India is one of the top source countries for Australian visitor visas, with hundreds of thousands of applications lodged each year. Whether you're visiting family, going on holiday, or attending a business event, here's everything you need to know about applying from India.
Which Visa Do You Need?
Indian passport holders are not eligible for the ETA (Subclass 601) or eVisitor (Subclass 651). You must apply for the Visitor visa (Subclass 600) — Tourist stream.
Required Documents
Essential Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay. If you have old passports with travel history, include copies. |
| Recent passport-sized photos | White background, 45mm × 35mm |
| Application form | Completed online through ImmiAccount |
| Visa application charge | AUD $190 (approximately INR 10,500) |
Financial Documents
| Document | Why It's Important |
|---|---|
| Bank statements (6 months) | Shows savings and transaction pattern. Consistent deposits are better than a sudden large deposit. |
| Income Tax Returns (2–3 years) | Demonstrates stable income and ties to India |
| Salary slips (3–6 months) | Confirms current employment and income |
| Fixed Deposit certificates | Shows long-term savings |
| Property documents | Demonstrates ties to India |
| Credit card statements | Additional financial evidence |
⚠️ Tip: Avoid making a large one-time deposit shortly before applying. The Department recognises "fund parking" and it raises red flags. A consistent savings history is far more convincing.
Employment / Business Evidence
| Situation | Documents Needed |
|---|---|
| Employed | Employment letter confirming position, salary, approved leave dates |
| Self-employed | Business registration (GST certificate, Udyam), CA-certified financial statements |
| Retired | Pension statements, retirement proof |
| Student | Enrolment letter from institution |
Travel and Stay Evidence
- Flight itinerary (bookable/tentative — don't purchase until visa is granted)
- Accommodation bookings (hotel reservations or invitation from host)
- Travel itinerary — day-by-day plan showing what you'll do in Australia
- Travel insurance — comprehensive policy covering the trip duration
- Previous travel history — copies of stamps/visas from other countries (strengthens GTE)
If You're Visiting Family or Friends
- Invitation letter from your host in Australia — including their full name, address, relationship to you, and confirmation they'll support your stay
- Host's proof of status — Australian citizenship certificate, PR evidence, or visa grant notice
- Host's financial documents — if they're sponsoring you, evidence of their capacity to support
- Statutory declaration from host (Form 1149 if Sponsored Family stream)
How to Apply
Option 1: Online Through ImmiAccount (Recommended)
- Create an account at online.immi.gov.au
- Select Visitor visa (600) — Tourist stream
- Complete the application form
- Upload all documents as colour scans (PDF or JPEG)
- Pay the application charge online
- Receive acknowledgement email with your TRN (Transaction Reference Number)
Option 2: Through VFS Global
VFS Global operates Australian Visa Application Centres (AVACs) in India:
Locations: New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Pune, Kochi, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Goa
VFS charges an additional service fee on top of the visa application charge. Book an appointment online at vfsglobal.com/australia/india.
Biometrics
Indian applicants are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph). This is done at the VFS Global centre if applying through VFS, or at a designated collection point if applying online.
Common Refusal Reasons for Indian Applicants
| Reason | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Not a genuine temporary entrant | Show strong ties: employment, property, family in India |
| Insufficient funds | Provide 6 months of bank statements showing consistent balance |
| Weak employment evidence | Include employer letter with return date and approved leave |
| No travel history | If this is your first international trip, provide extra financial and ties evidence |
| Vague purpose of visit | Include a detailed itinerary with dates, locations, and activities |
| Incomplete application | Upload ALL documents upfront — don't wait to be asked |
Processing Times and Tips
- Apply 6–8 weeks before travel — especially for peak season (December–January)
- Don't book non-refundable flights until your visa is granted
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Check your application status in ImmiAccount regularly
- Keep a copy of everything you submitted
After Your Visa Is Granted
- Check your visa conditions in VEVO
- Note the entry date (travel must commence by this date) and stay period
- If your visa includes Condition 8558, use our calculator to track your stay
Official Resources
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Requirements and fees change regularly. Always verify with the Department of Home Affairs.