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Transit Visa (Subclass 771) Overview

The Transit visa, Subclass 771, is a short-stay Australia Visa for travellers passing through Australia on their way to another destination, allowing a stay of up to 72 hours. It is designed strictly for genuine transit purposes, such as a layover between international flights, and does not permit engagement in business, work, or extended tourism activities. Applicants must hold confirmed onward travel arrangements showing they will leave Australia within the 72-hour window. Travellers who qualify for the ETA or eVisitor for a genuine visit, or who wish to stay longer than 72 hours, should apply for the appropriate visitor visa category instead. Approval is decided solely by the Department of Home Affairs.

Transit Visa (Subclass 771) Fees

Fee TypeGovernment Fee (AUD)
Visa Application Charge$0

The Transit visa is generally free to apply for. Information may vary depending on individual circumstances; confirm current details at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

Transit Visa (Subclass 771) Processing Time

Processing time for the Australia Transit Visa is typically fast, given the visa’s narrow, short-stay purpose. Because it is intended purely to facilitate onward travel, straightforward applications with confirmed flight itineraries are usually processed quickly. However, applicants should still apply well in advance of their travel date, since any request for additional information or documentation can extend the timeline. As with all Australia Visa categories, processing times are published as estimates on the Department of Home Affairs website and can vary with demand.

Required Documents Checklist

Valid Passport
Confirmed Onward Travel Itinerary (showing departure from Australia within 72 hours)
Valid Visa for the Final Destination Country (if required)
Completed Online Application via ImmiAccount
Response to Health and Character Declaration Questions

Requirements may vary depending on nationality and individual circumstances.

Transit Visa (Subclass 771) Application Process

Confirm your layover in Australia will not exceed 72 hours.
Create an ImmiAccount and start a new Transit visa application.
Complete the online form with your travel and passport details.
Attach your confirmed onward travel itinerary.
Submit the application; no fee is generally required.
Wait for a decision through your ImmiAccount.
If approved, travel to Australia with your visa grant notice and onward tickets.

Important Notes

Visa approval depends solely on the decision of the Department of Home Affairs.
The Transit visa strictly limits your stay to 72 hours.
This visa does not permit business activities, work, or extended tourism.
Confirmed onward travel arrangements are essential to a successful application.
Travellers wanting to stay longer or engage in tourism should apply for a Visitor visa (Subclass 600), ETA, or eVisitor instead, depending on eligibility.
Information may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Why Choose Shivansh Consultants

While the Transit visa is designed to be simple, confirming whether it’s the right category for your itinerary, or whether a Visitor visa would better suit a longer stopover with sightseeing plans, is important before you apply. Shivansh Consultants offers guidance on selecting the correct Australia Visa category for your travel plans. Our personalised guidance helps ensure your onward travel documentation is complete and consistent. With experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance across all Australia Visa categories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Australia Transit Visa (Subclass 771) cost?
The Transit visa is generally free to apply for, with no Visa Application Charge in most cases.
How long can I stay in Australia on a Transit visa?
The Transit visa allows a maximum stay of 72 hours, strictly for the purpose of transiting to another destination.
Can I do sightseeing or business activities on a Transit visa?
No. The Transit visa is intended purely for genuine transit purposes and does not permit business, work, or extended tourism activities.
What documents are required for a Transit visa?
Key documents include a valid passport, confirmed onward travel itinerary showing departure within 72 hours, and any visa required for your final destination.
What if my layover is longer than 72 hours?
If your stay in Australia will exceed 72 hours or you want to do tourism activities, you should apply for the appropriate Visitor visa (Subclass 600), ETA, or eVisitor instead.