New Mandatory Online Application Process for Australian eVisitor Visa Commencing September 2026
Summary
The Australian Government has registered new legislation, LIN 26/061, which mandates that all Subclass 651 (eVisitor) visa applications must be submitted using "Form 1362 (Internet)" and lodged exclusively online. This change is effective from 29 September 2026, standardizing the application process for consistency and efficiency. It ensures that all future eVisitor applicants utilize a uniform digital platform, streamlining submissions for both the government and travelers.
The Australian Government has formalized new application arrangements for the Subclass 651 (eVisitor) visa, which falls under the Visitor (Class TV) visa class. Effective from 29 September 2026, the new instrument, Migration (Arrangements for eVisitor Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/061), stipulates that all valid eVisitor visa applications must be submitted using "Form 1362 (Internet)" and lodged exclusively as an online application. This regulatory update solidifies the Department of Home Affairs' commitment to a digital-first approach, removing any ambiguity regarding acceptable submission methods for this popular visa subclass and mandating a consistent, fully online process.
For prospective eVisitor visa applicants, this change primarily means confirming that their application is made through the official Australian immigration website using the designated online form. While many applicants likely already use this method, the new instrument removes any possibility of alternative or paper-based submissions, making online lodgement universal and compulsory. This standardization aims to enhance processing efficiency and reduce administrative burdens for both applicants and the Department of Home Affairs, reinforcing Australia's broader push towards fully digital immigration services.
Background
Australia has progressively moved towards digital visa applications across many categories over the last decade, with online lodgement becoming the norm for most visitor and temporary visas. This new instrument reinforces and formally mandates this existing digital trend for the eVisitor subclass, ensuring full online compliance.
Who This Affects
- All future applicants for the Australian Subclass 651 eVisitor visa are directly affected, as they must now exclusively use the specified online form and lodgement method.
- Travelers from eligible European countries who traditionally apply for eVisitor visas will experience a formalized digital application process, potentially streamlining their experience if they were previously unsure of the preferred method.
- Immigration agents and advisors will need to ensure their clients are fully aware of and compliant with the mandatory online lodgement requirement for eVisitor visas from the commencement date.
What You Should Do Now
- Plan to complete your Subclass 651 eVisitor visa application entirely online using the official Form 1362 (Internet) well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Familiarize yourself with the Department of Home Affairs website and the specific requirements for online lodgement to avoid any delays or errors.
- Ensure all supporting documents are ready to be uploaded digitally, as no paper-based submissions will be accepted for this visa subclass after the commencement date.
Key Takeaway
From September 29, 2026, all Australian eVisitor (Subclass 651) visa applications must be submitted exclusively online using the designated digital form.
Source: Read official article on Migration Alliance (AU)
Publisher note — NaviBound summarizes cited third-party sources for convenience only. Confirm all requirements with the linked official announcement and qualified professionals. Not legal advice. Display date: Sep 29, 2026. Editorial policy