Processing times vary dramatically depending on the visa type, your passport country, and whether your application is complete. Here's the most current data for 2026.
Current Processing Times by Visa Type
Tourist Visa (Subclass 600)
- 75% of applications: 10–25 days
- 90% of applications: 20–40 days
- Peak seasons (Oct–Feb) may add 1–2 weeks
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
- 75% of applications: 20–35 days
- 90% of applications: 30–50 days
- Assessment Level 1 countries: Often processed faster (15–25 days)
- Important: Don't book flights until your visa is granted
Work Visa (Subclass 482)
- Short-Term stream: 15–30 days
- Medium-Term stream: 20–40 days
- Labour Agreement stream: Varies significantly
Working Holiday (Subclass 417/462)
- 75% of applications: 7–14 days
- 90% of applications: 14–28 days
- Often the fastest visa type
What Causes Delays?
Health Examinations
If your application triggers a health requirement, you'll need to complete a medical exam with an approved panel physician. This can add 2–6 weeks. Complete it early if you know it's required (applicants from certain countries or those staying 6+ months).
Additional Documents Requested
Case officers can request additional documents at any time. Common requests include: updated bank statements, detailed employment history, or clarification of your travel plans. Respond within the deadline or your application may be refused.
Character Checks
If your name matches records in security databases, processing may be paused for background checks. This is unavoidable but emphasizing your clean record helps.
How to Speed Up Your Application
- Submit a complete application — Missing documents are the #1 cause of delays. Use our document checklist to ensure nothing is missing.
- Get your health exam done early — Don't wait for the request. If you're from a country that typically requires it, do it upfront.
- Apply during off-peak periods — October to February is peak student visa season. Apply in March–June for faster processing.
- Respond immediately to any requests — Check your ImmiAccount and email daily after submitting.
- Use ImmiAccount, not paper — Online applications are processed faster than paper submissions.
Expedited Processing?
Australia doesn't offer a formal "premium" or "expedited" processing service for most visa types. The only way to speed things up is to submit a flawless, complete application the first time.
Checking Your Application Status
After submitting through ImmiAccount, you can check processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times
Note: This shows Global, not individual processing times. Your specific application may be faster or slower based on your circumstances.