APEC CARD For the holders of Passports from some countries (participating in APEC), they may apply to their own government for a Business Travel Card entitling entry to all APEC countries.

 

ETA. For the holders of Passports from some countries (reciprocal arrangements) it can be as easy as applying on the internet (there will be some further checks by the Dept of immigration in that process before grant). Note 85% of visitors visas will be in this category. Internet applications can be made for these.

 

TOURIST VISA Others can apply through Australian Immigration authorities located in their country for short stay tourist visas,  business visas for 3 months. There are Long Stay versions of these visas that can be sought. Short Stay versions of some may be extended in certain circumstances in a relatively easy process. (Some countries of origin are subject to organized tour conditions owing to a preponderance of unlawful overstaying by previous visitors form that country.)   BUSINESS (SHORT STAY) VISAS Australian Government Policy is that businessmen are to be encouraged to first visit Australia to examine the feasibility, or even trial, any planned business in Australia. Holding an ETA visa may limit options or processes for progressing to temporary visas and permanent visas. FAMILY VISITOR NETWORK Note that there are other avenues, some involving sponsorship by family and business. There is an emphasis now on the family in Australia in the sponsorship of relatives overseas. The family in Australia can commence the process at the Department of Immigration in Australia.

WORKING HOLIDAY VISA For those between the ages of 18 and 30 holding passports from some countries, with reciprocal arrangements for Australians, the Working Holiday Visa. Over 104,000 of these are issued annually. There is an internet application facility for these. It is open to applicants also who are married but do not have dependent children. To ensure that it is treated as a working holiday the visa holder is limited to a maximum of 180 days with any one employer regardless of the intensity of the work (full or part time). Employers are also expected to be geographically diverse.  There is the ability to extend the working holiday by 12 months if the visa holder includes 3 months fruit picking in regional Australia during their stay.

Special Note: Visitor visas are the fore-shot of the formation of many long term strategies for permanent residence planning. The type of visa can impact on later choices to some extent. A quick review with HALLMARK IMMIGRATION of intentions is productive, particularly the business (short stay) and the working holiday strategy prior to application or the earliest point of arrival. For family tourist visitors assistance can be provided with letters of invitation and explanation of bonds.