By Mallika Bhagat

Copyright timesnownews

There is no doubt that Australia sits very, very high on our bucket lists, and for more reasons than our shared love (read mania) for cricket. From the laid-back beaches of Sydney and Gold Coast to the rugged beauty of the Outback, from Melbourne’s coffee culture to the Great Barrier Reef, there’s something about the continent that makes it an irresistible holiday choice. Add to that a thriving Indian community and flight connections from major Indian cities, and it’s no wonder Australia continues to be one of the top international travel destinations for Indian tourists. And if you’re planning an end-of-year getaway to the land down under, here’s a simple guide that answers the most common questions—cost, documents, stay duration, and everything else you need to know. Australian Tourist Visa For IndiansThe Australian Tourist Visa (subclass 600) allows Indian travellers to: Visit family and friends.Explore the country as a tourist, including cruises.Study or train for up to 3 months (though not as the main purpose of travel).Important: You cannot work on this visa. If you’re on a cruise, you’ll still need a visa. For round-trip cruises, your time at sea counts as time spent in Australia. How Long Can Indians Stay In Australia On A Tourist Visa?The visa is temporary and the duration depends on your application. Most tourist visas are granted for 3 months.In special cases, you may get up to 12 months.The visa can be single entry or multiple entry.With multiple entry, you can leave and re-enter Australia as long as the visa is valid. Cost Of Australia Tourist Visa For IndiansBase application fee: From AUD 200 (approx. ₹11,000–₹12,000). Additional costs may include: Health checks, police certificates and biometrics Documents Needed For Australia Tourist VisaHere’s a checklist of commonly required documents: Valid passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages).Duly filled online visa application form.Recent passport-sized photo (35×45 mm, white background, no specs).Cover letter stating purpose of travel.Last 3 months’ bank statement (with stamp & signature).Salary slips/Income tax records.Fixed deposit receipts / credit card statements.Flight tickets and hotel bookings.National ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID).Marriage certificate (if spouse not on passport).Employer leave approval letter (if employed).Pension statement (if retired).Sponsorship documents (if a relative/friend in Australia is funding your trip). For minors: Birth certificate. NOC from school/university. Consent form (Form 1229) if travelling without parents. How to Apply for an Australian VisaYou should be outside Australia to apply for a visa. You’ll have to apply for the tourist visa through ImmiAccount and pay visa charges online. Can Indians Apply For Work And Holiday Visa In Australia?Yes, but with conditions. The Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462) allows people aged 18–30 to work while holidaying in Australia. However: Indians, along with China and Vietnam passport holders, must go through a ballot (lottery system) to be selected before applying.If selected, you can work and travel in Australia, and even apply for a second visa if you meet certain criteria. Travel News – Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.