How to Extend Your Australia Visa in 2026
Australia's vast landscapes, unique wildlife, and vibrant cities make it a destination many visitors want to linger in longer than originally planned. Extending your stay in Australia requires applying for a new Visitor Visa (subclass 600) — Australia does not technically 'extend' visas; instead, you apply for a new one from within the country.
Visa Extension at a Glance
Apply before your current visa expires to receive a Bridging Visa A and lawful status.
| Extension Type | Duration | Fee | Where to Apply | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa subclass 600 (in-country) | 3, 6, or 12 months (subject to grant) | AUD 365 | ImmiAccount (online) | 6–12 weeks |
| ETA (subclass 601) / eVisitor (651) | NOT extendable in-country | N/A — must leave Australia | Apply from outside Australia | Minutes to days |
Can You Extend Your Australia Visa?
Australia does not use a traditional extension system. Instead, tourists who want to stay longer must apply for a new Visitor Visa (subclass 600) before their current visa expires. This can be done online via the Australian Government's ImmiAccount portal. The application fee is AUD 365 (Tourist stream). Processing takes approximately 6–12 weeks, though it can vary. If you apply before your current visa expires, you are generally granted a 'bridging visa A' (BVA), which allows you to remain in Australia lawfully while your application is being processed. The subclass 600 Visitor Visa is usually granted for up to 3, 6, or 12 months. Note: holders of the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) or eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot extend in-country — they must leave and re-apply from outside Australia.
Extension Requirements and Documents
- Valid passport (ideally 6+ months validity beyond the requested stay)
- Current Australian visa (not yet expired)
- ImmiAccount registration (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au)
- Completed online Visitor Visa subclass 600 application
- Evidence of ongoing genuine tourist activities
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Proof of strong home-country ties (employment, family, assets)
- Application fee: AUD 365
Step-by-Step Extension Process
- Create an ImmiAccount
Register or log in at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. This is the Department of Home Affairs' official portal. - Start a new Visitor Visa (subclass 600) application
Select 'Apply for a visa', choose Visitor Visa subclass 600 (Tourist stream), and complete the online form. - Upload supporting documents
Attach your bank statements, proof of accommodation, return flight (if booked), and evidence of home-country ties. - Pay AUD 365 and submit
Pay the application fee online. Submit well before your current visa expires. - Bridging Visa A is automatically granted
Once you submit in-time, a Bridging Visa A (BVA) is automatically granted, allowing you to remain in Australia while your subclass 600 is processed.
Overstay Penalties — Important!
Overstaying in Australia has severe and long-lasting consequences. If your visa expires before you lodge a new application, you become unlawful. Unlawful non-citizens in Australia may be detained and deported. An Unlawful Non-Citizen (UNC) flag is permanently placed on your immigration record, which can result in a 3-year exclusion period from being granted certain Australian visas. For ETA or eVisitor holders, departing with an overstay record may result in cancellation of future ETA eligibility. Always apply for your subclass 600 before your current visa expires to secure a Bridging Visa A.
This guide is maintained by our visa research team. Last updated: March 2026.
Important: Visa extension rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements at the Australian Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount before making travel plans. This page is for informational purposes only.