

Travel Plans:

  • Travel itinerary (not mandatory, but helpful)
  • Hotel bookings (or invitation letter if staying with a friend/family)
  • Roundtrip flight reservation (optional but recommended)

Supporting Documents (if applicable):

  • Invitation letter from Australian sponsor
  • Copy of sponsor’s passport/visa
  • Evidence of relationship to sponsor

Note: All documents must be scanned and uploaded in PDF or JPG format.

Step 3: Start Your Online Application

Once your documents are ready:

  • Log in to your ImmiAccount
  • Select “New Application” > “Visitor” > “Visitor Visa (600)”
  • Choose the “Tourism” stream
  • Fill in all required personal, travel, and background information

Important: Be honest with your answers. Misrepresentation may lead to visa refusal.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

As of 2025, the Visitor visa (subclass 600) application fee is approximately AUD 190 (subject to currency conversion). Payment can be made via:

  • Credit/debit card
  • PayPal

Once payment is successful, you’ll receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN). Save this for tracking your application.

Step 6: Biometrics Appointment (if required)

After submission, you might receive a Biometrics Request.

If so, you’ll need to book an appointment at a VFS Global center:

📍 VFS Global – Manila
Mezzanine Floor, Ecoplaza Building, Don Chino Roces Ave., Makati City

📍 VFS Global – Cebu
9th Floor, Keppel Center, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City

  • Bring your passport and Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL)
  • Pay the biometric service fee (approx. PHP 900+)

Step 7: Wait for the Visa Decision

Processing times can vary. On average, tourist visa applications from the Philippines take:

  • 15 to 30 working days, depending on individual circumstances.

You will receive an email notification with the decision. If approved, your visa grant notice will include:

  • Visa grant number
  • Entry conditions
  • Validity dates

Note: No visa sticker is placed on your passport. It’s all electronic.

✅ Tips for a Successful Application

  • Show strong ties to the Philippines (job, family, properties, etc.)
  • Provide clear proof of financial capacity
  • Avoid submitting fake documents
  • Apply at least 2 months before your travel date

✈️ Ready to explore Australia?

Start your application today and enjoy the beauty of Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef, and more! 🇦🇺🌏