If visiting Australia has been on your New Year's resolution list for years (or maybe you're just itching to go back), now's the perfect time to make it happen! It's time to pack your bags and gather your documents because adventure awaits.
Travelling to Australia is now even easier for Filipinos thanks to the new Australian Frequent Traveller Stream (FTS) Visitor Visa (subclass 600). This visa is perfect for tourism, visiting family or friends, or even business trips. The visa costs AUD$1,435 (roughly P53,620) and is valid for up to 10 years.
With the FTS visa, you can stay in Australia for up to three months per visit. However, there's a limit: you can only stay for a total of 12 months within any 24-month period. The exact details of your allowed stay will be included in your visa grant letter, so be sure to read it carefully!
Previously, Filipinos could only apply for visas like the Visitor Visa (subclass 600), Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462), Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601), eVisitor (subclass 651), and Transit Visa (subclass 771). Now, with the new FTS visa option, travelling to Australia has become more convenient for Filipinos.
How To Apply For The Australian Frequent Traveller Stream (FTS) Visitor Visa For Filipino Tourists
So, would you like to give Australia a go? A smooth journey starts with preparing your visa application requirements. Applications are handled through the Australian Government's ImmiAccount portal, so it’s essential to gather everything you need before starting the process.
Key Requirements for Your Australian Visa Application:
1. Meet the health and character standards.
Applicants must pass Australia's health and character requirements. This ensures that visitors are fit to travel and meet the country’s standards for entry.
2. Clear any debts.
If you or any family members (even those not applying for a visa) owe money to the Australian government, it's important to pay it back or arrange a repayment plan. This will help avoid delays in processing your application.
3. Prepare essential documents.
Make sure you have:
- A valid passport
- Proof of sufficient funds (such as bank statements)
- A detailed travel itinerary
- Additional documents like employment certificates or letters of invitation, if required
4. Accomplish forms for applicants under 18.
If you're under 18 years old, you’ll need to submit Form 1229 and Form 1257. These forms must be signed by your parents or legal guardians.
5. Check extra requirements.
If you're applying as a genuine visitor or business visitor, you might need to provide additional paperwork. Details on these requirements can be found on the ImmiAccount portal.
How to submmit your application and biometrics for the Australian visa:
Once you've gathered all the necessary documents, submit your application through ImmiAccount. After submitting, you'll need to provide your biometrics at an Australian Biometric Collection Centre (ABCC). This step includes fingerprinting and a photo.
- Service Fees: The standard fee for biometrics is P557.
- Walk-in Applicants: If you choose to walk in without an appointment, there's an extra P1,000 fee.
In Manila, the ABCC is located on the 6th floor of the Makati Circuit Corporate Center Tower Two in Makati City. It operates from Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
