China to Australia tourist visa
Complete Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) requirements, fees, processing times, and approval tips for Chinese citizens. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- Australia Tourist Visa
- Fee
- A$250
- Processing time
- 20 to 33 days
- Length of stay
- Up to 12 months
Required documents
- Valid Passport — Your current passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Australia
- Online Application via ImmiAccount — Complete the visa application online through the Australian Government’s ImmiAccount portal
- Passport-Sized Photograph — Recent passport-sized photograph meeting Australian specifications
- Bank Statements — Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your entire stay in Australia without working
- Employment Evidence — Documentation proving your employment status, income, and approved leave
- Travel Plans — Details of your planned activities, accommodation, and travel within Australia
- Ties to Home Country — Evidence demonstrating strong reasons to return to China after your visit
How to apply
- Tourist Stream — For independent travelers visiting for tourism, family visits, or cruises
- Approved Destination Status (ADS) Stream — For organized tour groups through approved agents (faster processing)
- Frequent Traveller Stream — For regular visitors (up to 10 years validity, AUD 1,480)
- Personal details and passport information — Personal details and passport information
- Travel plans and intended dates — Travel plans and intended dates
- Employment and financial information — Employment and financial information
Common questions
- Can Chinese citizens get an ETA or eVisitor for Australia?
- No. Chinese passport holders are not eligible for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa. You must apply for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), which requires a full application with supporting documents.
- What is the Approved Destination Status (ADS) stream?
- The ADS stream is specifically for Chinese citizens traveling to Australia as part of an organized tour group through an approved travel agent. It has faster processing times (typically 2 to 5 days) but requires you to remain with the tour group throughout your visit.
- How long can I stay in Australia on a tourist visa?
- The Subclass 600 visa can be granted for stays of 3, 6, or 12 months. The duration is determined by the case officer based on your application. Most first-time applicants receive 3 or 6 month visas.
- What is the Frequent Traveller stream?
- Chinese citizens who travel regularly to Australia can apply for the Frequent Traveller stream, which grants a visa valid for up to 10 years with stays of up to 3 months each visit. The fee is AUD 1,480.
- How much money do I need in my bank account?
- There is no official minimum, but you should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover accommodation, travel, food, and activities for your entire stay. A guideline is AUD 5,000 to 10,000 per month of intended stay, plus return flights.
- Can I work on an Australian tourist visa?
- No. The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) strictly prohibits any work, including remote work for Chinese employers. If caught working, your visa will be cancelled and you may face a ban on future applications.