What official sources say
The Australian High Commission (UK) FAQ states there is no requirement to have a return ticket on arrival. It explains that border officers need to be satisfied visitors intend to, and have the means to, depart before the visa expires, and it advises against booking flights before the visa is granted.
The Home Affairs page ‘Applying for a visitor visa’ tells applicants to outline their reason for travelling and their plans, and says they may want to include an itinerary.
Good to know for Australia
- The official advice we found says not to book flights before the visa is granted, so a reservation is the safer way to show plans.
- The embassy FAQ is undated, so check Home Affairs for current rules.
Step by step: using a flight reservation
- Check the official checklist for your application and ask your application centre what they accept.
- Search flights on Visa Flight Pass with your real route and dates.
- Choose a flight and click Book for Visa proof. Only flights the airline lets us hold are offered.
- Enter each traveller exactly as in the passport.
- Pay the service fee and receive the reservation PDF by email.
- Attach the PDF unaltered to your application.
Timing
Airline holds are short, typically from about a day to a few days. Apply while the reservation is still valid, or ask your application centre whether it must be active on your appointment date.
Limits and honesty
A reservation is not a ticket: you cannot fly on it. Use real names and never edit the PDF. Requirements differ between embassies, consulates and application centres, and some ask for a paid ticket. No document guarantees a visa or entry. Always confirm against the checklist for your own application.
Search your flight
Find a flight to Australia that can be held, and get your reservation by email.
Search flightsSources
- Australian High Commission FAQ - No return ticket requirement; do not book flights before the visa
- Applying for a visitor visa (Home Affairs) - Itinerary suggested