📑 Table of Contents ▾
Bottom line: The Australia ETA (subclass 601) is the simplest option for tourists — apply via the app in 10 minutes, approved automatically, no paper documents required. The subclass 600 visitor visa involves more paperwork but allows longer stays, and is better suited to stays over 3 months or those with business purposes.
Australia’s visa system is relatively accessible for Chinese travelers. Two main visa types cover the vast majority of tourism and business situations. Here’s the full 2026 guide.
ETA (Subclass 601): The Best Option for Tourism
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Who it’s for: Passport holders from China (and 38 other eligible countries) planning to stay up to 3 months.
Apply through the Australian ETA App (iOS) or the Australian ETA website — fully digital, no consulate visit required.
Application steps:
- Download the “Australian ETA” app (look for the green icon)
- Select “New Application”
- Scan your passport’s MRZ zone (the two lines of text on the bottom)
- Answer character and health questions (about 10 questions)
- Submit — pay the A$20 application fee by credit card
Processing time: Automated system; most applications are approved within 10 minutes to 24 hours. Once approved, it’s linked to your passport — just scan it at the border.
Validity: Valid for 12 months from approval date; multiple entries allowed, each stay up to 3 months.
Subclass 600 Visitor Visa: For Longer Stays
Who it’s for: Those planning to stay more than 3 months, conducting business visits, or with a strong Australia travel record looking for multi-year visas.
The 600 visa comes in Tourist and Business Visitor streams. More documents are required, but you may be granted up to a 5-year multiple-entry visa (with an Australian sponsor).
Required documents:
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Certified translation of national ID
- Certified translation of household register (hukou)
- Bank statements (last 6 months, showing stable income)
- Employment letter/business registration (for self-employed)
- Return flight booking
- Travel itinerary
Application fee: A$190 (Tourist stream); submit online via ImmiAccount.
Processing time: Usually 2–4 weeks; during peak seasons (Chinese New Year, Golden Week) may extend to 6–8 weeks.
Common Refusal Reasons & How to Avoid Them
| Refusal Reason | How to Prevent It |
|---|---|
| Insufficient financial evidence | Provide additional asset proof (property, investments, stocks) |
| No clear itinerary | Submit a detailed day-by-day plan with bookings |
| Weak home-country ties | Provide employment letter, family documentation |
| Blank passport | Apply for ETA first, or build a travel record with visa-free countries |
Application Timeline
- ETA: Apply 1–2 weeks before departure; applying too far in advance may push the 12-month expiry close to your travel dates
- Subclass 600: Start preparing documents 2 months before departure to allow time for requests for additional information
Before departure, save a digital copy of your visa grant notice (PDF) on your phone — some airlines ask to see it during check-in.
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