Subclass 601 vs 600 – Key Differences Explained
Choosing between Subclass 601 (ETA) and Subclass 600 (Visitor Visa) depends on your nationality, trip length, and travel purpose. The ETA is faster and cheaper but has shorter stay limits. The Visitor Visa costs more and takes longer to process but allows longer stays. This guide breaks down all the key differences.
For an overview of the ETA itself, see our ETA Australia guide.
What Is Subclass 601 (ETA)?
The Subclass 601 is the Electronic Travel Authority. It is:
- An electronic visa linked to your passport
- Available to citizens of 30+ eligible countries
- Costs AUD 20
- Processes in minutes
- Allows stays of up to 3 months per visit
- Valid for 12 months with multiple entries
The ETA is applied for through the AustralianETA app and is the fastest way to get Australian visa approval.
For full details, see our Subclass 601 guide.
What Is Subclass 600 (Visitor Visa)?
The Subclass 600 is a traditional Visitor Visa. It is:
- A stamped or labeled visa (though some grants are electronic)
- Available to citizens of all countries
- Costs AUD 190+ (tourist stream)
- Processes in 20-30 days (standard)
- Allows stays of 3, 6, or 12 months
- Can be single or multiple entry
The Visitor Visa requires a more detailed application with supporting documents.
Cost Comparison
| Feature | Subclass 601 (ETA) | Subclass 600 (Visitor) |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | AUD 20 | AUD 190+ |
| Processing fee | None | Included |
| Total cost | AUD 20 | AUD 190+ |
| Refundable? | No | No |
The ETA is approximately 90% cheaper than the Visitor Visa. For budget-conscious travelers from ETA-eligible countries, the ETA is the clear choice for short visits.
Processing Time Comparison
| Feature | Subclass 601 (ETA) | Subclass 600 (Visitor) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard processing | Minutes | 20-30 days |
| Additional checks | 24-48 hours | Up to 60 days |
| Expedited option | N/A | Available (extra fee) |
The ETA processes approximately 1,000x faster than the standard Visitor Visa. If you need to travel soon, the ETA is the only practical option.
Stay Duration Comparison
| Feature | Subclass 601 (ETA) | Subclass 600 (Visitor) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum stay | No minimum | No minimum |
| Maximum stay | 3 months | 3, 6, or 12 months |
| Extensions | Not available | Possible (apply before expiry) |
Choose the Visitor Visa if you need to stay longer than 3 months. The ETA does not allow extensions – you must leave Australia and can re-enter for another 3 months.
Eligibility Differences
Subclass 601 (ETA):
- Limited to passport holders from 30+ eligible countries
- Includes US, UK, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and select European nations
Subclass 600 (Visitor Visa):
- Available to citizens of all countries
- No nationality restrictions
If your country is not on the ETA eligibility list, you must apply for the Visitor Visa.
When to Choose Subclass 600 Over 601
Choose the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) when:
- You need to stay longer than 3 months – The ETA limits each visit to 90 days
- Your country is not ETA-eligible – The Visitor Visa is available to all nationalities
- You have been denied an ETA – The Visitor Visa allows for more detailed applications
- You need work rights – Some Visitor Visa streams can include work conditions
- You want a visa label in your passport – Some travelers prefer physical proof
Choose the ETA (Subclass 601) when:
- You are from an eligible country – Faster and cheaper
- Your trip is under 3 months – Perfect for tourism and short business trips
- You need quick approval – Minutes vs weeks
- You want to save money – AUD 20 vs AUD 190+
Subclass 601 vs 600 – FAQ
What is the main difference between 601 and 600?
The 601 (ETA) is faster, cheaper, and electronic. The 600 (Visitor Visa) allows longer stays but costs more and takes longer to process.
Which is cheaper – ETA or Visitor Visa?
The ETA costs AUD 20. The Visitor Visa costs AUD 190+. The ETA is significantly cheaper.
Can I switch from 601 to 600 while in Australia?
No. You must apply for the Visitor Visa from outside Australia or before your ETA expires.
Which is better for tourism?
For trips under 3 months from eligible countries, the ETA is better – faster processing and lower cost.
Can I work on either visa?
Neither the ETA nor the standard Visitor Visa permits work. Specific work visas are required.
Is 600 more likely to be approved than 601?
Not necessarily. Both have eligibility requirements. The 600 allows for more supporting documentation if you have complex circumstances.
Can I have both visas at the same time?
Generally, only one visa can be active at a time. Applying for a Visitor Visa while holding an ETA may cancel the ETA.
Do I need 601 or 600 for transit?
The ETA (601) covers transit purposes. The Visitor Visa is not needed for transit.
