Pakistani citizens travelling to Australia for tourism or to visit family need a Visitor visa (subclass 600) before departure. This guide covers eligibility, documents, fees, and processing time for 2026, along with the mistakes that most often lead to refusal.
Who Needs This Visa
Anyone from Pakistan travelling to Australia for tourism, to visit family or friends, or for a short business visit needs a subclass 600 Visitor visa, applied for under either the Tourist stream or the Sponsored Family stream.
Eligibility
- Genuine intention to visit temporarily and return to Pakistan
- Sufficient funds to support your stay without working in Australia
- Health and character requirements, including health checks where required
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement — a clear, credible explanation of your visit and ties to Pakistan
Documents You’ll Need
- Valid passport with at least one blank page
- Completed online application via ImmiAccount
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Bank statements and proof of income or employment
- Evidence of ties to Pakistan (property, job, family)
- Travel itinerary and accommodation details
- Invitation letter from your Australian host, if visiting family (Sponsored Family stream)
- Health examination results, if requested by the Department of Home Affairs
Fees & Processing Time
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | Set in Australian Dollars by the Department of Home Affairs — confirm the current amount before applying |
| Standard processing | Typically several weeks, though this varies significantly by season and individual case complexity |
| Validity | Usually up to 12 months, with stays of up to 3 months per visit unless otherwise specified |
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Weak or unclear evidence of genuine intent to return to Pakistan (the GTE requirement)
- Insufficient financial documentation
- Incomplete or inconsistent supporting documents
- Unclear relationship or invitation details for family visits
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Australia on a Visitor visa?
No, the subclass 600 Visitor visa does not permit paid work in Australia.
How long can I stay in Australia on this visa?
This depends on what’s granted on your visa, typically up to 3 months per visit, though longer stays are sometimes granted.
What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement?
It’s an assessment of whether your visit is genuinely temporary, based on your circumstances, ties to Pakistan, and travel history.
Ready to Start Your Australia Visa Case Review?
Let’s honestly assess your profile against the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement before you apply.
Request Case ReviewIslamabad: +92 311 1148801 | Sahiwal: +92 311 1148802 | ask@firsttravelingstepconsultants.com
