Australia, a land of astonishing beauty and opportunities, beckons Nigerians with its myriad attractions, world-class education institutions, and high-quality products imported to Nigeria. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the breathtaking Blue Mountains National Park, Australia offers a wealth of experiences for tourists and potential residents alike.


Australia's reputation as a global hub for tertiary education is well-deserved. Many Nigerians have been drawn to its shores in pursuit of higher education and specialized training, a testament to the country's academic excellence.


With such enticements, it's no surprise that Nigerians often inquire about the process of securing an Australian visa. In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify this process, shedding light on the intricate details and costs associated with obtaining an Australian visa.


Before we delve into the application process, it's crucial to understand the various visa categories available. Australia offers Business Visas, Family Visas, and Tourist Visas to cater to diverse needs.


One particularly convenient option for visa processing, irrespective of your current location, is the Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) visa. This visa stream includes an AUD20 service charge, simplifying the application process significantly. The application procedure varies depending on your location. If you are in Australia, you can apply for the Tourist Stream of the Visitor Visa online, provided your current visa doesn't carry condition 8503.


However, if you are outside Australia, specific passport holders, primarily from the People's Republic of China, may apply online for the Visitor Visa (subclass 600) Frequent Traveller stream visa when applying from China.


For Nigerians, all visa applications are processed through the Australian High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa.


Now, let's turn our attention to the essential requirements for obtaining an Australian Visa. The following documents and information are imperative:


- An original, signed Nigerian passport with a minimum validity of six months.

- Passport-type photographs.

- Photocopies of your passport and ID card.

- Proof of your status.

- A well-detailed itinerary.

- A comprehensive medical check report.

- Bank statements reflecting your financial capability.

- An employment letter to establish your employment status.

- Confirmed hotel reservations for the duration of your stay.


Additionally, biometrics, including fingerprints and a digital photograph, are typically required, unless you are exempted. You can find more information on biometric requirements on the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website.


For assistance with your application and to address any queries, you can schedule an appointment with the TLC contact centre Australian Visa Application Centre. Their office is conveniently located at Etiebets Place, 21 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way in Ikeja, Lagos.


Once your application is submitted, you'll need to exercise patience while awaiting a response from the visa office. Processing times vary depending on the type of visa you've applied for:


- Tourist visas typically take between 20 to 33 days.

- Business visas usually require 9 to 20 days for processing.

- Frequent travellers may see their visas processed within 5 to 18 days.

- Sponsored family visas, however, necessitate more time, ranging from 50 to 70 days.


It's important to note that Australian and New Zealand citizens do not require a visa to enter Australia.


Now, let's talk finances. The cost of an Australian visa can vary, depending on the category. Here's a brief breakdown:


For Student Visas:

- Base application charge: AUD560.

- Additional applicant charge (18 and over): AUD420.

- Additional applicant charge under 18: AUD140.

- Subsequent temporary application charge: AUD700.


Students applying under specific circumstances, such as secondary exchange students or those enrolled in courses approved under a student's training scheme, may be exempt from the base application charge.




Temporary work visas entail the following charges:

- Base Application Charge: AUD280.

- Additional Applicant charge (18 and over): AUD280.

- Additional applicant charge (18 and under): AUD70.


Keep in mind that when making payments online, a surcharge rate is applicable depending on your chosen payment portal:

- Visa and MasterCard: 0.98%.

- American Express and JCB: 1.4%.

- Diners Club International: 1.99%.

- China Union Pay: 1.90%.

- PayPal: 1.00%.


It's worth noting that visa fees may fluctuate over time. The cost of your visa can be influenced by the date your application is received. In cases where there is a price increase between the date of application lodgment and receipt, you may be required to pay the new application charge.


There are select situations where visa application fees may be waived. These include individuals acting as representatives for foreign governments or individuals specified by the Minister in a legislative instrument. Generally, basic application charges range from AUD140 to AUD1020, depending on the visa type.


For Nigerians residing outside their homeland, seeking to visit Australia for tourism or business purposes, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is a seamless solution available online 24/7. An ETA grants holders the freedom to travel to Australia as frequently as needed within a 12-month validity period, with each visit lasting up to three months (90 days).


Should you wish to check the progress of your visa application, contact the Visa and Immigration Section at the Australian High Commission in Pretoria via email at immigration.pretoria@immi.gov.au. Rest assured, you can expect a response within 48 hours.


While the process of applying for an Australian visa may seem daunting, this guide has been meticulously crafted to provide you with the information needed to navigate it with ease. Australia awaits, with its wonders and opportunities, and securing a visa is the first step on your exciting journey.