Australia is a popular destination for families to reunite, and many individuals invite their parents to visit on a tourist visa. However, if your parents wish to stay longer, you might be wondering about the extension rules for different visitor visas. In this article, we will explore the three main types of visitor visas and their extension rules, how to apply for an extension, and alternative options.
3 Types of Visitor Visas and Their Extension Rules 2025
Australia offers three primary visitor visa types for tourists:
- Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Can be extended under certain conditions
- eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) – Cannot be extended but has alternatives
- Electronic Travel Authority (ETA 601) – Cannot be extended but has alternatives
We will explore each visa type in detail, their extension rules, and how to apply for an extension where possible.
1. Subclass 600 Visitor Visa – Possible Extensions
The Subclass 600 Visitor Visa is the most flexible tourist visa in Australia and allows for potential extensions.
Key Features of Subclass 600:
✅ Allows visits of 3, 6, or 12 months
✅ Can be extended if no “No Further Stay” condition (Condition 8503) is attached
✅ Can be granted multiple times if eligibility criteria are met
✅ Suitable for parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents who need a longer stay
✅ Requires proof of financial capacity to support the extended stay
How to Apply for an Extension:
- Check visa conditions – Ensure that Condition 8503 (No Further Stay) is not attached.
- Gather necessary documents:
- A valid passport
- Evidence of financial capacity (bank statements, sponsorship proof, etc.)
- A compelling reason for the extension (family reasons, medical needs, etc.)
- Health insurance coverage details
- Proof of onward travel or strong ties to the home country
- Apply online through ImmiAccount
- Pay the visa extension fee (varies depending on the stay duration and applicant’s location)
- Wait for processing – Usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Limitations:
⚠️ If Condition 8503 is applied, the visa cannot be extended within Australia
⚠️ Overstaying may lead to penalties or re-entry bans
People also read: Can I Extend My Parents’ Tourist Visa in Australia?
2. eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) – Extension Limitations
The eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) is a free visa available to passport holders from select European countries.
Key Features of Subclass 651:
✅ Allows multiple entries for stays of up to 3 months per visit within a 12-month period
✅ Free to apply for eligible passport holders
❌ Cannot be extended inside Australia
❌ If more time is needed, a new visa application is required
What to Do If More Time Is Needed?
- Apply for a new visa – If still in Australia, parents can apply for a Subclass 600 Visitor Visa before the current eVisitor visa expires.
- Leave and reapply – Parents must leave Australia and apply for another eVisitor visa from outside the country.
How to Apply for a New Visa?
- Check visa expiry date and ensure application is made before expiration.
- Gather documents:
- Valid passport
- Proof of financial support
- Health insurance details
- Submit an application online via ImmiAccount.
- Await processing – Can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the applicant’s country.
3. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA 601) – Extension Limitations
The ETA (Subclass 601) is similar to the eVisitor visa but available for citizens of select countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
Key Features of Subclass 601:
✅ Allows multiple entries with stays of up to 3 months per visit
✅ Valid for 12 months from the date of grant
✅ Can be easily applied for online
❌ Cannot be extended inside Australia
❌ If more time is needed, a new visa application is required
What to Do If More Time Is Needed?
- Apply for a new visa – Parents can apply for a Subclass 600 Visitor Visa while in Australia.
- Leave and reapply – A new ETA must be applied for from outside Australia.
How to Apply for a New ETA?
- Check visa expiry date and apply before expiration.
- Ensure eligibility – ETA is only available to certain passport holders.
- Submit application online via the Australian ETA app.
- Receive approval electronically – Most applications are processed within minutes.
Summary of Extension Rules for Different Visas in 2025
| Visa Type | Can Be Extended in Australia? | Alternative if Extension Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) | ✅ Yes (if no Condition 8503) | Apply for a new Subclass 600 Visa before expiry |
| eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) | ❌ No | Apply for a Subclass 600 or leave and reapply |
| ETA (Subclass 601) | ❌ No | Apply for a Subclass 600 or leave and reapply |
Understanding the extension rules for each type of Australian visitor visa is essential for ensuring compliance and avoiding visa breaches. If your parents hold a Subclass 600 Visa, an extension may be possible, but eVisitor 651 and ETA 601 cannot be extended. If an extension is not possible, parents must apply for a new visa while in Australia or leave and reapply.
To explore more migration options, visit My New Australian Life for expert advice and visa support.
Do you need help preparing a visa application for your parents? Our team at My New Australian Life can assist with document preparation, application submission, and expert migration advice. Contact us today!
