Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) - Approved Destination Status (ADS) Stream

The Approved Destination Status (ADS) stream facilitates organized group tourism from China to Australia through approved travel agents, offering streamlined processing for tour groups.

Stream Highlights

This stream is exclusively for Chinese passport holders traveling in organized tour groups with government-approved agents.

Who Should Apply

• Chinese passport holders from mainland China
• Tour group participants (minimum 2 people)
• Package tour travelers through approved agents
• Organized tourism groups with set itineraries
• First-time or repeat Australian visitors in groups

Understanding ADS

Approved Destination Status is a bilateral tourism arrangement between Australia and China, allowing:

• Simplified visa processing
• Group tour facilitation
• Tourism promotion
• Controlled visitor management

ADS vs Tourist Stream

ADS Stream Advantages: ✓ Faster processing (10-15 days)
✓ Higher approval rate (98%)
✓ Agent handles application
✓ Simplified documentation
✓ Group support throughout

ADS Stream Limitations: ✗ Must stay with tour group
✗ No independent travel
✗ Fixed itinerary only
✗ Chinese citizens only
✗ Single entry only

Core Requirements

Key Requirements: ✓ Chinese citizenship
✓ Mainland China residence
✓ Organized tour group
✓ ADS approved agent
✓ Minimum 2 people
✓ Stay with group entire trip

The ADS Agent System

Approved Agents are:

• Government-approved in China
• Registered with Australian authorities
• Responsible for group compliance
• Experienced in Australian tours
• Monitored for performance

Agent Responsibilities

• Screen tour participants
• Prepare visa applications
• Submit group applications
• Supervise tour groups
• Ensure timely departure
• Handle emergencies

Tour Requirements

Minimum Standards: All ADS tours must include:

• Return airfare
• Accommodation throughout
• Transportation in Australia
• Tour guide services
• Main meals
• Key attractions

During Your Stay

Must Do: ✓ Stay with tour group
✓ Follow itinerary
✓ Attend scheduled activities
✓ Use group accommodation
✓ Respect tour rules
✓ Depart with group

Cannot Do: ✗ Leave group independently
✗ Change accommodation
✗ Extend stay alone
✗ Visit non-itinerary places
✗ Work or study
✗ Apply for other visas

Tips for Success

Choosing Tours:

1. Research agents thoroughly
2. Compare itineraries carefully
3. Check inclusions and exclusions
4. Read reviews from past travelers
5. Verify ADS approval status

During Application:

1. Provide accurate information
2. Submit documents promptly
3. Respond to agent quickly
4. Be honest about travel history
5. Declare any issues upfront

Common Scenarios

✅ Acceptable:

• Shopping during free time
• Optional tour activities
• Dining at tour-approved restaurants
• Photographing attractions
• Buying souvenirs

❌ Not Acceptable:

• Visiting friends independently
• Staying extra days alone
• Skipping tour activities
• Changing hotels
• Independent travel

Finding ADS Agents

Locate approved agents through:

• Chinese tourism authorities
• Australian embassy website
• Major Chinese travel agencies
• Tourism industry associations

Typical Itineraries

Common routes include:

• East Coast: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
• Classics: Sydney, Cairns, Gold Coast
• Extended: Add Perth, Adelaide
• Special Interest: Wine regions, nature tours

Cost Breakdown

Visa Fee: $195 AUD per person

Tour Package Costs (Typical):

• 7-day tour: $2,000-3,000 USD
• 10-day tour: $3,000-4,500 USD
• 14-day tour: $4,000-6,000 USD

Includes visa fee, flights, accommodation, meals

Alternative Options

If ADS doesn’t suit you, consider:

Tourist Stream for:

• Independent travel
• Flexible itineraries
• Longer stays
• Family visits
• Multiple entries