How Much Is a 3 Month Tourist Visa to Australia 2026

Quick answer

From the UAE, a 3-month Australian visitor visa (subclass 600) costs AUD 190 (about AED 470) if you apply online. You may also pay an extra service charge of AED 80–120 when using VFS Global in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The visa is valid for 3 months from the date of entry and can be granted for single or multiple entries.

Why UAE residents apply for this visa

Many expats and tourists in the UAE want to visit family, attend events, or enjoy Australia’s coast and cities. A 3-month visa covers most short holidays while giving flexibility if plans change. Because the UAE passport is strong, approval rates are high when documents are complete.

Current fees and currency breakdown (2026)

The base fee is set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and does not change often. Here is the typical breakdown you will see at checkout:

• AUD 190 – official visa application charge
• AED 80–120 – VFS Global service fee (Dubai & Abu Dhabi centres)
• 0–50 – optional courier return of passport

At today’s exchange rate this totals roughly AED 550–620. Always verify the live rate on the official site before you pay.

Step-by-step application from the UAE

1. Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
2. Fill in the visitor visa (subclass 600) form and select “Tourist stream”.
3. Upload colour scans of your passport, UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and proof of funds.
4. Pay the fee by credit card; save the receipt.
5. Book a VFS appointment if you prefer biometrics over the online photo option.
6. Wait for the email decision—usually 15–30 calendar days.

Documents UAE applicants commonly need

• Valid passport with six months validity beyond your planned return.
• Copy of UAE residence visa and Emirates ID.
• Bank statements for the last three months showing at least AUD 5,000 (AED 12,400) available funds.
• Leave approval letter from your employer or sponsor.
• Confirmed return flight and hotel bookings (or host invitation letter).
• Travel insurance that covers Australia, minimum AED 50,000 medical.

Common mistakes that delay approval

• Submitting blurry scans or missing the reverse side of the Emirates ID.
• Showing just enough money for the flight instead of daily living costs.
• Applying too close to travel dates—allow at least four weeks.
• Forgetting to mention previous visits to Australia or New Zealand.

Visa duration and entry rules

The 3-month visa is counted from the date you first enter Australia. You may stay up to three months in one visit or split the time over multiple entries if granted a multi-entry visa. Overstaying by even one day can trigger future entry bans, so set calendar reminders for your exit flight.

Tips to keep costs low

• Apply online yourself; avoid agents who add AED 300–500 in service fees.
• Use a multi-entry visa if you plan two trips within 12 months—same fee, better value.
• Book accommodation that offers free cancellation in case of visa delay.
• Check for seasonal flight deals from DXB or AUH to Sydney or Melbourne.

Comparison: Australia vs other popular destinations

Compared with the Schengen short-stay visa (AED 420) or the UK visitor visa (AED 580), Australia sits in the middle price-wise. Processing is faster than the UK and similar to Schengen, but you must apply individually rather than as a family group. The biometric requirement is lighter than the US visa process.

Key takeaway

Budget around AED 600 all-inclusive for a 3-month Australian tourist visa from the UAE in 2026. Start your application at least a month before travel, keep digital copies of every document, and double-check the current fee on the official website the day you apply. Safe travels!