Hi all.

A bit of info please. I've asked these2 questions, via e-mail, to the Australian embassy in Bangkok as well as their nominated agent, VFS Australia Visa HelpdeskVFS. Both replied in great length but didn't answer the questions.

I'd like to take my Thai wife to Australia for about 2 weeks to meet my elderly mum. Tourist visa. I have been residing on an extension based on retirement in the kingdom for the past 2 years. Will shortly convert to marriage extension.

The questions: 1. Approximately how long before intended travel should the application be lodged ?

2. Once the visa has been granted, is there a specific time travel has to be taken ?

Any info or advice will be greatly appreciated.

Cheers..... Mal.

1. You should allow at least one month to get the visa https://www.border.gov.au/about/access-accountability/service-standards/visitor-visa-processing-times

2. The visa validity period varies, and is at the discretion of the case officer who processes the application. Generally, the visa will be valid for three months stay and needs to be used within a year, but they may restrict validity if the case officer so decides. It's important to put your (actual) intended dates of travel on the application form

3. No need to travel to (or pay for) VFS. Thai passport holders can apply online for a tourist (visitor) visa here: https://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Visa-1/600-/Visitor-e600-visa-online-applications

Thanks for that. Much appreciated. Mal.