When planning a trip to Australia, one of the first things that comes to mind is, “What documents do I need for the visa?” Having been to Australia twice, I can confidently say that getting the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is quite straightforward, provided your documents are complete and well-organised.

To make your application process smooth and stress-free, here’s your Australia visa checklist — a detailed guide to everything you’ll need to prepare before applying. Accuracy and attention to detail go a long way toward ensuring your visa is approved without delay.

Quick Summary

1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of travel. Include scanned copies of all pages showing your personal details, previous visas, and travel stamps.

2. Recent Photograph: Attach a recent, passport-sized photograph (45mm x 35mm) with a white background. Ensure it’s taken within the last 6 months and shows clear visibility of facial features.

3. Visa Application Form: Complete the official Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application form carefully. Double-check all personal and travel details before submission.

4. Proof of Financial Capacity: Submit your latest bank statements (usually covering the last 6 months) showing sufficient funds to support your trip. If you’re employed, include your salary slips and income tax returns. Self-employed applicants can provide business registration documents and company bank statements.

5. Cover Letter: Include a signed cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, travel dates, and planned itinerary. If applicable, mention any previous trips to Australia to strengthen your profile.

6. Employment or Business Proof:

   • Employed applicants: Provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer, mentioning your designation, leave approval, and travel dates.

   • Self-employed applicants: Attach business registration certificates, GST documents, or proof of ongoing business operations.

7. Flight Bookings: Include proof of confirmed or tentative round-trip flight bookings that match your travel itinerary.

8. Accommodation Details: Submit your hotel reservations or an invitation letter if staying with family or friends in Australia. The invitation letter should include the host’s full name, address, contact details, and a copy of their passport or residence permit.

9. Proof of Ties to Home Country: Attach documents that show your intention to return, such as property ownership, employment confirmation, or family details. This is an important part of your visa application.

10. Travel History: If you’ve travelled internationally before, include copies of previous visas and entry-exit stamps. Having a strong travel history, especially to countries like Singapore, the UK, or Schengen nations, can help your application.

11. Health and Character Documents (if required): In some cases, you might be asked to undergo a medical check-up or submit a police clearance certificate. You’ll be notified if these are necessary after lodging your application.

Apply for your Australia Tourist Visa through Atlys, and our experts will guide you with all the paperwork.

Whether you’re visiting family, exploring Australia’s breathtaking landscapes, or planning a holiday Down Under, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your visa journey is as seamless as your travels.

Australia Visa Checklist 2025 - 2026: List of Documents

1. Valid Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of travel to Australia. The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping. When submitting your application, include clear, scanned copies of the information page showing your personal details and photograph. You should also attach scanned copies of any previous visas and pages with immigration stamps that reflect your international travel history. If you hold an old passport with previous trips, include that as well, as it helps demonstrate your credibility as a traveller.

2. Recent Photograph

Provide one recent, passport-sized photograph measuring 45mm x 35mm. The photo must be in colour, taken within the last six months, and set against a plain white background. Ensure your face is clearly visible, with no shadows, reflections, or head coverings (unless worn for religious or cultural reasons). Glasses are allowed only if they do not cause glare or obscure your eyes. The photograph should depict a neutral expression with your mouth closed, and your face should occupy approximately 80% of the frame.

You can also use the Atlys Photo Maker to get that perfect shot for your Australia visa application.

3. Visa Application Form

Complete the official Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) application form (Form 1419) with accurate and up-to-date information. The form will ask for details such as your personal information, travel history, purpose of visit, intended duration of stay, and financial capacity. Make sure all sections are filled in correctly and that the details match your supporting documents, including your passport, bank statements, and travel itinerary. Double-check for any spelling errors or inconsistencies before submission, as discrepancies can delay processing or lead to a request for additional information.

You can download the Form 1419 here.

4. Proof of Financial Capacity

Provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your entire stay in Australia — including flights, accommodation, transportation, meals, and other personal expenses. This typically includes your latest bank statements covering the last six months, showing a consistent balance and regular transactions. If you are employed, add your recent salary slips and income tax returns to strengthen your financial profile.

Self-employed applicants should include business registration certificates, GST filings, company bank statements, and income proof. If someone else (such as a parent or spouse) is sponsoring your trip, attach their financial documents, along with a signed sponsorship or support letter that explains the nature of the relationship and their willingness to fund your travel.

5. Cover Letter

Write a detailed and signed cover letter addressed to the Australian High Commission outlining the purpose of your visit. Clearly mention your travel dates, planned duration of stay, and intended itinerary, including the cities or regions you plan to visit. If your trip is for tourism, specify the attractions or activities you wish to experience; if it’s to visit friends or family, provide their details and your relationship to them.

The letter should also briefly mention your current employment or business status and confirm your intent to return to your home country after the trip. If you’ve travelled to Australia before, highlight your previous visits, the duration of each stay, and your adherence to visa conditions — this can significantly strengthen your application by showcasing a positive travel record.

Here’s a sample Australia visa cover letter for your reference.

6. Employment or Business Proof

Demonstrating stable employment or an ongoing business is an important part of your visa application, as it shows that you have strong ties to your home country and reason to return after your visit.

• For employed applicants: Request a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer on official company letterhead. The letter should state your full name, designation, employment duration, approved leave dates, and confirmation that your position will remain secure upon your return. You may also include your last three months’ salary slips and your company’s contact information for verification.

• For self-employed applicants: Provide a copy of your business registration certificate, GST filings, and proof of ongoing operations such as client invoices, contracts, or company bank statements. If you run a small business or freelance, include any relevant professional licenses or certifications to validate your work. These documents demonstrate financial stability and professional credibility.

7. Flight Bookings

Attach proof of your confirmed or tentative flight bookings that correspond with your travel itinerary. The itinerary should clearly show your departure and return dates, flight numbers, and routes.

While confirmed tickets are not mandatory at the time of visa submission, providing a well-planned flight schedule helps establish the seriousness of your application. Avoid making non-refundable bookings before visa approval unless explicitly required, as visa processing times can vary.

8. Accommodation Details

Provide proof of where you will be staying throughout your trip. This can be in the form of confirmed hotel reservations, Airbnb bookings, or an invitation letter if you’re staying with friends or family. Hotel confirmations should include the property’s name, address, contact information, and reservation dates that align with your flight itinerary. We suggest you book your stays through booking.com, which offers fully refundable rates.

If you’re being hosted by someone in Australia, submit an invitation letter from them stating your full name, relationship, duration of stay, and purpose of visit. The host should also include a copy of their Australian passport, permanent residence card, or valid visa, along with proof of residence such as a utility bill or rental agreement. A well-drafted invitation letter adds authenticity to your application and strengthens your case for approval.

9. Proof of Ties to Home Country

Establishing strong ties to your home country is one of the most crucial parts of your Australian visa application. It reassures the authorities that you have compelling reasons to return after your visit and do not intend to overstay. To demonstrate this, include documents that reflect your personal, professional, and financial stability.

Start with employment-related proof such as your job offer letter, current employment contract, or a letter from your employer confirming your ongoing role and return date after the approved leave. If you’re self-employed, include proof of your business ownership, client contracts, and ongoing projects to show your professional commitments.

You can also attach financial documents, such as fixed deposit certificates, mutual fund statements, or investment proofs, that demonstrate long-term financial engagement in your home country.

If you own property or real estate, include copies of property ownership documents (such as sale deeds or registration papers). For married applicants or those with dependents, add family documents, such as marriage certificates or children's birth certificates — these reinforce personal and emotional ties that strengthen your intent to return.

The goal is to present a well-rounded picture of your life at home, making it clear that your visit to Australia is temporary and for leisure, family, or short-term travel.

10. Travel History

Your previous international travel history plays a key role in building your credibility as a responsible traveller. It shows that you have adhered to visa rules and returned home after prior trips.

Include scanned copies of previous visas and entry-exit stamps from your passport, especially from countries like Singapore, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, or those within the Schengen zone. These are considered high-trust destinations and demonstrate your compliance with immigration regulations.

If you have multiple passports (old and new), ensure that you include pages from both showing previous travel. A consistent travel record, even to nearby countries, reflects positively on your profile and can increase your chances of quick approval.

11. Health and Character Documents (if required)

In some cases, the Australian Department of Home Affairs may request additional documentation to assess your health and character. These requirements vary depending on your travel duration, purpose, and personal circumstances.

For health assessments, you might be asked to undergo a medical examination or provide a chest X-ray certificate, particularly if you plan to stay in Australia for more than three months or have lived in countries with a high risk of tuberculosis. These medical checks must be completed through an approved panel physician listed by the Australian government.

As part of the character assessment, you could be asked to submit a police clearance certificate (PCC) issued by your local police authority or passport office. This document verifies that you have no criminal record and are of good conduct.

Note: You will be notified through your ImmiAccount if these additional checks are required. It’s best to keep your records ready and respond promptly to avoid any delays in visa processing.

You can also check out the Australia visa rejection reasons, and how to avoid them! We would always advise keeping your documents in place, as it helps strengthen your application and increases the chances of your visa being approved.

Applying for an Australia Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) might seem detailed at first glance, but once your documents are in order, the process is truly seamless. Having gone through it myself, I can confidently say that Australia’s visa system is transparent and efficient, rewarding applicants who take the time to prepare carefully.

Double-check every form, keep your paperwork well-organised, and ensure that all details are consistent across documents. A clear travel purpose, sufficient financial proof, and evidence of ties to your home country go a long way in strengthening your application.

Whether you’re planning to explore Australia’s breathtaking coastlines, reunite with loved ones, or simply experience life Down Under, a well-prepared visa file ensures your journey begins stress-free. After all, the easier the process, the sooner you’ll be standing beneath the Sydney skyline or watching the sunset over the Great Ocean Road, where your adventure truly begins.