Overview of the eVisitor (Subclass 651) Visa
The eVisitor (Subclass 651) is a temporary visa designed for European passport holders who wish to visit Australia for tourism or business purposes. It is a digitally linked visa, meaning there is no physical stamp or label required in your passport.
In 2026, this visa remains a primary pathway for short-term stays, allowing for:
- Tourism: Holidays, recreation, or visiting family and friends.
- Business Visitor Activities: Attending conferences, negotiating contracts, or making general business enquiries.
- Study: Short-term study or training for up to 3 months in total.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Subclass 651 visa, you must:
- Hold a valid passport from an eligible European country.
- Be outside Australia at the time of application and at the time of the visa grant.
- Intend to visit Australia only temporarily for tourism or business visitor activities.
- Meet the relevant health and character requirements as defined by the Department of Home Affairs.
2026 Fee Structure
The eVisitor (Subclass 651) remains a unique visa category regarding its cost. Under the current 2026 regulatory framework:
- Base Application Charge: AUD 0
- Total Visa Cost: Free
While the visa itself has no application fee, applicants must ensure their Mobile devices and internet connections are secure when submitting via their ImmiAccount to avoid third-party service scams.
Processing Times (2026 Benchmarks)
Processing times for the eVisitor visa are generally the fastest in the Australian immigration system. Based on the latest 2026 data from the Department of Home Affairs, the current percentile benchmarks are:
| Percentile | Processing Time |
| 50% of applications | Less than 1 day |
| 90% of applications | Less than 1 day |
Note: While most applications are processed almost instantly, some may take longer if additional checks are required or if the application is incomplete.
Visa Conditions and Obligations
As a holder of an eVisitor (Subclass 651) visa, you must adhere to the following 2026 compliance standards:
- 8101 (No Work): You must not work in Australia. You can only engage in "business visitor activities" such as attending meetings or seminars.
- 8201 (Maximum 3 Months Study): You must not study for more than 3 months.
- Stay Period: You can stay in Australia for up to 3 months on each visit within the 12-month validity period.
- Health Insurance: It is strongly recommended that you maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my eVisitor visa while I am in Australia?
No. The eVisitor (Subclass 651) visa cannot be extended. If you wish to stay longer than the 3-month period allowed per entry, you must apply for a different visa, such as the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), before your current stay expires.
Does this visa allow me to work for an Australian employer?
Strictly no. Paid work or providing services to an Australian organisation is a breach of visa condition 8101. If you intend to work, you must apply for a temporary or permanent skilled work visa.
How long is the eVisitor visa valid for?
The visa is generally valid for 12 months from the date of grant. You can enter Australia multiple times during this year, provided each stay does not exceed 3 months.
What should I do if I get a new passport?
Your visa is digitally linked to your passport number. If you get a new passport, you must update your details with the Department of Home Affairs before you travel to ensure your visa remains valid for entry.
