Which are the necessary documents to travel to Australia?

Australia

Do you dream of discovering Australia's beaches, natural parks, and major cities? Before flying to this country, it is crucial to prepare your trip by ensuring you have the necessary documents. From your passport and visa to your driving licence, there are many details to take into account. Having everything in order is essential to avoid any setbacks and enjoy a worry-free experience.

In this article, we explain in detail the steps to follow to obtain the essential documents, so you can travel with peace of mind and make the most of your stay. Follow our guide to properly prepare for your Australian adventure!

What documents do I need to travel to Australia?

1. Visa

Australia, famous for its spectacular scenery, is also known for its strict immigration policy. Even for tourist trips, it is mandatory to have the correct visa. Among the most common options, two types stand out: the eVisitor (subclass 651) and the Visitor Visa (subclass 600). CarJet  explains their differences and how to apply for them.

The eVisitor

The eVisitor (subclass 651) is a free option for citizens of the European Union and other selected countries. This visa is ideal for tourist or business stays of a maximum of 3 months per entry, within a total period of 12 months.

• For whom? This visa is reserved for eligible passport holders, mainly from European countries.
• Free and fast: The eVisitor is free of charge and can be applied for online. The reply usually arrives within a few days. The application is made through ImmiAccount by completing a simple form with your passport and travel information.

Visa 600

The Visitor Visa (subclass 600) is designed for those wishing to visit Australia for tourism, family, or business purposes. It offers great flexibility, allowing stays of up to 12 months, depending on the approved conditions.

• Who is it for? This visa is available to citizens of any country, including those who are not eligible for the eVisitor.
• Duration and cost: The Visa 600 can be granted for 3, 6, or 12 months, with an initial cost of 150 AUD (€90), which may vary depending on the requested duration and conditions.
• How to obtain it? You must apply online through the official Australian immigration website.

The key difference lies in eligibility and length of stay. If you are eligible for the eVisitor and plan a short stay, this free visa is the best option. On the other hand, the Visa 600 is more suitable if you do not qualify for the eVisitor or if you wish to stay in Australia for more than 3 months. Additional documents such as a return ticket, proof of funds, or a detailed itinerary may be required.

Tips for a successful application

Completing your visa application correctly is a key step in ensuring it is approved without any problems. Be sure to provide accurate and complete information in all fields of the form.

It is also important to prepare the necessary documents in advance, such as a copy of your passport, your detailed itinerary, and proof of funds, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Finally, apply well in advance, preferably 2-4 weeks before your trip, to avoid last-minute hiccups and ensure a smooth process.

2. Your Passport

To travel to Australia, your ID card will not be enough. You must carry your passport with you. Make sure it meets the requirements of the immigration authorities to avoid problems. Here are the main conditions that your travel document must meet:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry to Australia. Although this requirement is not always compulsory, many airlines and transit countries require it, so it's better to be safe.
• The passport number must match the number registered on your visa, whether it is an eVisitor or a Visa 600. If you renew your passport after you have obtained your visa, either because it has been lost, expired, or damaged, you will need to update the information on your application to avoid problems during immigration control.

3. Driving licence

If you plan to hire a car in Australia during your stay, it is essential to know the conditions related to your driving licence. CarJet explains what you need to know to drive legally in Australia.

International visitors can drive in Australia with their foreign driving licence valid for up to 3 months, as long as the licence is in English. However, if your licence is not in English, it would be advisable to obtain a certified translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is an official and internationally accepted standard translation. This is especially useful in case complications arise or if the original permit is not fully understandable to local authorities.

Tips when hiring a car in Australia

If you wish to rent a car during your stay, most rental agencies in Australia will accept a foreign driver's licence, but there are some conditions to be aware of:

• Minimum age: The minimum age to hire a car in Australia is generally 21, although this may vary from agency to agency. Some agencies may charge a surcharge for drivers under the age of 25.
• Valid licence: Your licence must be valid and have been issued for at least 12 months.
• Other documents: Some agencies also require a credit card in the driver's name, as well as proof of residence in your home country.

In all cases, it is recommended that you carefully read the terms and conditions of each car rental offer before renting a car. This way, you can be sure that you meet all the conditions and travel with peace of mind in Australia.

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