Transit Visa (subclass 771)

The Transit Visa (Subclass 771) is a free, temporary visa that allows eligible travellers to transit through Australia for up to 72 hours. It is designed for individuals who are en route to another country and need to pass through Australia, or for maritime crew members entering Australia by air to join a non-military ship.

This visa is ideal for short layovers, connecting flights, or crew transfers, and must be applied for online via ImmiAccount before travel.

Key Benefits of the Transit Visa (Subclass 771)

• Free of Charge: No visa application fee applies
• Short-Term Stay: Stay in Australia for up to 72 hours.
• Maritime Crew Access: Crew members can enter Australia to join a ship within 5 days
• Single Entry: Valid for one entry per visa grant
• Online Application: Apply easily via the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount portal

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Transit Visa (Subclass 771), you must meet the following requirements:

• Genuine Transit Purpose
  You must be transiting through Australia to another country with a confirmed onward flight within 72 hours
• Valid Passport
  Your passport must be valid and recognised for entry into your destination country
• Health & Character Requirements
  You must meet Australian health and character standards, including police clearance if required
• No Work or Study Intentions
  You must not intend to work or study in Australia during your transit
• Visa for Final Destination
  If required, you must hold a valid visa for the country you are travelling to
• Special Cases for Maritime Crew
  Maritime Crew Visa holders must join their ship within 5 days of arrival

Visa Conditions

Once granted, the Transit Visa comes with specific conditions:

• Maximum Stay of 72 Hours
  You must leave Australia within 72 hours of arrival
• Single Entry Only
  You must apply for a new visa each time you transit through Australia
• No Paid Work or Study
  You cannot work or study while in Australia on this visa
• Airport Transit Zone Restrictions
  You must remain in the transit zone unless you hold a valid visa. Exiting the zone (e.g., to collect baggage) requires a Transit Visa
• Airport-Specific Rules
  Some airports (e.g., Sydney, Cairns, Gold Coast) require a Transit Visa for overnight stays

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)