We want you to get your visa application right first time. It's faster for you, and simpler for us. So, take time to read the fine print - it really does pay off!

All visa applications have to be completed and paid for online.  Demand for visas and biometric appointments varies throughout the year, but the peak time is January - June.

With effect from January 2009 applicants in Australia & New Zealand who apply online MUST make their payment online.  If you are unable to pay online, you will need to lodge your application and have your biometric data taken in Canberra.  Should you opt to do this you can collect an application form from our Visa Section in Canberra, or call 1902 941 600 (charges apply) to request a form by post.  When you are ready to submit your application, you should call 1902 941 555 (charges apply) to make an appointment to visit our Visa Section in Canberra.  Alternatively call into the Visa Section during our general enquiries opening times to make an appointment.  At the appointment you will have your finger-scans and digital photograph taken and submit your application.  It is essential you bring with you all supporting documentation. Our Canberra office is the only location where you can lodge your application in person.

Step by Step Guide

Follow the instructions below when applying for your visa. Failing to follow them could result in delays, or even the refusal of your application.

1. Carefully read all the information relating to the category of visa you are seeking. If you don't provide full supporting documentation, your application may be refused.  This is particularly important for all applications made under the Points Based System as documentation must meet stringent requirements.
2. Complete the online application and pay the fee by credit card. Save the application and print off a copy. You will be prompted to book an appointment online to have your biometric data taken. This is a simple process of submitting electronic fingerprint scans and having a digital photo taken.
3. Book an appointment to submit your biometric data in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane or Canberra. Print off the appointment letter that has been emailed to you.  
4. On the day of your appointment, go along to the office you have chosen with your printed appointment letter, application form, current passport, and submit your biometric data. Your biometric data will not be accepted if you have not made an online appointment.
5. Sign the printed copy of your online application form, (All applications MUST be signed or they will be returned).
6. Enclose a recent passport photo.
7. Make sure the relevant appendix is attached for all PBS applications.
8. Enclose all your supporting documentation and a prepaid self-addressed return envelope for the return of your documentation.  We recommend using a trackable service such as Australia Express Post Platinum or a courier service such as Australian Air Express, but regret that due to staff resource constraints we CANNOT accept Registered Post envelopes.  Failure to enclose a self-addressed prepaid return envelope will result in delay whilst we request one from you.  Please note that we are unable to change the address on your envelope once submitted.
9.  Send your application along with all your supporting documentation, (remember to enclose a self addressed return courier envelope) to:
British High Commission - Visa Section,  
Locked Bag 5010
Piccadilly House,
39 Brindabella Circuit,
Canberra Airport,
ACT 2609
10. Applications will be processed in the order they are received. Make sure you allow enough time for the application process to be completed before you make any travel plans.  We strongly advise that you do not purchase a non-refundable air ticket before receiving your visa.  We do not accept responsibility for any financial loss and we do not fast track applications solely due to planned date of travel.

The Visa Section in Canberra is the only office that issues visas. Our Consulates and Honorary Consuls located outside of Canberra are unable to provide you with application forms and are unable to assist you with immigration enquiries/requests for information.

If you are living outside Australia or New Zealand and want to lodge your visa application you must contact your nearest British High Commission, Embassy, Consulate or Visa Application Centre.