In a move to strengthen regional ties and support frequent travel, Australia has enhanced the Frequent Traveller Stream of its Visitor (Subclass 600) visa. These changes, effective from 7 December 2024, simplify access and widen eligibility for nationals across the Asia-Pacific region.
What’s New in the Frequent Traveller Stream?
Thanks to the Migration (Arrangements for Visitor (Class FA) Visa Applications) Amendment (LIN 24/084) Instrument 2024, the key updates include:
- Expanded Eligibility: Previously limited to Chinese citizens residing in China, the Frequent Traveller Stream now welcomes passport holders from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, China, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor‑Leste, and Vietnam.Migration AllianceAgape Henry CruxRocket & Ash
- Location Flexibility: Applications can now be lodged from outside Australia, with no requirement to be in the PRC.Migration AllianceAgape Henry Crux
- Long-Term Multiple Entry Visas: Eligible applicants may receive a 10‑year visa, allowing multiple entries, with each stay capped at 3 months per visit.Migration AllianceImmigration News AustraliaSBS
These shifts underscore Australia’s commitment to facilitating tourism, business exchanges, and stronger people-to-people links in the region.
Why It Matters
The expanded FTS opens up streamlined travel paths for professionals, frequent visitors, and regional travellers—reducing the need to reapply each time and fostering ongoing engagement with Australia.Absolute ImmigrationImmigration News Australia
Hands-On Perspective
A recent Reddit user shared their experience applying from the Philippines:
“Lodge Date: January 29 … Granted: February 12… Documents included bank statements, employment proof, travel history…”Reddit
Another user celebrated the end of routine applications:
“They finally expanded the FTS to include most ASEAN countries… Looks like I can finally bid farewell to yearly visa applications.”Reddit
