Business Visitor Visa Updates
Australia has expanded business opportunities for individuals from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste by extending the duration of their business visitor visas. Effective from April 1, 2024, applicants can now receive a business visitor visa valid for up to 5 years, an increase from the previous maximum of 3 years. This change was announced by Prime Minister Albanese during the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit. The extension aims to enhance trade, investment, and interpersonal connections, as well as create job opportunities.
With the Visitor (subclass 600) visa, holders can stay in Australia for up to 3 months per visit and make multiple trips over the 5-year period. The visa allows them to:
Negotiate contracts
Make general business or job inquiries
Attend conferences or trade fairs
Participate in official government visits
Additionally, Australia will extend the 10-year Frequent Traveler stream visa to ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste later this year. Myanmar is not included in these updates.
These changes are part of Australia’s efforts to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia, as detailed in the "Invested: Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040." They also complement Australia's Migration Strategy by increasing international mobility, bolstering regional relationships, and enhancing community connections with ASEAN countries.
