Genuine visitor
Statutory definition
Clause 600.211 of Schedule 2 of the Migration Regulations 1994 requires the applicant for a Subclass 600 Tourist stream visa to be a genuine visitor. The Department assesses this by considering: the applicant's intended activities in Australia; their immigration history; any previous compliance with visa conditions; their personal and economic circumstances in their home country; their ties to their home country; and whether, having regard to all the circumstances, the applicant will genuinely visit temporarily.
Explanation
The genuine visitor assessment is the most frequently cited reason for visitor visa refusals. Applicants with strong ties to their home country (employment, family, property, bank accounts) are generally assessed as more likely to comply with visa conditions and depart on time. Conversely, applicants from countries with significant visa overstay rates, or who have close relatives with immigration status in Australia, may face additional scrutiny. Demonstrating the purpose of the visit, ability to fund the trip, and clear intention to return home is essential.