Priority processing for Chinese visitors

From 15 March 2016 Chinese citizens are able to pay an additional $1000 to have their Subclass 600 Visitor visas in the Tourist or Business stream processed with priority consideration. In return for the additional fee the Department of Immigration will attempt to make a decision within a shortened timeframe (which has not currently been specified) but does not guarantee to do so. For example additional health or character checks may slow the processing. Currently the processing time standard is 1 month for high risk countries (which includes China). No refund will be available if there is no faster outcome despite paying the additional $1000.

This is a trial program as a result of recommendations in the Governments’ White paper on Developing Northern Australia. It is aimed at making Australia a more attractive visitor destination and if it is successful may be rolled out to additional countries.